Category: Security

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Zwölf Microcontroller Platform

Zwölf is an open microcontroller platform for simple embedded applications that require long-term data retention and/or long-term functionality.

Zwölf modules are available in a versatile package that can be soldered surface mount, through-hole (DIP-12) or used as a removable module with a DIP socket or spring contacts. The modules are also compatible with 6-pin PMOD sockets.

While the modules are built with a variety of MCUs, FPGAs and memories from various vendors, each module is partially pin-compatible and implements the same code-compatible stack-based CPU and a common interface for control and programming.

Zwölf is still under development, for more information please contact us or join the discussion on our BBS.

Tools

  • Spielplatz is a evaluation/development board.
  • Wolfsjunge is a minimal controller/programmer.
  • Wolfshöhle is a minimal breakout/host board with 16 digital GPIOs.
  • Tunken is an adapter for breadboard prototyping.

Resources

Zwölf Family Roadmap

Device Controller Memory Potential Lifespan¹ Data Retention Cost
LS0x MCU OTP + EEPROM 5+ years 100-200 years Low
LS1x MCU Flash + FRAM 5-20 years 200 years Higher
LS2x FPGA Flash + FRAM 20-100 years 200 years Highest
LS3x MCU FRAM 100 years 100 years Higher
LS5x Custom silicon FRAM/EEPROM 100 years 100-200 years Low

¹ Potential lifespan is an estimate of how long the device could potentially operate under ideal conditions.

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Freedom of Thought

Deep thinking often requires writing. The writing down of thoughts can be affected by perceived privacy. Thus, the erosion of perceived privacy may reduce the capacity for deep thought.

I’ve always been interested in writing. I believe that in order to write interesting things, you can’t censor yourself, you have to write the first thought that pops into your mind. For me at least, this process requires privacy, because you’re putting down drafts of personal, unpolished thoughts, some of which you disagree with, and some you might find embarrassing, offensive or ridiculous and wouldn’t want others reading.

Over the years my perception of privacy while writing has diminished as computers have become more complex. I had essentially given up on the belief that any privacy existed when using a computer. Today, even the most advanced and security conscious users can’t be completely certain that they have total privacy.

This is a big part of what set me on the mission of creating computers that I could understand and trust at all levels. The computers that we’re making are simple enough to understand and even their CPUs can be audited. My hope is that these computers can help to restore, at least, perceived privacy, and potentially unleash more freedom of thought.

The computer itself isn’t the only threat vector, there is also the input and output devices. These are also difficult challenges but we hope to eventually offer solutions for them as well.

You can follow us on X and GitHub for the latest updates.