Atmel's choice of the ARM SecurCore family was based on the proven success of ARM's 32-bit processor core, and ATMEL's existing ARM expertise. The SC100 embedded core, the first member of the ARM SecurCore family, offers high performance, very low power consumption, small silicon size and security feature enhancements. Since code and development tools are compatible with the standard ARM core, customers can capitalize on their own ARM experience and benefit from multiple vendor sources.

32-bit and Java™ Card Operating System
The Java language and Java virtual machine instruction set were developed specifically for a 32-bit machine with a large memory capacity. The JavaCard™ derived specification took a number of resource issues into account, but a high performance 32-bit microprocessor is still the preferred platform. ATMEL's AT91SC series is ideally suited to high level languages such a Java Card OS.

To improve the performance of Java based Smart Cards, Atmel has implemented a set of simple but highly efficient hardware features on its high performance EEPROM.

Highly Security Solution
The new generation of multi-application cards requires the highest levels of security. Government bodies have already awarded ATMEL Smart Card ICs Common Criteria EAL4+ security (with RISC processor) certification. Building on this security expertise, ATMEL's AT91SC series has also been designed to meet the Common Criteria EAL4+ standard, the highest level normally required for banking and payment applications.

AT91SC Series: a Powerful Architecture
Atmel's AT91SC series is based on the ARM SecurCore processor. With ROM program memory, EEPROM data memory, crypto-coprocessor and powerful security features, the AT91SC series is the ideal solution for low-power, high performance, high security multi-application smart cards.