Silicon Photonics for Trusted Electronic Systems

Photonic encryption enhances cybersecurity 

The joint European project VE-Silhouette »Silicon Photonics for Trusted Electronic Systems« is developing wiretapping-proof communication technology with a standardized and modular photonics-electronics platform designed to protect sensitive data from misuse by third parties. The proposed electro-optical platform solution will allow photonic components to connect flexibly to open processor systems via optical and electrical interfaces. A prerequisite for this is an electro-optical interposer and the assembly of photonic components, the design and processing technology for which are being developed with input from Fraunhofer IZM researchers.

• Developing and integrating the micro and optoelectronic components for the interposer
• Developing solder-assisted self-alignment with mechanical stops for a cost-effective setup of electro-optical interfaces for data security

Fraunhofer IPMS contributes its experience in the field of integration of especially energy-saving components for IoT applications.

Furthermore, three different concepts of a quantum cryptographically secure key generator based on cryptographic multimode interferometers (k-MMI) will be evaluated with respect to their performance, security and risks. With the most suitable concept, a k-MMI component will be fabricated and its functional proof will be provided by cryptographic analysis methods.

In addition, the development of open RISC-V peripheral components on the electronic side will be implemented at the institute. The focus is on digital as well as analog control and evaluation of the photonic extensions.