Abstract:
In an embodiment, a processing system includes a non-volatile memory, a hardware block, a protection circuit associated with the hardware block, and a password verification circuit. The non-volatile memory stores at least one reference password. The password verification circuit is configured to receive a password verification command, obtain a reference password, and test whether the passwords correspond. In case the passwords correspond, the password verification circuit generate an overwrite signal. The protection circuit is configured to receive a control command and selectively forward the control command to the associated hardware block as a function of the overwrite signal.
Abstract:
A processing system includes a processing unit and a hardware block configured to change operation as a function of life cycle data. A one-time programmable memory includes original life cycle data. A hardware configuration module is configured to read the original life cycle data from the one-time programmable memory and provide the original life cycle data to the hardware block. The hardware configuration module includes a register providing the life cycle data used to change operation of the hardware block. The hardware configuration module is configured to store the original life cycle data in the register and receive a command from the processing unit. The command includes a write request for storing new life cycle data in the register.
Abstract:
An NFC device may include a first and second controller interfaces, a first communication channel coupled to the first controller interface, and a second communication channel connected to the second controller interface. A secure element may include a secure element interface connected to the first communication channel and encryption/decryption circuitry configured to encrypt data to be sent on the first communication channel for being framed into the encrypted frames and to decrypt encrypted data extracted from the encrypted frames and received from the first communication channel. The secure element may also include management circuitry configured to control the encryption/decryption circuitry for managing the encrypted communication with the NFC controller. A device host may include a host device interface coupled to the second controller interface and control means or circuitry configured to control the management circuitry through non-encrypted commands exchanged on the first and second communication channels.
Abstract:
A method and an active battery balancing circuit for balancing an electric charge in a plurality of cells of a battery that are electrically connected in series is disclosed. A first subset of the cells of the battery is electrically connected to an inductance for providing a current flow from the first subset through the inductance. The first subset of the cells is disconnected from the inductance, and a current is allowed to flow from the inductance into a second subset of the cells of the battery. At least one of the first and the second subset of the cells of the battery comprises two or more cells.