Remote Debugging Integrated Circuit Devices via Encrypted JTAG Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuit devices face challenges in remote debugging due to exposure of intellectual property (IP) to unauthorized access during debugging processes, leading to delays and increased costs, as existing methods require physical presence or shipping of devices for error resolution.
Innovation Solution
A system that enables remote debugging through a hardware layer with encryption/decryption machines and a software layer using Web Socket solutions and relay servers, creating a secure channel over public networks to transmit encrypted JTAG commands, allowing secure, real-time communication and authentication without physical attendance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the integrated circuit device is unlocked during debugging, then debugging accessibility is improved, but intellectual property protection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a secure channel as an intermediary between the remote debugging system and the integrated circuit device. This secure channel, established through encryption/decryption machines and relay servers, mediates the debugging communication while maintaining IP protection. The intermediary allows debugging commands to be transmitted without exposing internal IP structures to unauthorized access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the debugging interface through remote access mechanisms. Instead of physically accessing the device or copying physical media, the system creates a virtual debugging environment that replicates the debugging functionality while maintaining security boundaries. The secure channel transmits virtual copies of debugging commands and responses without exposing the actual IP content.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If physical presence or shipping is required for debugging, then IP security is maintained, but debugging time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical presence and device shipping with an electronic communication system. Instead of requiring physical access to the integrated circuit device, the system uses encrypted electronic channels to transmit debugging commands and receive responses. This substitution eliminates the need for physical transport while maintaining security through cryptographic protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal debugging system that can access multiple integrated circuit devices remotely through the secure channel infrastructure. The relay server and encryption/decryption machines provide multi-functional capabilities, enabling secure remote debugging across different devices without requiring separate physical access procedures for each device. This universal approach reduces overall debugging time and cost.
3Productivity
If remote debugging is enabled without security measures, then debugging efficiency is improved, but IP exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The secure channel acts as an intermediary that enables efficient remote debugging while preventing IP exposure. The encryption/decryption machines and relay servers mediate all communication, allowing debugging operations to proceed efficiently without direct exposure of internal IP structures. The intermediary ensures that even though debugging is remote and efficient, the IP information remains protected throughout the transmission process.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and techniques of the present disclosure may provide remote debugging of an integrated circuit (IC) device while preventing unauthorized access of device intellectual property (IP). A system may include an IC device that generates an encrypted session key and an interface that enables communication between the IC device and a remote debugging site. The interface may enable the IC device to send the encrypted the encrypted session key to initiate a remote debug process, receive an acknowledgement from the remote debugging session, and authenticate the acknowledgement. Further, the interface may enable to the IC device to initiate a secure debug session between the IC device and the remote debugging site.