A new line of PSoC 64 Secure MCUs integrate robust, standards-based system layer security software with the hardware layer features available in the ultra-low-power PSoC 6 architecture. Specifically, PSoC 64 Secure MCU devices provide an isolated root-of-trust with true attestation and provisioning services. In addition, the line includes devices that deliver a pre-configured secure execution environment supporting the system software of various IoT platforms, providing TLS authentication, secure storage, and secure firmware management. The MCUs also include a rich execution environment for application development, with an embedded RTOS from Cypress’ ModusToolbox™ suite that manages communication with the secure execution environment.
PSoC 64 Secure MCUs are one of the first Arm Cortex-M processors to be certified as Level 1 compliant within the Arm Platform Security Architecture (PSA) certification scheme, PSA Certified, utilizing a secure Trusted Firmware-M (TF-M) implementation integrated into the Arm Mbed OS open-source embedded operating system. Combined with the Arm PSA holistic set of threat models, security analyses, hardware and firmware architecture specifications, designers can use PSoC 64 Secure MCUs with confidence in their secure applications. The line targets cloud-connected products that require protection of user data and trustworthy firmware updates, including personal healthcare devices, medical and chronic disease management equipment, and home security solutions.
The line of PSoC 64 Secure MCUs is supported in Cypress’ ModusToolbox™ suite, which will allow designers to select the system firmware of secure IoT platforms—such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Arm Pelion and Alibaba—to develop their application, and then configure and verify their secure boot images. The MCUs include a hardware-based root-of-trust consisting of secured storage and firmware, establishing a command-based set of trusted services. The root-of-trust includes hardware accelerated cryptography, as well as true random number generation (TRNG). The ModusToolbox suite brings best-in-class connectivity, processing, sensing, and security together in a unified environment, providing open access to third-party solutions, freeing engineers to focus on delivering high-value, differentiated products.
The PSoC 6 architecture is built on an ultra-low-power 40-nm process technology, and the MCUs feature low-power design techniques to extend battery life up to a full week for wearables. The dual-core Arm Cortex-M4 and Cortex-M0+ architecture lets designers optimize for power and performance simultaneously. Designers can use the MCU’s software-defined peripherals to create custom analog front-ends (AFEs) or digital interfaces for innovative system components such as electronic-ink displays. The PSoC 6 MCU features the latest generation of Cypress’ industry-leading CapSense® capacitive-sensing technology, enabling modern touch and gesture-based interfaces that are robust and reliable.
Cypress’ PSoC 64 Secure MCUs with SecureBoot will be sampling the first quarter of 2019, and additional variations are planned for the second quarter of 2019. More information on the line of PSoC 64 Secure MCUs is available at www.cypress.com/psoc6security.
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