FPGA & CPLD
Products (6357)
EP20K300EQC240-3 - APEX-20KE 300K Gate FPGA | Intel | PQFP-240
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K300EQC240-3 is a high-density APEX-20KE family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering 300,000 typical gates, 11,520 logic elements, and 147,456 bits of embedded memory, housed in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP-240 / BFQFP-240) surface-mount package. The "-3" speed grade is the third-fastest commercial grade in the APEX-20KE lineup, balancing maximum operating frequency against cost. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that the end-user can reprogram after manufacture. FPGAs sit in the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) - alongside CPLDs, SPLDs, and PALs - and belong to the digital logic / ASIC-prototyping class of semiconductors. The APEX-20KE family introduced MultiCore architecture, integrating look-up tables, embedded system blocks (ESBs) for memory, and dedicated I/O elements on a single die. Key features include 152 maximum user I/O pins, four Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs) for clock management, hot-socketing support, multi-volt I/O compatibility (1.8V core / 2.5V, 3.3V, 5.0V tolerant I/O), and in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface. The PQFP-240 package offers gull-wing leads on a 1.0 mm pitch and supports commercial operating temperature ranges (0C to +85C). Architecturally, the EP20K300E combines LUT-based logic with embedded system blocks that can be configured as FIFO, dual-port RAM, or CAM, all interconnected via a high-bandwidth MultiTrack routing fabric. The four PLLs enable sophisticated clock-domain management for multi-rate telecommunications and DSP pipelines. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, DSP co-processing in baseband systems, high-speed glue logic, bus bridging (PCI to local bus), and ASIC prototyping for designs up to ~250K usable gates. Designers also deploy the EP20K300E in industrial control, video processing front-ends, and military/aerospace pre-production validation. When designing with this part, ensure the Quartus II (or legacy MAX+PLUS II) tool flow is used, plan JTAG chain ordering carefully, and respect 1.8V VCCINT supply ramp sequencing to avoid in-rush latch-up. Legacy parts may require lifecycle planning since the APEX-20KE family reached end-of-life; contact Intel FPGA for last-time-buy windows.
EP20K300EQC240-3N - 300K-Gate APEX 20KE FPGA, 240-PQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP20K300EQC240-3N is a 300,000-gate APEX 20KE series FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) housed in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP / 240-BFQFP) package, built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process and powered from a 1.8 V core supply. An FPGA is a programmable logic device that contains an array of configurable logic blocks (LABs), embedded memory, and programmable interconnects that engineers can reconfigure after manufacture to implement custom digital hardware. The APEX 20KE family belongs to the MultiCore architecture tier of PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices) — sitting within the wider taxonomy: FPGA → Programmable Logic → Logic IC → Integrated Circuit. It introduced system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration by combining look-up table (LUT) based logic with embedded memory blocks, enabling single-chip implementation of glue logic, datapath, and control state machines. Key headline specifications for the EP20K300EQC240-3N include 300,000 system gates, 11,520 logic cells (LES), 152,832 bits of embedded RAM, a maximum internal operating frequency of 299 MHz, and a propagation delay of 1.68 ns. The device exposes 152 user I/Os and supports MultiVolt I/O for interfacing with 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and 5.0 V logic families. The "-3" speed grade and the "N" suffix designate the commercial temperature range (0 °C to 85 °C). The APEX 20KE architecture combines four-input LUTs with distributed and column-based embedded memory (ESBs — Embedded System Blocks), giving designers a flexible mix of logic and on-chip RAM without needing an external memory companion. The 0.22 µm CMOS process, quad flat pack packaging, and 1.8 V core make this part representative of late-1990s / early-2000s mid-density programmable logic, suitable for datapath, telecom interface, and embedded control designs that pre-date modern Cyclone or Lattice ECP5 deployments. Typical applications include telecommunications line-card glue logic, PCI / ISA bridge controllers, industrial automation controllers, video processing front-ends, custom DSP datapaths, and military / aerospace systems requiring long-lifecycle programmable logic with PQFP through-hole-friendly packaging for reworkability. When designing with this part, plan for a Quartus II (or legacy MAX+PLUS II) tool flow with configuration via a serial configuration device such as the EPC2 or EPC8. The 240-pin PQFP footprint gives generous board-level routing room but occupies more PCB area than modern BGA equivalents; thermal management is generally passive because the CMOS core dissipation is modest at typical 150–250 MHz operation. This page synthesizes distributor pricing snapshots from DigiKey and Mouser, same-family APEX 20KE drop-in alternatives (drawn from the XAIPART Site MPN list), and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K300EQI240-2X - 728K-Gate APEX-20KE FPGA | Altera | 240-BFQFP
The Altera EP20K300EQI240-2X is an APEX-20KE field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 728,000 gates, 11,520 logic elements, 147,456 RAM bits, and 152 user I/Os, packaged in a 240-pin BFQFP. It operates from a 1.8 V core supply (1.71 V to 1.89 V) over an industrial temperature range of -40C to 100C, making it suitable for thermally demanding systems. The speed grade represented by the -2X ordering code positions this part as a high-performance member of the APEX-20KE family. An FPGA is an integrated circuit whose internal logic fabric is configured after manufacturing, allowing hardware functions to be customized without a mask change. FPGAs fit within the hierarchy field-programmable gate array -> programmable logic device -> embedded semiconductor -> integrated circuit. This device also belongs to Altera's APEX 20K family, which was introduced as a system-on-a-programmable-chip platform and can integrate multiple logic, memory, and I/O functions in a single programmable device. Key features of the EP20K300EQI240-2X include 11,520 logic elements arranged in 1,152 LABs/CLBs, 147,456 total RAM bits, and 152 user I/Os. The device provides 728,000 system gates, enough for complex state machines, interface controllers, and custom coprocessing functions. The 0.22 um CMOS process and 1.8 V core help reduce dynamic power compared with earlier 3.3 V or 5 V programmable logic. Archived listings also indicate a maximum internal frequency of 350 MHz and a propagation delay of 2.29 ns for the -2X speed variant, although final timing should always be verified from the device datasheet. Because the APEX-20KE family uses Altera's MultiCore architecture, the EP20K300EQI240-2X merges look-up-table logic, embedded memory, and product-term functionality in one fabric. This architectural flexibility is useful in designs that combine control logic, data buffering, and register-heavy datapaths. The I/O count and gate density fit applications in telecommunications, industrial control, video capture, and development platforms where an off-the-shelf programmable device is preferred over a custom ASIC. Typical applications include line-card protocol bridging, industrial machine controllers, medical instrument front ends, and early SOPC prototyping. The 152 user I/Os in the 240-pin package offer moderate interface width, sufficient for local busses, UARTs, SPI, and parallel control signals. For wider parallel data busses, a larger BGA version may be needed; however, this PQFP version is easier to hand-assemble and verify during prototyping. When designing with the EP20K300EQI240-2X, pay attention to the 1.8 V core supply and separate I/O supplies. Use multiple decoupling capacitors close to each power pin, and confirm whether the design requires an industrial-temperature part because this I-grade variant is rated from -40C to 100C. Since the APEX-20KE family is obsolete, sourcing should be arranged through qualified distributors or verified brokers. This page synthesizes logic resource data, industrial temperature coverage, drop-in APEX-20KE alternatives, and obsolescence guidance into one resource that is not found in a single manufacturer datasheet page.
