The CryptoAutomotive TA/BSD development kit, the only dedicated automotive security tool on the market, emulates a secure node in an automotive network and provides system designers with an intuitive starting point for implementing security. Designed for flexibility, the tool adapts to each OEM application, allowing manufacturers to configure the node to meet various specifications and standards. It offers secure key storage, electronic control unit (ECU) authentication, hardware-based cryptographic accelerators, and other cryptographic features. When used as a core microcontroller, it enables designers to implement functions such as Secure Boot and message authentication on Controller Area Networks (CANs), including CAN 2.0 message conversion to CAN-FD (CAN Flexible Data Rate) with attached Message Authentication Codes (MACs) where appropriate.
Microchip offers a comprehensive approach to automotive security. In this regard, the TA/BSD kit allows OEMs to continue using their existing microcontrollers and, more importantly, their existing microcontroller firmware, which is certified to the required security standards. This is achieved by later incorporating the complementary chip that emulates the kit. These chips are supplied to the customer pre-programmed and incorporate security measures for true hardware-based key protection.
This modular approach can significantly reduce costs and time to market compared to redesigning the system with a high-end secure microcontroller. This may involve a major change to the microcontroller's firmware architecture for implementing secure zones with hardware and software domains.
This tool can be used with any ECU, architecture, configuration, or bus, providing the flexibility to add security to existing systems without requiring large-scale redesigns. The add-on chip solution requires minimal microcontroller code updates, thus having little to no impact on the core microcontroller's functional security levels. This approach also eliminates the need for advanced security expertise. The tool provides an online graphical user interface (GUI) program with pre-configured options that simplify and facilitate implementation.
The enormous advances in artificial intelligence are rapidly increasing automation levels, and with the arrival of autonomous vehicles, securing automotive networks is a clear and urgent need that the industry now widely recognizes. Thanks to its flexible and modular approach, Microchip's Automotive Development Kit provides OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers with the tools they need to immediately implement security measures in existing vehicle networks.
