Sunnyvale, Calif. - The MAXQ1004 from Maxim Integrated Products is a low-power 16-bit microcontroller that can add secure authentication to any application. Designed with the same security technology as Maxim's ultra-secure financial terminal microcontrollers, the MAXQ1004 integrates a true random-number generator (RNG) and a high-speed AES encryption engine supporting 128-, 192-, and 256-bit key sizes. These features enable the most secure authentication and communication schemes, while resisting analytical and cryptanalysis attacks.

The MAXQ1004 is appropriate for use in protecting revenue streams, validating peripherals, and implementing secure communication schemes such as automotive keyfobs. With 16KB of integrated flash memory and multiple communication options (including SPI and 1-Wire interfaces), the MAXQ1004 is flexible enough to be programmed for any kind of secure authentication application.

When operating at 6MHz, the single-cycle MAXQ1004 consumes only 3.75mA; in its lowest power stop mode, it consumes only 300nA. For applications such as digital still cameras, the MAXQ1004's effect on overall battery consumption is negligible. 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. Prices start at $2.50 (1000-up, FOB USA). An evaluation kit (MAXQ1004-KIT) will be available soon. For more information visit http://www.maxim-ic.com/MAXQ1004.