EP20K300EQI240-3N - APEX 20KE 300K Gates FPGA | Altera (Intel)
The Altera (Intel) EP20K300EQI240-3N is a member of the APEX 20KE family of SRAM-based FPGAs, integrating 300,000 system gates, 11,520 logic elements (LEs), and 152 Kbits of embedded memory in a single 240-pin PowerQuad Flat Pack (PQFP/BQFP) package. It is built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process and operates from a 1.8 V nominal core supply (1.71 V min, 1.89 V max), making it a 1.8 V device in the legacy APEX-20K architecture. What is an APEX-20K FPGA? APEX (Advanced Logic Element Matrix) is Altera's multi-core, multi-volt family of SRAM-based FPGAs targeting high-density logic, embedded memory, and PLLs in a single die. APEX sits in the broader taxonomy: programmable logic device (PLD) -> complex PLD (CPLD) / FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> APEX 20K family. Within that family, APEX 20KE is the 1.8 V variant of the original APEX 20K (2.5 V), and 'EQ' indicates the enhanced commercial/extended temperature range and '-3' is the speed grade. Key features include 152 user I/O pins (with 4 dedicated inputs), embedded system blocks that combine LUTs, product-term logic and memory, on-chip PLLs for clock management, multi-volt I/O (1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V), and an in-system programmability interface via Altera's ByteBlaster or MasterBlaster cable through the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG port. The die offers 1,536 flip-flops distributed across embedded logic array blocks (LABs) and supports up to 152 maximum user I/O. Typical applications include high-volume telecom line cards, industrial control and instrumentation, data-path glue logic, glue-logic integration alongside processors, and legacy designs where a 1.8 V APEX 20KE footprint is required. The 'I' temperature grade extends operation to -40 °C to +105 °C, suitable for industrial enclosures. When designing with this part, verify the Quartus II or MAX+PLUS II legacy bitstream and software support, as APEX 20K is end-of-life; new designs should consider Cyclone or MAX families. JTAG programming is recommended for production programming and boundary-scan testing. This page synthesizes distributor pricing and stock data for EP20K300EQI240-3N alongside parametric drop-in alternatives from the same APEX 20KE family, providing information gain not available on any single distributor product page.
EP20K30EFC144-1 - APEX-20K FPGA 30K Gates 144-LQFP | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP20K30EFC144-1 is a member of the APEX-20K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) housed in a 144-pin LQFP (Low-profile Quad Flat Pack) package. It integrates 30,000 typical gates and 1,200 logic elements across 120 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), with 24,576 bits of embedded RAM and 92 user I/O pins. The device operates from a 1.71V to 1.89V core supply and is built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process with MultiCore™ system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device containing programmable logic blocks, interconnect, and I/O cells that engineers can configure after manufacturing to implement custom digital circuits. APEX-20K devices combine look-up table (LUT)-based logic, embedded memory, and high-speed I/O on a single die, occupying the middle tier of the programmable logic hierarchy: PLD → CPLD → FPGA → SoC FPGA. The -1 speed grade indicates the slowest of three commercial temperature-grade speed bins, optimized for cost-sensitive designs where 160 MHz internal performance is sufficient. Key features include MultiCore™ architecture combining fine-grained LUT logic with embedded cache logic, in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG, built-in clock management with up to four phase-locked loops, and LVTTL/LVCMOS/PCI-compatible I/O support. The device supports multi-voltage I/O and provides per-pin configuration for slew rate, drive strength, and bus-hold. The -1 commercial speed grade is rated for 0°C to 85°C operation, while industrial and military temperature variants exist in the same family. Typical applications for the EP20K30EFC144-1 include telecommunications line cards, glue logic for embedded processors, peripheral controllers in industrial automation, and PCI bridge functions in legacy PC architectures. The 92 user I/Os and 144-pin LQFP footprint make it suitable for prototype builds and moderate-volume production where fine-pitch BGA soldering is undesirable. Designers migrating from APEX-20K to Cyclone or Cyclone II should verify logic utilization, memory depth, and I/O standard compatibility before re-targeting bitstreams. When designing with this part, observe the 1.71V-1.89V core supply tolerance: a 1.80V nominal regulator with ±5% accuracy is acceptable, but bench testing with marginal supplies can cause configuration failures. Decouple VCCINT and VCCIO planes with 0.1 µF ceramic capacitors placed within 5 mm of each supply pin, and follow Altera's APEX-20K Hardware Reference Manual guidelines for JTAG chain ordering when programming multi-device chains.
