Synopsys, Inc.
PUF latch for OTP memory arrays and method of operation

Abstract:

A physical unclonable function (PUF) circuit generates one or more bit values. The PUF circuit includes a first one-time programmable (OTP) memory cell, a second OTP memory cell, and a latch circuit connected to the first and second OTP memory cells. The latch circuit initiates programming of the first and second OTP memory cells, detects a faster programming OTP memory cell of the first and second OTP memory cells, inhibits programming of a slower programming OTP memory cell of the first and second OTP memory cells, and stores a first bit value when the first OTP memory cell is the faster programming OTP memory cell and a second bit value when the second OTP memory cell is the faster programming OTP memory cell.