The world’s smallest Crypto Ignition Key (CIK) portable memory system, the Datakey Mini-Bar series, has been made available by ATEK Access Technologies. Orders are being taken, and samples are now available.
A portable memory device used as a credential to activate or deactivate cryptographic equipment is called a Crypto Ignition Key. In order to adapt to the evolving requirements of cryptographic systems, Datakey has consistently improved its portable memory devices since manufacturing its first CIK in 1986.
The continuous decrease in size, weight, and power (SWaP) has been one of the biggest developments in these devices. Datakey debuted the Bar series in 2009, providing a small-sized CIK solution for tactical settings.
The new Mini-Bar form factor, which is 60% smaller than the Bar series while yet adhering to the same MIL-STD-810 environmental requirements, expands on this innovation.
The Mini-Bar memory token, which is just marginally bigger than a microSD card at 21 x 15 mm, is still manageable. Using either SPI or I2C interfaces, mini-bar memory tokens with serial EEPROM in 16 Kbit and 256 Kbit capacities are available. Soon, models with Microchip’s CryptoAuthenticationTM secure memory ICs will be available. Additionally, customer-specified ICs will be used to create customized Mini-Bar tokens.
The unique design of Mini-Bar receptacles allows them to be integrated into the corner of a housing, thereby minimizing the amount of volume required inside the enclosure while also minimizing the front panel space needed.
Mini-Bar receptacles are offered with two different internal interfacing options:
• The MBRHN Mini-Bar receptacle features an 8-pin header connector and measures
16.3 mm x 15.8 mm x 13.7 mm.
• The MBRFN Mini-Bar receptacle features seven flat targets and measures
16.3 mm x 15.8 mm x 9.1 mm and is designed for use with an FFC/FPC interface board.
Both receptacles are offered with or without an adhesive gasket and can achieve an IP67 seal when properly mounted.
Leadership Comments
“The Mini-Bar employs the same proven design as its predecessor, the Bar—slide-in/slide-out operation, corner-mounting, and MIL-STD-810 environmental performance, but is more than 60% smaller,” said Paul Plitzuweit, Senior Product Manager for the Datakey line. “This makes the Mini-Bar an ideal choice for next-generation cryptographic devices that have portable or embedded use cases. But the Mini-Bar is not limited to CIK applications. Any embedded system that requires a robust removable memory device for access control or data transfer applications could benefit from these revolutionary new products.”
Customers in North America can now request samples and place orders through ATEK Access Technologies at https://datakey.com/
Customers outside of North America can find their authorized Datakey distributor at https://datakey.com/where-to-buy
