Patent ID: 6276609
Filing Date: 2001-08-21
Classification: G06K

Abstract:
A data carrier having a data processor, the data processor containing and utilizing a characteristic value during data processing and having voltage drain terminals for powering the data processor, current peak patterns occurring at the voltage drain terminals of the data processor during data processing, the current peak patterns depending upon the characteristic value and providing a way, if the current peak patterns are detectable, for unauthorized determination of the characteristic value, the data carrier deterring such unauthorized determination of the characteristic value, comprising:a capacitor totally enclosing the data processor for preventing physical access to the voltage drain terminals of the data processor,the voltage drain terminals of the data processor being connected to the capacitor internally of the capacitor,the capacitor being externally connected to supply voltage source terminals of a supply voltage source and in turn powering the data processor located within the capacitor,the current peak patterns at the voltage drain terminals of the data processor being undetectable at the supply voltage source terminals,whereby unauthorized determination of the characteristic value is deterred.