Embedded ring oscillator network for integrated circuit security and threat detection

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure relate to combining on-chip structure with external current measurements for threat detection in an integrated circuit. This method considers Trojans' impact on neighboring cells and on the entire IC's power consumption, and effectively localizes the measurement of dynamic power. An on-chip structure can permit threat detections. In one aspect, the on-chip structure can comprise a plurality of sensors distributed across the entirety of the IC, with each sensor of the plurality of sensors being placed in different rows of a standard-cell design. In another aspect, data analysis can permit separating effect of process variations on transient power usage of the IC from effects of a hardware threat such power usage. The on-chip structure also can be employed for implementation of a PE-PUF.