Infineon Technologies SLE 66C168PE M5.1

Overview

SLE 66C168PE from Infineon Technologies is an 8/16-bit security controller IC designed for smart card applications, featuring 68-Kbyte ROM, 2304-Byte RAM (256-byte IRAM + 2048-byte XRAM), 16-Kbyte MicroSlim-EEPROM, dual-key Triple DES accelerator, and EAL5+-targeted hardware security architecture. It operates across 1.8 V / 3.0 V / 5.0 V supply rails, supports ISO/IEC 7816 T=0/T=1 protocols via integrated UART, and delivers up to 33 MHz internal clock (PLL ×4) for GSM, SDA payment, and PayTV card personalization.

For engineers reviewing the SLE 66C168PE datasheet, SLE 66C168PE pinout, SLE 66C168PE application in UICC/GSM cards, or SLE 66C168PE equivalent for EMV-compliant secure controllers, this page provides verified technical context, memory mapping, cryptographic acceleration metrics, sensor-based anti-tamper features, and certified security architecture details aligned with BSI-PP-0002 and VISA Level 3 requirements.

Technical Context

The SLE 66C168PE implements an enhanced ECO2000 8/16-bit CPU core with SAB 8051 opcode compatibility and extended instructions for direct physical memory access beyond 64 KB-enabling full 16-Mbyte addressability on request. Its Memory Management and Protection Unit (MMU) enforces strict OS/application mode separation using 16 configurable descriptors and supports secure multi-application loading post-personalization.

Hardware security includes a True Random Number Generator (TRNG) with firmware test, dedicated Dual Key Triple DES (DDES) accelerator delivering 5.3 µs encryption at 33 MHz, CRC-16 module per ISO/IEC 3309, and an integral sensor suite (voltage, frequency, light, glitch, temperature) with UMSLC life-test function. Power management supports dynamic internal clock scaling (1×–4× PLL) to meet GSM current limits (<4 mA @ 1.98 V).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: M5.1 wire-bonded module for embedding in plastic smart cards (no leadframe, die-on-substrate construction).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar security controller applications.

Compared with SLE 66CL120P, the SLE 66C168PE adds DDES acceleration, 2× EEPROM capacity, and EAL5+ sensor coverage-making it optimal for EMV payment cards. Versus SLE 78CLFX2040P, it trades Flash flexibility and asymmetric crypto for lower power, smaller die size, and mature GSM/UICC qualification-ideal for volume plastic card production.

Availability

SLE 66C168PE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GSM UICC SIM cards, EMV payment cards, PayTV conditional access modules, and multi-application eID cards requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and certified security architecture.

Supply support for SLE 66C168PE includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Infineon Technologies AG is a German semiconductor manufacturer specializing in security ICs, power management, and automotive electronics, with global R&D centers and ISO/TS 16949-certified wafer fabs.

The SLE 66C168PE belongs to Infineon's Security & Chip Card ICs product line, engineered specifically for high-assurance smart card applications demanding CC EAL5+, VISA Level 3, and ISO/IEC 7816 compliance in constrained plastic-card form factors.

FAQ

What is the maximum internal clock frequency supported by the SLE 66C168PE?

The SLE 66C168PE supports an internal clock frequency of up to 33 MHz, achieved via programmable PLL multiplication (×1, ×2, ×3, or ×4) of the external clock input (1–7.5 MHz). This frequency is dynamically adjustable to balance performance and power consumption, meeting GSM current limits down to <4 mA at 1.98 V.

Does the SLE 66C168PE include hardware-based countermeasures against side-channel attacks?

Yes-it integrates dedicated hardware countermeasures including automatic power profile randomization, active shield with user-controllable attack detection, bus confusion logic, and sensor-driven security reset. These features are validated against SPA, DPA, DFA, and timing attacks per its targeted Common Criteria EAL5+ certification under BSI-PP-0002.

Can the SLE 66C168PE execute code directly from XRAM during EEPROM programming?

Yes-the SLE 66C168PE supports code execution from XRAM during EEPROM programming operations, enabling faster personalization workflows. This capability eliminates the need to halt application execution during data writes, reducing total card personalization time and improving throughput in high-volume card issuance environments.

What is the endurance rating and page size configuration of the MicroSlim-EEPROM?

The MicroSlim-EEPROM offers 500,000 write/erase cycles per page at 25°C, with flexible page sizes from 1 to 64 bytes. It includes an enhanced Error Correction Unit (ECU), byte-level read/write capability, and a dedicated 32-byte OTP security area for batch- and die-unique keys-ensuring robust data retention over 10 years at 25°C.