EP20K30EFC144-1N - APEX-20KE 30K Gates FPGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K30EFC144-1N is a member of the APEX-20KE family of Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLD/FPGA) delivering 30,000 gates, 1,200 logic elements, and 24,576 bits of embedded SRAM in a 144-pin FineLine BGA (FBGA) package with 93 user I/Os. Built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process and powered by a 1.8 V core supply, it operates up to an internal frequency of 160 MHz with a propagation delay of 1.68 ns. The 'N' suffix denotes a commercial-grade 0 °C to 85 °C operating temperature range. What is an APEX-20KE device? The APEX-20KE family belongs to the broader Programmable Logic Device (PLD) hierarchy - PLD -> CPLD/FPGA -> SOPC (System-On-a-Programmable-Chip) -> SRAM-based programmable logic. APEX-20KE combines MultiCore architecture, integrating LUT-based logic for data-path and DSP-intensive functions with product-term-based logic for glue-logic and control, plus embedded memory blocks for system-level integration in a single chip. Key features include a MultiCore architecture combining LUT and product-term logic, 24,576 bits of embedded SRAM distributed across the fabric, in-system programmability via an IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface, and dedicated high-speed I/O support including LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and GTL+ signalling. The device supports hot-socketing and multi-voltage I/O operation, allowing mixed-voltage interfacing in heterogeneous designs. From a technical standpoint, the EP20K30EFC144-1N leverages SRAM-based configuration memory - the device must be configured at power-up from an external PROM or flash. The MultiCore architecture pairs up to 1,200 Logic Elements (LEs), each containing a 4-input LUT, programmable register, and carry chain, with Embedded System Blocks (ESBs) that can be used as either dual-port SRAM or product-term logic. This dual nature makes APEX-20KE well-suited for designs requiring both high-density datapath processing and traditional state-machine control. Typical applications include telecommunications line-card interfaces, industrial control glue logic, PCI bus interface bridges, and legacy ASIC replacement in networking and test equipment. The 1.8 V core, multi-voltage I/O, and integrated memory make it particularly suitable for designs previously implemented with discrete logic and small SRAM banks. Design consideration: SRAM-based configuration means the EP20K30EFC144-1N requires an external configuration device (EPC2, EPC4, or compatible flash) and loses its configuration on power-down. Designers must budget board space and BOM cost for the configuration memory and account for the configuration time during system startup. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in APEX-20KE alternatives sharing the 144-pin FBGA footprint, and practical design notes not found in the standalone datasheet.
EP20K30EFC144-2X - 30K Gate APEX 20K FPGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K30EFC144-2X is an APEX 20K programmable logic device delivering roughly 30,000 typical gates, 93 user I/O pins, and a 1.8 V core supply in a 144-ball FineLine BGA (LBGA/FBGA) package. It belongs to the loadable PLD/FPGA family that Altera designed for medium-density logic, protocol bridging, and legacy communications boards. An FPGA is a field-programmable gate array, a semiconductor device containing configurable logic blocks and programmable interconnects that can be rewired after manufacturing. A CPLD is a related complex programmable logic device that emphasizes predictable timing and product-term macrocells. The APEX 20K family combined both concepts, integrating LUT-based logic elements, product-term macrocells, and embedded memory into one die. In the component taxonomy, this device belongs to programmable logic / FPGA and CPLD / logic integrated circuits / semiconductors. Key features of the EP20K30EFC144-2X include 144 ball terminals in a square FBGA, 93 usable I/O pins, a 1.8 V core voltage, and 0.22 um fabrication technology. Distribution listings describe the family as a 30K-gate APEX 20K device with 192 macrocells, and the -2X suffix denotes a specific speed/timing option within the device family. The FPGA is loadable, meaning it can be configured in-system after every power-up. From an architecture standpoint, APEX 20K introduced a multi-core block model in which look-up-table logic coexists with embedded system blocks and high-speed interconnect. This lets the part handle both data-path logic and register-heavy state machines on one component. The internal 1.8 V core reduces dynamic power compared with older 5 V and 3.3 V PLDs, while I/O pins can interface to legacy 3.3 V systems through appropriate I/O banks. The FBGA package provides a compact board footprint on a square ball grid. Typical uses for this device included telecom line-card control, industrial automation I/O, machine-vision frame capture, test-pattern generation, bus bridging, and general digital glue logic on legacy embedded boards. Because APEX 20K has been discontinued, designers should treat the EP20K30EFC144-2X as an end-of-life part for legacy maintenance. When layout allows, the same 144-FBGA footprint can accept higher- or lower-speed EP20K30E derivatives, so a board spin can be avoided. This page provides a curated combination of distributor price trends, stock levels, same-package alternatives, and practical field-proven design notes that are not ordinarily available from a single distributor page.
