10. Security Features
10.1 Sector Lockdown
The device incorporates a Sector Lockdown mechanism that allows each individual sector to be
permanently locked so that it becomes read only. This is useful for applications that require the
ability to permanently protect a number of sectors against malicious attempts at altering program
code or security information. Once a sector is locked down, it can never be erased or pro-
grammed, and it can never be unlocked.
To issue the Sector Lockdown command, the CS pin must first be asserted as it would be for
any other command. Once the CS pin has been asserted, the appropriate 4-byte opcode
sequence must be clocked into the device in the correct order. The 4-byte opcode sequence
must start with 3DH and be followed by 2AH, 7FH, and 30H. After the last byte of the command
sequence has been clocked in, then three address bytes specifying any address within the sec-
tor to be locked down must be clocked into the device. After the last address bit has been
clocked in, the CS pin must then be deasserted to initiate the internally self-timed lockdown
sequence.
The lockdown sequence should take place in a maximum time of tP, during which time the Status
Register will indicate that the device is busy. If the device is powered-down before the comple-
tion of the lockdown sequence, then the lockdown status of the sector cannot be guaranteed. In
this case, it is recommended that the user read the Sector Lockdown Register to determine the
status of the appropriate sector lockdown bits or bytes and reissue the Sector Lockdown com-
mand if necessary.
Command
Byte 1
Byte 2
Byte 3
Byte 4
Sector Lockdown
3DH
2AH
7FH
30H
Figure 10-1. Sector Lockdown
CS
Address
Bytes
Opcode
Byte 1
Opcode
Byte 2
Opcode
Byte 3
Opcode
Byte 4
Address
Bytes
Address
Bytes
SI
Each transition
represents 8 bits
18
AT45DB041D
3595L–DFLASH–4/08
ATMEL [ ATMEL ]
