Detectors

Active Shield

Overview
The Active Shield is a fully integrated digital IP protecting System-on-Chip (SoC) against tampering through a metal mesh sensor.

Specifications

Benefits

Tamper-resistant​
Dynamic detection
Configurable architecture
Adjustable parameters
Silicon proven​

Features

Fully integrated countermeasure against cut and strap attacks
Dynamic detection of tampering attempts
Shield characteristics adjustable through a graphical user interface:

  • security level
  • mesh number and density
  • gate number
  • power consumption
  • via distribution
  • routing congestion

Easy integration in typical design flows through RTL files and back-end scripts
Fully compatible with both Cadence SoC Encounter and Synopsys IC Compiler
Silicon proven in 110 nm, 90 nm, 65 nm and 55 nm CMOS processes
Typical power consumption: 5 µW to protect a 2 mm² area in a 65 nm CMOS process
Typical silicon area overhead lower than 3%
Straightforward integration through AMBA APB bus (customized on request)

Deliverables

VHDL source codes
VHDL test benches
Synopsys synthesis scripts
Design specification