EP20K30EFC144-3 - 30K APEX-20K FPGA, 144-LQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K30EFC144-3 is a member of the APEX-20K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), built on a 0.22 um CMOS MultiCore architecture that integrates embedded system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) blocks. The device delivers approximately 30,000 system gates with 1,200 logic elements, 24,576 bits of embedded RAM, and 92 user I/Os, housed in a 144-pin LQFP package (20x20 mm). An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and dedicated I/O cells. FPGAs sit within the broader taxonomy: programmable logic device (PLD) -> FPGA -> programmable logic -> digital IC -> semiconductor. The APEX-20K family combines look-up-table based logic, embedded memory (ESB), and a special-purpose MultiCore architecture that supports system-level functions such as PCI, DDR, and processor interfaces without external glue logic. Key features of the EP20K30EFC144-3 include a 160 MHz internal operating frequency, a propagation delay of approximately 1.68 ns, support for 408 user I/O pins (varies by package - the 144-LQFP exposes 92), and a 1.8V core supply. The MultiCore architecture integrates lookup-table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory in a single die, allowing designers to mix datapath, state-machine, and on-chip buffering functions on one device. The "E" suffix denotes enhanced features, "FC" indicates the 144-pin LQFP package, and "-3" marks the speed grade. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial control boards, and DSP coprocessing where a programmable logic device with embedded memory offers a more flexible alternative to fixed-function ASICs. The APEX-20K architecture supports high-speed LVDS, PCI bus interfaces, and on-chip dual-port RAM for FIFO and ping-pong buffer designs. Combined with the Quartus-II development toolchain (legacy support via MAX+PLUS II), the device remains usable in long-lifecycle systems where re-programmability is a design requirement.
EP20K30EFC144-3N - APEX 20K 30K Gates FPGA | Altera / Intel
The Altera (now Intel) EP20K30EFC144-3N is a member of the APEX 20K family of programmable logic devices, integrating 30,000 typical gates, 1,200 logic elements, and 24,576 RAM bits into a 144-pin FineLine BGA package. Built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process with a 1.8 V core supply, this device implements Altera's MultiCore architecture combining look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded system blocks for system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration. Per the manufacturer datasheet DS-APEX20K-5.1, the part carries a -3 speed grade and is rated for a commercial operating junction temperature of 0 °C to 85 °C. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit containing configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that designers can program after manufacture to implement arbitrary digital functions. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable logic hierarchy, above CPLDs, and bridge the gap between fixed-function ASICs (high NRE cost, low unit cost) and software-driven microcontrollers (lower performance, higher flexibility). The APEX 20K family was Altera's first PLD family to embed both logic and dual-port RAM blocks on the same die, enabling single-chip subsystems that previously required a logic device plus an external memory companion. Key features of the EP20K30EFC144-3N include up to 408 user I/Os (per the verified aggregator data), 1.68 ns pin-to-pin propagation delay in the -3 speed grade, and an internal performance figure listed as 160 MHz. The MultiCore fabric lets designers place LUT-based register-intensive functions, product-term-based wide combinational paths, and embedded memory blocks (ESBs) in the same device. Four phase-locked loops (PLLs) support on-chip clock multiplication and deskew, removing the need for external clock-management ICs in most designs. Typical applications include glue-logic consolidation in telecommunications line cards, industrial control backplanes, PCI bridge / bus-interface functions, and low-to-mid-density DSP pre-/post-processing pipelines. Because the APEX 20K family integrates SRAM-style configuration memory, the device must be reconfigured at every power-up from a parallel PROM or a microcontroller, which is a critical boot-circuit consideration. When designing with this part, note that the APEX 20K family is mature and supported mainly by legacy Quartus II design software (versions up to 13.0). Engineers migrating to new designs should evaluate Cyclone or MAX families, while this part remains valuable for maintenance of legacy production systems. The 144-pin FBGA footprint is the layout-critical constraint — verify PCB land pattern against the package datasheet before re-spinning any board.
