Linx Technologies’ CipherLinx signals a new era in security for remote keyless entry (RKE) and remote control devices. The highly secure, encrypted remote control technology offers a level of security and features believed to be unmatched by any existing solution. According to the manufacturer, CipherLinx may well redefine the wireless security marketplace. The CipherLinx technology is based on a core algorithm called Skipjack, developed by the United States National Security Agency (NSA). This algorithm is widely considered to be one of the most secure encryption algorithms available, stated Linx.

Article Tools

• 

One of the key features of this new technology is that it will never send or accept the same packet twice. This alone makes it more secure than "rolling code" type devices, which can repeat packets multiple times, the developer said. Furthermore, added Linx, CipherLinx changes codes with every packet sent, not just every button press. This means that if the device transmits continuously at the fastest rate possible, it will still take 890 years to run out of valid packets. Other salient features include a large number of data lines, multiple baud rates, individual "button level" user permissions, optional encoder PIN, encoder identity output, and a control line for external transmitters.

Products employing CipherLinx components are easily configured by the manufacturer or end user and require no production programming. The first CipherLinx-based parts are the Linx HS series. This series consists of an encoder that will encode the status of up to 8 buttons or contacts into a secure transmission. The matching decoder will decode the transmission and, following authentication, replicate the button or contact states to control external circuitry or devices. These are implemented in tiny 20-pin SSOP packages with very low power consumption, making them suitable for battery-powered applications. The parts have been evaluated by Independent Security Evaluators (ISE). The HS is currently in production and is priced at $2.54 in production quantities of 10,000.