Towards Secure Analog Designs: A Secure Sense Amplifier Using Memristors

Abstract

In this work, we propose a key-based locking/unlocking mechanism for sense amplifiers, an integral part of many analog systems. We leverage process variations to make the circuit functional only when the correct key is entered. An incorrect key will result in a circuit breakdown, making it inaccessible to an attacker. To enable this secure functionality, we leverage emerging technology devices, specifically memristors. The proposed secure sense amplifier can be used in important analog applications such as memories and sensors. We develop properties to ensure the security of the sense amplifier. These properties are validated by simulations results at the 22 nm CMOS technology node and assuming HP memristor properties.