EP20K30EFC324-1 - APEX-20K 30KLE FPGA 324-FBGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP20K30EFC324-1 is a member of the APEX-20KE family of field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) integrating 30,000 typical logic elements (30KLE), 24,576 RAM bits, and 128 maximum user I/O pins in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package. The part operates from a 1.71 V to 1.89 V core supply and is rated for commercial temperature grades. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that the designer can configure after manufacture. APEX-20K belongs to the PLD -> CPLD/FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> programmable logic IC hierarchy, providing system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration. The MultiCore architecture of APEX-20KE combines look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks in one fabric. Key features of the EP20K30EFC324-1 include 30,000 typical logic elements (LEs), 24,576 total RAM bits, 128 maximum user I/O, and 1.8 V core operation. The device supports LVDS I/O and embeds an enhanced clock management capability with up to four phase-locked loops (PLLs). The 324-FBGA package is a 19 mm x 19 mm FineLine BGA suitable for high-density PCB designs and high-speed signal fan-out. From an architectural perspective, the APEX-20KE family uses a four-level hierarchy (Logic Array, MegaLAB, Logic Element, Embedded System Block) and embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory and product-term logic. Hot-socketing and JTAG boundary-scan testability are supported. The fabric is configured by an industry-standard serial configuration device. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, ASIC prototyping, glue-logic consolidation, DSP co-processing front-ends, and industrial control boards where the 30KLE density is appropriate. The 324-FBGA footprint is appropriate for high-I/O designs (128 user I/O). When designing with this part, confirm the configuration scheme (passive serial, passive parallel synchronous, passive parallel asynchronous, JTAG) and use Altera Quartus II for synthesis and place-and-route.
EP20K30EFC324-1X - APEX 20KE FPGA, 30K Gates, 324-BGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K30EFC324-1X is a member of the APEX 20KE programmable logic device family, providing 30,000 typical gates, 1,200 logic elements (LEs), and 24,576 bits of embedded SRAM in a 324-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA, 19x19 mm) package. It is built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process with a 1.71 V–1.89 V core supply and supports LVDS I/O, MultiCore™ architecture integrating LUT logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks for system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) designs. A field programmable gate array (FPGA) is a reprogrammable semiconductor device whose logic function is defined by the customer after manufacture, unlike an ASIC whose function is fixed at tape-out. FPGAs sit at the intersection of microcontrollers and custom silicon in the broader programmable logic taxonomy: PLD -> CPLD -> FPGA -> SoC FPGA. APEX 20KE was the first family to embed dedicated LVDS interfaces, dual-port RAM, and content-addressable memory (CAM), making it well-suited for high-speed datapath and interface bridging applications in telecom, networking, and DSP prototyping. Key features of the EP20K30EFC324-1X include 128 maximum user I/O pins, four dedicated inputs, four phase-locked loops (PLLs), up to 24576 RAM bits organized as embedded system blocks (ESBs), and a tPD (pin-to-pin logic delay) of 1.91 ns. The device supports in-system programmability via the passive serial, JTAG, and Altera Fast Passive Parallel configuration interfaces, enabling rapid prototyping and field upgrades without removing the part from the board. The APEX 20KE MultiCore™ architecture combines lookup-table (LUT) logic for register-intensive functions with embedded product-term logic for wide combinatorial paths, all interconnected by a four-level hierarchical routing network called the DirectDrive™ fabric. This mixed-logic approach lets designers place time-critical state machines in product-term logic while implementing wide datapath arithmetic in LUTs, optimizing both speed and density on the same die. Typical