Microchip is reaching out to Apple users with their Wi-Fi Software Development Kit (SDK). The SDK supports the Apple HomeKit platform which is known for the ease with which Apple MFi licensees can create fast, cryptography-enabled low-power designs.

The new Wi-Fi SDK combines hardware cryptography suites within the CEC1702 system chip and associated protocols. In terms of hardware, the system consists mainly of an ARM Cortex-M4-based micro interfaced to the well-established WINC1510 low-power 802.11 b/g/n certified Wi-Fi module.

Microchip claim that the hardware-based security engines within the Wi-Fi HomeKit solution reduce system calculation times, resulting in a fast and friendly end-user experience. For example, a  HomeKit command such as pair setup can be completed in 0.95 seconds and pair verify in less than 0.1 seconds — very useful if you are in a hurry to unlock a front door. The reduced System-On time offered by the Wi-Fi SDK then yields lower overall power consumption.

The CEC1702 in the SDK offers secure booting using a hardware-based root of trust to protect against a security breach. In addition there is easy-to-use encryption, authentication, private and public key capabilities and customer programming flexibility to minimise application risks. Additionally, 480 KB SRAM code plus data is allocated to the CEC1702 including space for developers to place their application-specific code.

The new SecureIoT1702 development board accommodates not just CEC1702 MCU, but also a compact, high-contrast, serial graphic LCD display module, pushbuttons and two expansion headers compatible with the MikroElektronika mikroBUS Expansion interface. The SDK is part number DM990012 and can be purchased here.

Image: Microchip - www.microchip.com