Introduction

This application note demonstrates the Tamper Detection feature of the RTC (Real Time Counter) module in the Atmel® | SMART SAM L22 microcontrollers, with various configurations and code examples.

Tamper detection is the ability of a device to sense that an active attempt to compromise the device integrity or the data associated with the device is in progress; the detection of the threat may enable the device to initiate appropriate defensive actions. The main application of tamper detection is in utility metering system like energy meter, gas meter, water meter, etc. Tamper detection senses the unwanted activities that attempts to stop the operation of utility meters.

This application note describes the various methods of tamper detection. Here, the RTC is configured in clock/calendar mode, which keeps the track of the real time. On detection of a tamper attempt, an error message is displayed on the LCD and an alarm is set.