Hardware Security in the Consumer Electronics Market

The Dawn of Secure Processors

From console and PC games to DVD discs to broadband-delivered digital media content, the software-based security systems protecting these assets have invariability been compromised. Sometime these breaches are minor annoyances to the company and its brand, but sometimes there are significant monetary implications and ensuing legal consequences. Meanwhile, outside the consumer electronics market, corporate computers are now sporting the next generation of secure computing technology and handsets are closely following suit. These platforms use processors with significant new hardware features that bring security support to the lowest levels of the machine architecture.

This study examines these new processors and considers the implications for the home digital video network market. We look at the work done in the PC platform and in embedded environments, as well as the key industry initiatives shaping the marketplace. This report will provide a forecast for secure processor adoption into relevant consumer electronics products and applications.

What Questions Does This Report Answer?

  • Is hardware security necessary?
  • What are secure video processors?
  • What is unique about them?
  • How will secure video processors help the market?
  • Who is making them?
  • Are they being deployed now?
  • Will they be used in CE products? When?
  • Which applications will the first to adopt them and why?
  • How are software security implementations faring in the CE market?
  • Is the home digital video market poised for rapid growth?

Who Needs This Report?

  • IC manufacturers
  • Camera manufacturers
  • STB manufacturers
  • Companies developing software for home digital video applications
  • Home media consumer electronics manufacturers
  • Content providers
  • Broadband portal companies
  • Financial industry