×

Apparatus and method for protecting diagnostic ports of secure devices

  • US 7,822,995 B2
  • Filed: 03/03/2005
  • Issued: 10/26/2010
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/03/2005
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
Patent Images

1. An electronic system comprising:

  • a processor;

    a diagnostic port;

    a switching circuit, including a switch connected between the diagnostic port and the processor, for enabling and disabling the diagnostic port and for restricting access to contents of the electronic system prior to enabling the diagnostic port;

    a hardware sensor circuit for detecting if a connector is attached to the diagnostic port and for activating the switching circuit if the connector is detected; and

    a secret root key stored in a non-volatile memory for encrypting and decrypting data in the electronic system, wherein the switching circuit restricts access to contents of the electronic system by masking the secret root key such that attempted access to the secret root key results in a predetermined value, and wherein the switching circuit resets the system before the switch is closed.

View all claims
  • 5 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×