EtherTrust

CryptoTerminal

EtherTrust Crypto Terminal

Hardware-protected transaction signing for blockchain applications.

Blockchain technology enables new forms of digital transactions, but protecting private cryptographic keys remains essential. EtherTrust Crypto Terminal applies smart-card security principles to blockchain transactions: private keys are generated or stored in a removable Secure Element, while PIN entry and signature approval take place directly on the terminal.

The terminal supports both connected (hot) and disconnected (cold) signing workflows. Cryptographic signatures are performed within the smart card, reducing the exposure of private keys to potentially compromised computers and networks. The firmware can also be reflashed before use as part of the device’s security procedures.

CryptoTerminal v2

EtherTrust CryptoTerminal v2 with touchscreen and inserted smart card

CryptoTerminal v2 features a smart-card reader, USB serial connectivity and a Bluetooth communication interface. It enables users to authorize blockchain transactions directly on the device, with PIN entry and explicit confirmation before signing.

  • Secure generation and storage of cryptographic keys within a removable smart-card Secure Element.
  • Transaction signatures in connected (synchronous) or standalone (asynchronous) modes.
  • PIN entry and signature approval directly on the terminal.
  • Support for removable smart cards with EAL5+ / EAL6 assurance levels, depending on the card.
  • Bare-metal firmware architecture, with reflashing and integrity-check procedures.
  • USB On-The-Go (OTG) connectivity for compatible Android devices.

Technical specifications: approximately 150 mA at 5 V (0.75 W); 87.9 × 68.2 × 15 mm.

Download the CryptoTerminal v2 technical specification (PDF)

CryptoTerminal v1

EtherTrust CryptoTerminal v1 with keypad and removable smart card

CryptoTerminal v1 is the original USB-connected model, combining a smart-card reader, an integrated keypad and a dedicated display. It provides hardware-protected key management and transaction signing with direct user authorization.

  • Cryptographic key generation and protected storage in a removable smart card.
  • Synchronous or asynchronous digital signature operations.
  • PIN entry and transaction confirmation on the terminal itself.
  • Use of an EAL5+-certified removable Secure Element.
  • Bare-metal operation with firmware that can be reflashed.
  • USB serial communication with a host computer.

Download the CryptoTerminal v1 technical specification (PDF)

EtherTrust Cryptocurrency Smartcard (CCSC)

The EtherTrust Cryptocurrency Smartcard (CCSC) provides the protected cryptographic functions used by CryptoTerminal. It can generate or import elliptic-curve keys, derive keys according to BIP32, and produce ECDSA signatures for applications such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. The card supports up to 16 elliptic-curve keys.

Three PIN roles — Administrator, User and User2 — control access to different functions. A dedicated 16 KB non-volatile read/write memory area, protected by the User2 PIN, is available for sensitive data. Application identifier (AID): 010203040500.

Demonstrations & Research