More likely,I think, an organization like the NSA might build a pin-compatible version of an existing, commonly-used product like a keyboard encoder chip that is designed to transmit (by RFI signals) the contents of what is typed at the keyboard. It's simple, it's hard to detect, and it gets what they want.
I thought that most (all?) chips already radiated on the electromagnetic spectrum? Isn't that what tempest is about?
A) Yes, all circuitry radiates to some extent. The variable is the "some" factor. And is the noise compromising or just revealing? [Does it allow the Opposition to know you are typing, or WHAT you are typing...?] And the one everyone here seems to ignore -- can you hear it from where you need to? [I know of one National Lab with a blanket Tempest exemption -- it's a MILE to the uncontrolled border area.] B) Sure the Fort has Fab facilities. But Acme Gas & Grocery fixes cars, yet they do NOT have the diagnostic computer for my [in my dreams..] new BMW. Preventium & leading edge chips requires MASSIVE amounts of money for the infrastructure, and yesterday's versions do not cut it. [Tim, got any real $$ here?] I suspect it's like monitors: 14" SVGA's cost $200; 16" $650; 19" $1200 & 21", don't ask. Sure, tomorrow the 16" is $500, but you need it TODAY. The Fort is too busy trying to justify its FTE numbers to blow a couple zillion on keeping current with fab stuff. Plus, in a business with only a few customers, how does they keep the stepper-supplier from wising up? And when Mr. Bill introduces the 686, do you start all over? C) Would the Fort *really* ask for & get the needed cooperation while the industry fights CrippleChip/GAK? D) There are far cheaper ways to attack, as others point it. Neuter the power-supply controller chip, and it stays the same for generations. Or go for the video RAMDAC. -- A host is a host from coast to coast.................wb8foz@nrk.com & no one will talk to a host that's close........[v].(301) 56-LINUX Unless the host (that isn't close).........................pob 1433 is busy, hung or dead....................................20915-1433