Since hardware authentication is often a new feature, it’s helpful to be able to demonstrate this capability to the rest of the team or to management. Microchip offers a low-cost, small USB dongle that makes this easy. Turnkey graphic software for the PC is available from the Microchip website to help with the demo. Once the decision has been made to include hardware authentication, the ACES software can be used with this same USB dongle board to explore the features of the CryptoAuthentication device and understand how it can be used. With 16 slots to store multiple secrets, the device can increase system security by layering multiple cryptographic sequences into the architecture. Once the architectural design is finished, it is possible to start developing software while waiting for the initial PC boards. Microchip offers development tools that runs on a PC or connects it to the development system for the microprocessor. It includes a zero insertion force socket to easily try out different configurations. When the final board design is ready, it is necessary to program the secrets into a few parts to test system operation. With ACES software running on the PC, it’s easy to place new chips into the sockets and replicate the desired configuration. For higher volume production, contact Microchip for production personalization options.