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KSD-64 A
Key Storage Device

The KSD-64 is a so-called Key Storage Device (KSD) developed by the American NSA for use with electronic cryptographic equipment. It is manufactured by Datakey Electronics in Savage (Minnesota, USA). It is typically used as a Crypto Ignition Key (CIK) in key-splitting applications, but it can also be used for other purposes, such as a FILL key.
 
The image on the right shows a typical KSD-64 key, which looks like a plastic toy key. Hidden inside, is a custom-made parallel EEPROM with 64 Kbits of storage capacity. The 28 contacts of the EEPROM are situated in between the plastic teeth of the key.

Devices supporting the KSD, have a so-called keyceptacle in which the key can be inserted. Once inserted, the key is activated by rotating it 90° clockwise, until it clicks. In that position, the 28 contacts of the key are connected to 28 contacts inside the keyceptacle.
  
KSD-64 Key Storage Device

The KSD-64 is no longer in production and is replaced by the compatible PK-64KC (see below) which is also available from Datakey Electronics. The images below show a typical KSD-64A key used with a Motorola SECTEL 2500 secure telephone.
 
KSD-64 Key Storage Device A KSD-64 with a Motorola tag Inserting the KSD-64 into a Motorola SECTEL phone Turning it clockwise for security activation The KSD-64 used as a FILL key for the Motorola SECTEL PK-64KC Key Storage Device PK-64KC with a Motorola Tag KSD-64A and PK-64KC on a single key chain

 
Possible uses
  • CIK - Crypto Ignition Key
  • FK - Fill Key
  • TAK - Terminal Activation Key
  • SAK - Security Activation Key
PK-64KC
The KSD-64 has been superceeded by the compatible PK-64KC that is shown here. It has the same storage capacity as the earlier KSD-64 and fits the same keyceptacle. The only visible difference is the smaller grip. It is also manufactured by Datakey Electronics [1] .

 Datasheet
  
PK-64KC Key Storage Device

 
Other Key Storage Devices
The manufacturer of the KSD-64, Datakey Electronics, produces a wide range of different key storage devices, ranging from simple unique identifiers, to CryptoMemory storage devices. Most keys are available in a variety of different enclosures [2] .

 Product overview
  
Click here to download the complete product overview

 
Examples
Motorola SECTEL 2500 with CIK KSD-64 Motorola SECTEL 2500 Typical view of the Motorola SECTEL 9600 (STU-III) KSD-64 Motorola SECTEL 9600 The KIV-7 with CIK DK-Series KIV-7

 
Glossary
Below, some expressions and acronyms related to the SECTEL 2500 are explained. For additional explanations, please refer to the Crypto Glossary.
 
CIK   Crypto Ignition Key

FK   Fill Key

SAK   Security Activation Key

TAK   Terminal Activation Key

References
  1. Datakey Electronics, PK Series Datasheet
  2. Datakey Electronics, Memory available and standard form factors

Further information

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© Copyright 2009-2012, Paul Reuvers & Marc Simons. Last changed: Mon,14 May 2012.09:44:15
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