Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for determining if an embedded system or integrated circuit is operating correctly, or if the device is faulty or counterfeit. Measurements of power consumption are used to determine the state of the device under test, these measurements being performed at multiple operating or environmental conditions to increase the ability of the apparatus to detect faulty and counterfeit devices.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for causing the incorrect operation (‘faults’) of digital devices such as embedded computer systems or integrated circuits. The apparatus uses a switching element to cause perturbations on the power supplies of the digital device. This apparatus can be connected to existing embedded systems with a minimal of modifications, and can insert a variety of faults into those embedded systems. Such faults can be used for verification of fault-tolerant systems or algorithms, including both safety-critical designs and cryptographic designs.