STMicroelectronics STM1403ASMQ6F

Overview

STM1403ASMQ6F from STMicroelectronics is a FIPS-140 Level 3+ security supervisor IC designed for tamper-resistant cryptographic modules in POS terminals and secure payment devices. It provides four high-impedance physical tamper inputs (TP1–TP4), over/under voltage detection (2.0 V / 4.2 V thresholds), automatic battery switchover with Vccsw status indication, and open-drain SAL/RST/PFO/BLD outputs. Its 3 × 3 mm QFN16 package supports compact, secure PCB layouts.

For engineers reviewing the STM1403ASMQ6F datasheet, STM1403ASMQ6F pinout, STM1403ASMQ6F application, or STM1403ASMQ6F equivalent, key selection criteria include tamper input configuration (NH/NL), VOUT behavior during alarm (ON for STM1403A), VREF availability (1.237 V, STM1403A only), battery switchover threshold (~2.4 V), and low quiescent current (2.8 µA typ).

Technical Context

The STM1403A implements dual-voltage monitoring: VINT (VCC or VBAT) is compared against upper (VHV = 4.2 V typ) and lower (VLV = 2.0 V typ) trip points to trigger SAL. Four independent tamper pins-TP1/TP3 (normally high), TP2/TP4 (normally low)-detect enclosure intrusion via state reversal, with internal pull-up/pull-down logic ensuring robust edge detection.

Its battery switchover circuit activates when VCC falls below VSW (~2.4 V), switching VOUT from VCC to VBAT; Vccsw reflects this state (low = VCC active, high = VBAT active). The RST output asserts when VCC drops below VRST or MR is pulled low, with 200 ms typical reset timeout (trec) after recovery.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

STM1403ASMQ6F uses a secure, low-profile 16-pin QFN package (3 mm × 3 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin numbering follows standard QFN layout (pin 1 at top-left corner, counterclockwise).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX6956EAP+ and TPS386000RGPT, STM1403ASMQ6F uniquely integrates FIPS-140 Level 3+ tamper detection, autonomous battery switchover with Vccsw feedback, and VOUT continuity during alarm-enabling single-chip compliance for certified cryptographic modules where external coordination or higher power is unacceptable.

Availability

STM1403ASMQ6F is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for POS terminal security modules, EMVCo-compliant payment devices, and secure hardware wallets requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for STM1403ASMQ6F 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader specializing in secure microcontrollers, power management, and analog/mixed-signal ICs for industrial, automotive, and smart-card applications.

The STM1403 family targets FIPS-140 and EMVCo-certified systems, delivering integrated tamper detection, voltage supervision, and battery switchover in a single QFN package for secure payment and cryptographic hardware.

FAQ

What is the function of the VREF pin on STM1403ASMQ6F?

VREF provides a precise 1.237 V (typ) reference voltage on pin 9, available exclusively on the STM1403A variant. It is valid when VCC is between 2.4 V and 3.6 V and is internally pulled to ground via a 100 kΩ resistor when VCC drops below 2.4 V. This reference supports accurate analog comparisons in tamper-detection circuits or external ADCs.

How does VOUT behave during a security alarm on STM1403ASMQ6F?

As an STM1403A variant, STM1403ASMQ6F maintains VOUT in the ON state (supplied from VCC or VBAT) even when SAL is asserted due to tamper or voltage fault. This ensures continuous power to critical secure memory (e.g., SRAM holding encryption keys) during intrusion events, a mandatory behavior for FIPS-140 Level 3+ compliance.

What are the voltage thresholds for over/under voltage detection?

The STM1403ASMQ6F monitors VINT (VCC or VBAT) against fixed thresholds: overvoltage trips at 4.2 V (VHV, typ) and undervoltage at 2.0 V (VLV, typ). These thresholds are internally generated and operate independently of supply rail, enabling reliable alarm generation whether powered from VCC or VBAT.

Can TP1–TP4 be used without external resistors?

Yes-TP1 and TP3 (normally high) can be tied directly to VOUT (or VTPU on other variants), and TP2 and TP4 (normally low) can be tied directly to VSS when unused. No external pull resistors are required, as the internal logic handles biasing. External resistors (e.g., 10 MΩ) are only needed for switch-based tamper detection circuits shown in Figures 5–8.