applications include telecom line-card glue logic, custom peripheral bus bridges, DSP preprocessing front-ends, and industrial control state machines. The 1.8 V core combined with LVDS-capable I/O also makes the part attractive for legacy parallel-bus interfaces and PCI bridge designs where a modern SoC FPGA would be oversized for the task. When designing with the EP20K30EFC324-1X, pay close attention to I/O bank grouping because LVDS pairs require matched differential trace lengths of within 200 mil (≈5 mm). Decoupling must include at least eight 0.1 µF ceramics distributed around the BGA perimeter, and the configuration scheme (typically passive serial with an EPC2 or EPC4 configuration PROM) should be validated against Quartus II programmer files before tape-out. The APEX 20KE family is in last-time-buy status; long-lifecycle designs should qualify second-source logic carefully. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, package-same drop-in alternatives from the same Altera/Intel APEX 20KE family, and practical design notes not found in the original datasheet alone.
EP20K30EFC324-2X - APEX-20KE FPGA 30K Gates 324-FBGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP20K30EFC324-2X is a member of the APEX-20KE Field Programmable Gate Array family, delivering approximately 30,000 system gates with 1,200 logic elements and 24,576 RAM bits in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package. Fabricated on a 0.22 micrometer process and operating from a 1.71V to 1.89V core supply (1.8V nominal), the device integrates embedded memory and product-term logic in a single MultiCore architecture, targeting system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) designs. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit whose digital logic functionality is defined after manufacturing through a configuration bitstream. Unlike a CPLD, an FPGA uses an array of small look-up tables (LUTs), flip-flops, programmable interconnect, and embedded block RAM. The APEX-20KE family extends this with embedded product-term logic for register-intensive glue functions. Within the broader semiconductor hierarchy, an FPGA sits above CPLDs and below ASICs in terms of integration density, offering high logic capacity, reprogrammability, and embedded memory for digital signal processing, bus interface, and glue-logic roles. Key specifications of the EP20K30EFC324-2X include 30K typical gates, 1,200 logic elements, 24,576 total RAM bits, a 2.69 ns pin-to-pin delay, 128 maximum user I/O pins, and up to 4 phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management. The device supports LVDS I/O and multiple I/O standards, and it is supplied in a 324-pin FineLine BGA (19x19 mm) package suitable for high-density PCB designs. The -2X speed grade indicates enhanced performance over the standard -2 grade at extended temperature. The MultiCore architecture combines LUT-based logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks, allowing designers to map register-intensive functions to product-term arrays and datapath functions to LUTs. Embedded RAM supports single- and dual-port operation, enabling on-chip FIFOs and buffering without external memory for moderate workloads. This architectural balance was distinctive for its era, prefiguring the heterogeneous fabric used in modern SoC FPGAs. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial control, glue-logic and bus bridging on legacy systems, ASIC prototyping, and embedded DSP preprocessing. The wide I/O count makes the device suitable for parallel datapaths, memory controllers, and multi-protocol bridge functions where 128 user I/O pins are required. Designers should note that the APEX-20KE family is a mature, NRND/EOL-prone product line; verify current lifecycle status with Intel before committing to new designs. The 1.8V core supply and 324-FBGA package demand multi-layer PCB design with controlled-impedance routing and careful power-plane decoupling. Configuration data must be loaded from a PROM or flash memory at power-up. This page consolidates distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives within the APEX-20KE family, and practical FPGA design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, providing a one-stop reference for engineers specifying the EP20K30EFC324-2X.
