Importance

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Abstract

Circuitry mounted within a single hybrid or monolithic integrated circuit (I.C.) package including: (1) a first integrated circuit which is desired to be tracked for some purpose such as security or inventory, and (2) a second circuit having a memory for storing an identification number and an RF transceiver for transmitting the stored number in response to an RF interrogation signal. For security purposes, the invention makes it difficult or impossible for a thief to alter the identification number without destroying the LC., because the identification number is stored in memory within the I.C. For inventory purposes, the invention overcomes the need to affix an external identification tag to the I.C. package. The invention is especially suited for protecting a highly valuable first integrated circuit such as a microprocessor.

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First Claim