3.2 Software Tools

Microchip provides additional software tools that aid in the rapid development of applications. These include software libraries, development tools and example applications. Whenever new versions of CryptoAuthentication devices are developed, the library has to be upgraded to implement the new capabilities of the device. It is recommended that the latest version of these tools always be downloaded and implemented to take advantage of any enhancements and bug features.

CryptoAuthLibrary (CAL) – C Language

CryptoAuthLib is a software support library for the majority of Microchip security devices, including the ECC204 devices, written in C code. It is a portable, extensible, powerful and easy-to-use library for working with devices in the CryptoAuthentication device families by providing common APIs and command structures.

The library is designed with a Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) so that it can be readily ported for use with both Microchip and non-Microchip microcontrollers. The library can be readily included into MPLAB X or Microchip Studio projects and is integrated into the MPLAB Harmony framework.

Important: CAL Requirements:
  • ECC204 requires CAL Version: 3.4.1 or Higher

CryptoAuthLibrary (CAL) – Python

A Python version of CAL is also available to allow for the development of system-level applications from a PC environment without having to reprogram a microcontroller. Applications can, thus, be developed in a generic way prior to porting to a specific microcontroller. The python version of the library has all the capabilities of the C-version of the library and the commands were made syntax-consistent with the C-version of the library.

Important: CAL Python Requirements:
  • ECC204 requires Python CAL Version: cryptoauthlib 20221114 or higher.
  • Python Version 3.8 or higher is recommended

Trust Platform Design Suite

To simplify the implementation process, Microchip offers the web-based Trust Platform Design Suite (TPDS) tools that will allow developers to go from concept to production via a guided flow. The Trust Platform tools allow you to develop and construct the transaction diagrams and code necessary to implement a particular application within the constraints of the configuration and defined access policies. Specific Trust variants of the ECC204 will be developed over time. The ECC204 devices on this board are generic devices. The ECC608-TFLXTLS host device on this board is compatible with the TPDS tools.

More information on these tools can be found under Microchip’s Security ICs section of the webpage Security ICs.