Abstract: An improved method for encoding digital-data in a data processing system providing a buffer and utilizing a forward looking encoding process is disclosed. The forward looking encoding process includes the sequential steps of allocating a maximum number of bytes for a maximum size data-length field within the buffer and determining a data-length value for the digital data by encoding each of at least one portion of the digital data, the maximum size data-length field for receiving the data-length value. The forward looking encoding process also includes adjusting the maximum size data-length field, wherein the forward looking encoding process avoids a memory consuming duplication of the digital data.

Abstract: A method and system for secure transactions. The method and system comprise a security co-processor and an interface for interfacing the security co-processor to a host computer system. The method and system wherein secure transaction processing is performed locally in the security co-processor and non-secure transaction processing is performed in the host computer system. The method and system further include means for providing trusted input coupled to the security co-processor. In addition, the method and system include a second interface coupled to the security co-processor for receiving sensitive data from a smart card, and a trusted display coupled to the security co-processor for providing true transaction information. One advantage of the method and system in accordance with the present invention is that transactions are protected from unauthorized intrusion and, in addition, participation is proven so that transactions cannot be repudiated.

Abstract: A system and method for generating a random number is disclosed. The method and system include providing at least one oscillator, providing a sampler, and providing a sample control. The sampler is coupled to the at least one oscillator. The sampler is for sampling the at least one oscillator to provide at least a portion of the random number. The sample control is coupled to the sampler and is for controlling the sampler to sample the at least one oscillator at an interval which is based on a portion of a previous random number provided using the at least one oscillator.