An apparatus is provided for validating a device. The apparatus includes a first integrated circuit which stores a first key, is configured to generate a random number, and is configured to generate encrypted information using the generated random number and the first key. A control system is configured to: receive the encrypted information and random number from the first integrated circuit, send the encrypted information to a second integrated circuit positioned on the device, receive decrypted information from the second integrated circuit whereby the decrypted information is generated using the encrypted information and a second key, and compare the random number and decrypted information received from the respective integrated circuits to validate the device.