Maxim's DS28E38 is an elliptic curve digital signature algorithm (ECDSA) public key-based secure authenticator that incorporates Maxim's patented ChipDNA™ physically unclonable function (PUF) technology. This allows the DS28E38 to deliver protection against invasive physical attacks while remaining cost-effective. The ChipDNA circuit generates a unique output value that is repeatable over time, temperature, and operating voltage by using random variations of semiconductor device characteristics that naturally occur during wafer fabrication. Attempts to probe or observe ChipDNA operation modifies the underlying circuit characteristics, preventing discovery of the unique value used by the chip cryptographic functions.

DS28E38Q+U utilizes ChipDNA output as key content to cryptographically secure all device stored data and optionally, under user control, as the private key for the ECDSA signing operation. With ChipDNA capability, the device provides a core set of cryptographic tools derived from integrated blocks including an asymmetric (ECC-P256) hardware engine, a FIPS/NIST-compliant true random number generator (TRNG), 2 Kb of secured EEPROM, a decrement-only counter and a unique 64-bit ROM identification number (ROM ID). The unique ROM ID is used as a fundamental input parameter for cryptographic operations and serves as an electronic serial number within the application. The DS28E38 communicates over the single-contact 1-Wire® bus at both standard and overdrive speeds. The DS28E38Q+U is available in a small 6-TDFN-EP package.

How Unclonable, Turnkey Embedded Security Protects Designs from the Ground Up

Isolate Software Execution with a DeepCover Security Framework 

DeepCover Embedded Security Solution Guide