This type of authentication is appropriate for use in protecting revenue streams (battery pack authentication), validating peripherals (video game controllers), and implementing secure communication schemes (automotive keyfobs). With 16KB of integrated flash memory and multiple communication options (including SPI(TM) and 1-Wire(R) interfaces), the MAXQ1004 is flexible enough to be programmed for any kind of secure authentication application.
In addition to providing robust authentication, this microcontroller consumes very little power, making it ideal for applications where power consumption must be kept to a minimum. When operating at 6MHz, the single-cycle MAXQ1004 consumes only 3.75mA; in its lowest power stop mode, it consumes only 300nA! For applications like digital still cameras, the MAXQ1004’s effect on overall battery consumption is negligible. However, for coin-cell-powered applications like keyfobs, the device provides extremely long battery life: a MAXQ1004 running from a 64mAh battery with a 0.1% duty cycle will last for 1.8 years, and with a duty cycle of 0.01%, the battery will last for over 10 years! An extremely wide operating range (1.7V to 3.6V) allows the MAXQ1004 to run from two AA batteries.
The MAXQ1004 is available in a lead-free, 16-pin TQFN package and operates over -40 degrees Celsius to +85 degrees Celsius extended temperature range.