A Paris-based vendor of smart-card systems has designed its SIMphonIC 3G 64 RSA 32-bit smart card around the ARM 32-bit RISC SecurCore, which enables mobile operators to migrate from second- to third-generation cellular technology, while delivering the performance required by 3G secure authentication algorithms. Oberthur Card Systems described SIMphonIC as a high-security dual-mode SIM card that embeds 2G applications and offers 3G SIM tool kit capability that complies with the latest specifications from the European Telecommunications Standards Institute and the Third Generation Project Partnership (3GPP).

Oberthur and ARM Ltd. (Cambridge, England) said the card supports multifunction capability and is able to run other Java technology-based applications. By implementing security management based on several PIN-code levels and fully supporting the 3GPP Phonebook, the card enables users to develop their own personal databases, storing contact details and secured sensitive information. It also allows synchronization with other devices, such as PCs running Microsoft Outlook and handheld PDAs. Oberthur said it is considering integrating more ARM-powered smart-card products into its road map utilizing the SecurCore SC200 core, which integrates Jazelle technology for Java acceleration.

Entertainment angle

Separately, MediaTek Corp. (Taipei, Taiwan) has licensed the ARM926EJ-S processor core for use in upcoming ICs targeted at the consumer entertainment market. MediaTek licensed the ARM7TDMI core from ARM last year. With the new core, it will be able to add improved Java functionality to its next generation of products targeting applications such as DVD players and home audio systems, the company said. ARM said it now has a total of 14 partners in Taiwan, eight of which have taken additional licenses.

The ARM926EJ-S core contains ARM's Jazelle, which accelerates Java execution by a factor of eight compared with a software-based Java virtual machine, said ARM, citing Embedded Caffeine Mark measurements. The core can run Linux, Palm OS, Windows CE and Symbian OS in mobile phones or other apps.

Because the ARM926EJ-S core is fully synthesizable, it can be applied to several generations of process technology. It features selectable-size instruction and data caches. An Embedded Trace Macrocell interface and an Amba AHB on-chip interconnect interface are ease development of a complex systems-on-chip.

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