Secure MCUs boost performance in next-generation smart applications
The STM32H563 and STM32H573 MCUs from STMicroelectronics, feature a 250 MHz Arm® Cortex®-M33 core, and STM32 Trust TEE Secure Manager, which makes it easier to implement strong security in connected devices.
STMicroelectronics has introduced the performance-oriented STM32H563 and STM32H573 microcontrollers which offer the cutting-edge security provided by the STM32Trust TEE Security Manager for smart, connected devices.
The new MCUs are based on an Arm Cortex-M33 core which blends high performance with security features and energy efficiency. In the STM32H5x3 implementation, this core runs at 250 MHz and 375 DMIPS, achieving an EEMBC CoreMark® benchmark score of 1,023.
The STM32H563 MCUs provide between 1 Mbyte and 2 Mbytes of Flash memory, and 640 kbytes of SRAM. The STM32H573 is available with 2 Mbytes of Flash memory, and provides an additional encryption accelerator engine supporting the AES, PKA, and OTFDEC algorithms. The STM32H573 also includes an ST-iROT pre-configured immutable root of trust, with secure boot, firmware update, serial loader, and secure debug mechanisms.
The security features of the Cortex-M33 core, which complies with the PSA Certified Level 3 and GlobalPlatform SESIP3 security specifications, include the TrustZone® architecture. Building on this, ST has added its own security services.
For instance, the STM32H5 series, of which the STM32H563 and the STM32H573 are part, is the first to come with system-on-chip (SoC) security services accessed via an industry-standard applications programming interface. This facility, called STM32Trust TEE Secure Manager, saves developers from writing their own security software code, and provides security services that are developed according to industry best practice. This simplifies development while ensuring effective protection.
The SoC security services which are provided include isolation, cryptography, key storage, and initial attestation. The new MCUs also provide pre-provisioning credentials programmed in a secure ST factory for seamless registration to various cloud and OEM servers. Other security features are multi-tenant IP protection, and remote lifecycle management of pre-integrated third-party credentials.
The MCU takes advantage of the advanced 40 nm CMOS process technology developed by ST, and from improved on-chip power-conversion circuits to keep power consumption low, even when operating at ambient temperatures up to 125°C.