SBIR-STTR Award

This is a unique, practical solution to the tampering prevention problem, because even if reverse engineers know exactly how it works - they cannot overcome it. Similar to human DNA typing, SENTINEL checks the electronic power signature that characterizes a volume operating in its environment. Any volume of or individual analog, digital, or RF elements of any system have a unique power signature on the supply voltage line(s), due to the unique combination of components in the system and their individual behaviors, which combine to form a signature that is unique to the operating environment in which the element functions. We can exploit this signature in a simple system which detects the signature, compares it with an expected one stored within it at activation, and then responds to a detected tampering situation with a reaction that prevents reverse engineering. It can be implemented in any volume, at subsystem, board, MCM, module, or chip levels. Phase I will produce (1) an experimental prototype, (2) experimental and analytical feasibility assessments using actual and simulated signature data, (3) a prototype demonstration, (4) a preliminary system design to carry forward into Phase II, and (5) an initial assessment of commercialization potential.

Keywords:
Anti-Tamper, Reverse Engineering, Process Protection, Pattern Recognition, Signal Features, Signal Characterization, Tamper Detection, Tamper Prevention

This is a unique, practical solution to the tampering prevention problem, because even if reverse engineers know exactly how it works - they cannot overcome it. SENTINEL checks the electronic power signature that characterizes a volume operating in its environment. Any volume of or individual analog, digital, or RF elements of any system has a unique power signature on the supply voltage line(s), due to the unique combination of components in the system and their individual activation sequences, which combine to form a signature that is unique to the operating environment in which the element functions. We exploit this signature in a simple system which detects the signature, compares it with an expected one stored within it at activation, and then responds to a detected tampering situation with a reaction that prevents reverse engineering. It can be implemented in any volume, at subsystem, board, MCM, module, or chip levels. Phase II will produce (1) proof-of-concept, tested prototypes, (2) performance and exploitation testing and demonstration results, (3) a comprehensive system design to carry forward into Phase III or transition, and (5) specific commercialization and transition plans. Lockheed-Martin, a MDA system supplier, will participate to ensure transition to MDA systems.

Keywords:
Anti-Tamper, Reverse Engineering, Process Protection, Pattern Recognition, Signal Features, Signal Characterization, Tamper Detection, Tamper Preventi