ATEK Access Technologies has announced the availability of its new Datakey Mini-Bar series, the world’s smallest Crypto Ignition Key (CIK) portable memory system. Samples are now available, and orders are being accepted.
A CIK is a portable memory device used as a credential to enable or disable cryptographic equipment. Since producing its first CIK in 1986, Datakey portable memory products have continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of cryptographic systems. One of the most significant trends in these devices has been the ongoing reduction of size, weight and power (SWaP). In 2009, Datakey introduced the Bar series, offering a compact CIK solution for tactical environments. Today, the new Mini-Bar form factor takes that innovation even further, being 60% smaller than the Bar series while still meeting the same MIL-STD-810 environmental specifications.
Measuring just 21 mm x 15 mm, the Mini-Bar memory token is only slightly larger than a microSD card yet remains easy to handle. Mini-Bar memory tokens are available with serial EEPROM in 16 Kbit and 256 Kbit capacities, using either SPI or I²C interfaces. Models featuring Microchip’s CryptoAuthentication secure memory ICs are coming soon. Customized Mini-Bar tokens using customer-specified ICs will also be offered.
Shown next to a ruler for scale, Mini-Bar products (left) and Bar products (right) are placed side-by-side for comparison. The 60% reduction in size makes the Mini-Bar an ideal choice for mobile and hand-held embedded applications. Source: ATEK Access Technologies
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 eight-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.
“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.”
