October 25, 2019 by Luke James
Renesas' new MCUs target secure IoT with their open software platform. The MCUs combine advanced security and connectivity with a flexible software package and a comprehensive partner ecosystem.
Renesas Electronics has recently launched its new family of MCUs that target secure and scalable IoT applications with an open software platform that allows its customers to develop IoT endpoints and leverage existing software platforms.
The Renesas Advanced (RA) family of 32-bit Arm® Cortex®-M microcontrollers deliver the ultimate combination of optimized performance, security, connectivity, peripheral IP, and easy-to-use Flexible Software Package, according to Renesas, that address the next generation of embedded solutions. This family of MCUs is supported by its own comprehensive partner ecosystem to deliver a range of building blocks that will work out of the box with the RA family.
Roger Wendelken, Senior VP of Renesas' IoT and Infrastructure Business Unit, said, “RA MCUs offer customers the ultimate IoT security by combining our Secure Crypto Engine IP with NIST CAVP certifications on top of Arm TrustZone® for Armv8-M, while also providing tamper detection and reinforcing resistance to side-channel attacks,”
A key feature of the Renesas RA family is strong security. By making security an integral part of the MCU, the customer has it without realization. This eliminates the need for the customer to take action on the security front and not only makes devices utilizing the MCUs more secure, but also makes it easier for the customer to begin using the security features that are present.
Renesas Electronics' new RA family of MCUs. Image Credit: Renesas Electronics.
Strong security is achieved through the inclusion of Renesas' proprietary secure crypto engines with NIST CAVP certification on top of Arm TrustZone for Armv8-M. The MCUs also provide tamper detection and resistance to side-channel attacks.
Much has been published on the IoT security front—or rather, lack of. These MCUs have been designed to help alleviate some of the contemporary security problems associated with IoT applications and allow engineers and developers to achieve a more rapid time-to-market with their products without compromising on crucial features, security being one.
Built on sound and established security features, engineers can improve on current and provide new standards of security in high-performance devices.
The five members of the RA family of MCUs is now available to purchase directly from Renesas Electronics' network of worldwide distributors. Prices range from $2.50 to $7.00 per unit in 10,000-unit quantities.
Renesas Electronics Corporation is a premier supplier of premier advanced semiconductor solutions. The company delivers trusted embedded design innovation with complete semiconductor solutions that enable billions of connected devices to enhance the way people work and live. Renesas is a global leader in microcontrollers, analog, power, and SoC products.
