Infineon Technologies SLE 66C168PE MFC5.8

Overview

SLE 66C168PE from Infineon Technologies is an 8/16-bit security controller IC for smart card applications, featuring a 0.22 µm CMOS ECO2000 CPU with SAB 8051 opcode compatibility, 68-Kbyte ROM, 2304-Byte RAM (256-byte IRAM + 2048-byte XRAM), 16-Kbyte MicroSlim-EEPROM, and dual-key Triple DES hardware accelerator. It supports ISO/IEC 7816 T=0/T=1 protocols, operates across 1.8 V/3.0 V/5.0 V supply, and targets GSM, EMV payment, and PayTV cards requiring certified security and low-power operation.

For engineers reviewing the SLE 66C168PE datasheet, SLE 66C168PE pinout, SLE 66C168PE application, or SLE 66C168PE equivalent, key selection considerations include CC EAL5+ certification readiness, on-chip DDES acceleration timing (5.3 µs @ 33 MHz), MicroSlim-EEPROM endurance (500k cycles/page), voltage-flexible operation (1.8–5.0 V), and integrated sensor-based anti-tampering architecture.

Technical Context

The SLE 66C168PE implements a dedicated 16-bit ECO2000 core with enhanced memory addressing up to 16 Mbyte and instruction extensions enabling direct physical access beyond 64 Kbyte. Its Memory Management and Protection Unit (MMU) enforces strict OS/application mode separation using 16 configurable descriptors and supports secure multi-application download post-personalization.

Security execution relies on hardware-accelerated Dual Key Triple DES (DDES), a True Random Number Generator with firmware test, CRC-16 module per ISO/IEC 3309, and an integrated sensor suite (voltage, frequency, light, glitch, temperature) with UMSLC life-test function. Power management includes automatic internal clock scaling (PLL ×1–×4) to meet GSM/UICC current limits (<4 mA @ 1.98 V).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: Die (unsawn/wire-bonded M5 module variant for embedding in plastic cards). The SLE 66C168PE uses a minimal 5-pin configuration optimized for contact smart card interfaces.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SLE 66C168PE, the SLE 66CL168PE extends thermal reliability without sacrificing performance or security, while the SLE 66C80PE reduces cost and footprint at the expense of crypto throughput and memory scalability-making it suitable only for single-function, low-complexity smart cards.

Availability

SLE 66C168PE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GSM SIM, EMV payment, PayTV conditional access, and multi-application UICC designs 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 fabrication.

The SLE 66C168PE belongs to Infineon's SLE 66PE security controller product line, designed specifically for contact smart cards requiring Common Criteria EAL5+ certification, low-power operation, and hardware-accelerated cryptography in constrained 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 adjustable in real time to balance performance and power consumption-for example, scaling down to 15 MHz to meet GSM current limits.

Does the SLE 66C168PE include hardware support for random number generation?

Yes, the SLE 66C168PE integrates a True Random Number Generator (TRNG) with a built-in firmware test function (UMSLC life-test). It delivers cryptographically secure entropy under all operating conditions and is validated as part of the CC EAL5+ certification path, ensuring resistance to statistical bias and environmental manipulation.

How does the Memory Management and Protection Unit (MMU) enhance security in multi-application environments?

The MMU provides 16 software-configurable memory descriptors that enforce strict separation between OS and application modes, define application-specific memory segments, and prevent unauthorized access to crypto keys or system routines. It enables secure post-personalization applet loading and runtime context isolation-critical for UICC platforms hosting SIM, USIM, and payment applets simultaneously.

What packaging options are available for the SLE 66C168PE?

The SLE 66C168PE is offered as a bare die (type "C") for customer packaging or as a wire-bonded module in M5/M5.1 format (type "MFC5.8") optimized for embedding into ISO/IEC 7816-1/2 plastic smart cards. The M5 package includes pre-mounted bond wires and conforms to standard card module mechanical dimensions and thermal profiles.