FPGA configuration bitstream encryption using modified key
US8363833B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 8, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jan 29, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 8, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L2209/24
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Circuits, methods, and apparatus that prevent detection and erasure of a configuration bitstream or other data for an FPGA or other device. An exemplary embodiment of the present invention masks a user key in order to prevent its detection. In a specific embodiment, the user key is masked by software that performs a function on it a first number of times. The result is used to encrypt a configuration bitstream. The user key is also provided to an FPGA or other device, where the function is performed a second number of times and the result stored. When the device is configured, the result is retrieved, the function is performed on it the first number of times less the second number of times and then it is used to decrypt the configuration bitstream. A further embodiment uses a one-time programmable fuse (OTP) array to prevent erasure or modification.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.