New portable memory system achieves 60% reduction in size

ATEK Access Technologies has released the Mini-Bar series, the recent addition to its Datakey brand of rugged portable memory products. Comprising portable memory tokens and mating receptacles, the series provides embedded systems designers with a robust memory key that can be used as a credential for access control or to store and transfer data. Designed for small, hand-held applications, the portable memory system minimises the receptacle footprint while maintaining a memory token size that is easily handled, all while providing robust environmental performance.

As the name suggests, Mini-Bar memory tokens and receptacles are miniaturised versions of the Datakey Bar series of products. These receptacle models are more than 60% smaller than the equivalent Bar receptacle models and are offered in two versions. The MBRHN model features an eight-pin header connector and measures 0.64” x 0.58” x 0.53” (16.3mm x 14.7mm x 13.6mm). The MBRFN model measures 0.64” x 0.58” x 0.36” (16.3mm x 14.7mm x 9.1mm) and uses a special interface board with an FFC/FPC connector. When properly mounted, the receptacles are offered with or without an adhesive gasket and achieve an IP67 seal.

These memory tokens are slightly larger than a microSD card but are thicker, stronger and easier to handle. Currently, four memory token models are available –all use serial EEPROM. Memory capacity options include 16Kbits or 256Kbits with an SPI or I2C serial interface. In 2025, further Mini-Bar memory tokens will be introduced featuring Microchip’s CryptoAuthentication secure memory ICs.

“Datakey Bar memory tokens and receptacles were released in 2009 and have become a popular choice for credentials in cryptographic products in the United States and Europe,” said Paul Plitzuweit, senior product manager for the Datakey line. “The trend for these cryptographic products, and for many embedded systems, has been toward decreasing sizes over time. The Mini-Bar system aims to strike the perfect balance by reducing the size of the receptacle as much as possible while ensuring that the ‘key’ (or credential) is still easy to handle.”