SparkFun Cryptographic Co-Processor Breakout - ATECC608A (Qwiic)

The SparkFun ATECC608A Cryptographic Co-processor Breakout is an essential addition to your IoT node, edge device, or embedded system if you're looking to bolster its security. It features symmetric AES-128 encryption/decryption, asymmetric authentication, and much more. However, it's important to note that the complete datasheet for the ATECC608A is under NDA with Microchip, and its Arduino support is limited.

The breakout board is equipped with two Qwiic ports, enabling a plug-and-play functionality. This makes it easy to connect with the rest of your system without the need for soldering. If you prefer using a breadboard, 2.54mm-spaced pins are also available. The ATECC608A chip is versatile and capable of numerous cryptographic processes, including creating and securely storing unique asymmetric key pairs based on Elliptic Curve Cryptography (FIPS186-3), AES-128 encryption/decryption, creating and verifying 64-byte digital signatures, and much more.

One of the standout features of the ATECC608A chip is its 10Kb EEPROM array. This can be used to store keys, certificates, data, consumption logging, and security configurations. Access to different sections of memory can be restricted, and the configuration can be locked to prevent changes. Additionally, each ATECC608A Breakout comes with a unique 72-bit serial number and includes various security features to protect against physical or logical attacks.

The SparkFun ATECC608A Cryptographic Co-processor Breakout operates at a voltage of 2.0V-5.5V, with a default on the Qwiic System of 3.3V. It has an active current draw for the ATECC608A of 16 mA and a sleep current of less than 150 nA. The I2C address of the ATECC608A is 0x60 and can be configured to any address. However, a multiplexer/Mux is required for communication with multiple ATECC608A sensors at the default address on a single bus. It's also worth noting that the ATECC608A can only be configured once before it is permanently locked.

The SparkFun Qwiic Connect System, an ecosystem of I2C sensors, actuators, shields, and cables, is designed to make prototyping faster and less error-prone. All Qwiic-enabled boards use a common 1mm pitch, 4-pin JST connector, reducing the amount of required PCB space and eliminating the risk of incorrect connections.