Patent · US Active

Implementing enhanced security features in an ASIC using eFuses

US7724022B1 · kind B1 · utility

15Cited by
1References
20Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJan 28, 2009
Grant dateMay 25, 2010
Priority date
Expiry dateJan 28, 2029

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC G)Physics
  • CPC primaryG11C16/22
  • WIPO fieldComputer technology
  • WIPO sectorElectrical engineering

Abstract

A method and eFuse circuit for implementing enhanced security features using eFuses, such as disabling selected predefined test, debug, and mission security functions used in application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and a design structure on which the subject circuit resides are provided. The eFuse circuit includes a plurality of eFuses, a sense amplifier coupled to the plurality of eFuses, and a plurality of sense output latches coupled to the sense amplifier. The plurality of sense output latches is arranged to have a bias to power up to a known value. Control logic coupled to the plurality of sense output latches provides at least one predefined control signal responsive to the known value of the plurality of sense output latches, which enables a selected predefined security function. The plurality of eFuses is sensed and the ASIC is configured to a predefined state responsive to an applied POR/Sense control signal.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.