TuffServ® Encryption Module (TSEM)
TuffServ® Encryption Module (TSEM), from Ampex Data Systems Corporation, holds FIPS 140-3 certificate #4938 at overall level 2. The validation is active, with a sunset date of 2027-01-06. Below are its validation history, algorithm certificates and security policy, drawn from the NIST CMVP entry.
Caveat: Interim validation. No assurance of minimum security of SSPs (e.g., keys, bit strings) that are externally loaded, or of SSPs established with externally loaded SSPs
Certificate
| Certificate number | 4938 |
|---|---|
| Standard | FIPS 140-3 |
| Status | active |
| Sunset date | 2027-01-06 |
| Overall level | 2 |
| Module type | Hardware |
| Embodiment | Multi-Chip Embedded |
| Vendor | Ampex Data Systems Corporation · website |
Module description
Quoted from the NIST CMVP entry for this certificate.
The Ampex TSEM hardware module provides two inline (“bump in the wire”) SATA encryptors running at 6Gbps. The paired encryptors support line rate performance with a very modest latency penalty. Using an intelligent secure microcontroller, the TSEM imposes few requirements or dependencies on the host platform, facilitating rolling software patches and without compromising the system design. The module is designed to operate over the industrial temperature range (components rated -40 to +85) and requires a dedicated carrier board to support cooling and physical security.
Security level exceptions
- Operational environment: N/A
- Non-invasive security: N/A
- Life-cycle assurance: Level 3
- Mitigation of other attacks: N/A
Validation history
| Date | Type | Lab |
|---|---|---|
| 2025-01-07 | Initial | Acumen Security |
Status timeline
As observed by this tracker's snapshots. NIST publishes no dates for list moves; observation began 2026-08-21, so earlier changes carry no date.
- 2026-08-21: first observed by this tracker, status active
- Validation dates on record: 2025-01-07