EP20K30EFC324-3 - APEX 20KE 30K LUT FPGA, 324-BGA | Altera
The Altera (now Intel) EP20K30EFC324-3 is a member of the APEX 20KE programmable logic device family, integrating 30,000 typical gates (look-up table logic), 128 macrocells, 24,576 RAM bits, and approximately 1,200 logic elements into a single MultiCore architecture device. It is housed in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package and operates from a 1.71 V to 1.89 V core supply (1.8 V nominal). The -3 speed grade delivers internal timing that supports the targeted 160 MHz clock frequency class of the APEX 20KE family, making it appropriate for system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) designs. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that combines configurable logic blocks (LUTs), programmable interconnect, and embedded memory. The APEX 20KE family in particular integrates look-up table logic for register-intensive functions, product-term logic for arithmetic paths, and embedded memory blocks, sitting in the broader hierarchy: FPGA -> programmable logic device (PLD) -> logic IC -> integrated circuit. APEX 20KE was Altera's first SOPC-integrating PLD family, widely used as a precursor to the modern Cyclone/Stratix families. Key features include 128 macrocells, 24,576 total RAM bits, 120 user I/O pins (per published catalog data), LVDS I/O support, in-system programmability via JTAG, and MultiCore architecture for combining LUT-based and product-term logic on the same die. The 324-FBGA package provides a compact 19 mm x 19 mm footprint suitable for high-density boards, with a peak reflow compliance suitable for standard SMT assembly. The device is implemented on a 1.8 V, 0.18 micrometer CMOS process, which balances low power consumption with sufficient drive strength for LVDS signaling. The integrated memory blocks permit FIFOs, dual-port RAM, and CAM functions without external SRAM, simplifying SOPC integration. I/O banks support a mix of single-ended and LVDS I/O standards, enabling high-speed chip-to-chip links. The MultiCore architecture allows LUT logic and product-term logic to be mixed freely, which is helpful for datapath/control hybrid designs. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial control and automation, ASIC prototyping, glue logic replacement, video/Imaging pipeline front-ends, and legacy SOPC designs where the APEX 20KE was the original Altera solution. Its LVDS support also makes it suitable for backplane interfacing and high-speed serial-to-parallel conversion. When designing with this part, ensure JTAG chain integrity, follow Altera's recommended decoupling scheme on each power pin, and confirm Quartus version compatibility for the APEX 20KE device family. Note that this device is in mature lifecycle status - new designs should consider Cyclone or MAX families.
EP20K30EFI144-2X - APEX 20KE FPGA 1200 Cells 93 I/O 144-BGA | Intel
The Intel EP20K30EFI144-2X is a member of the APEX 20KE family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering 1200 logic elements, 24576 RAM bits, and 93 user I/O pins in a 144-ball FineLine BGA package. The device is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process, operates from a 1.8 V core supply, and is rated for industrial temperature ranges. The 'EFI144' package suffix denotes an Enhanced (E) industrial-grade part in a 144-pin FineLine BGA. What is an APEX 20KE FPGA? The APEX (Advanced Programmable Element Matrix) 20KE family is a multi-vendor-compatible programmable logic architecture combining look-up table (LUT)-based logic elements with embedded system blocks (ESBs) that double as RAM, ROM, or product-term logic. In the broader taxonomy, an FPGA is a programmable logic device (PLD) within the semiconductor integrated circuit family, sitting between ASICs and discrete logic in flexibility and density. APEX 20KE parts were widely deployed in telecom, networking, and DSP applications in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Key features of the EP20K30EFI144-2X include 1200 logic elements, 192 macrocells, 24576 embedded RAM bits, 93 maximum user I/O, and 1.8 V core operation. The device supports in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG, multi-vendor I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, GTL+, SSTL, HSTL), and dedicated clock and PLL resources. The 144-ball FineLine BGA package provides a compact footprint while preserving sufficient I/O count for typical glue-logic and DSP datapath designs. Architecturally, the APEX 20KE combines a MegaLAB structure with embedded system blocks, allowing designers to trade logic density against memory width. The LUT-based logic elements support cascade chains for wide datapaths, while the ESBs can be configured as dual-port RAM or FIFO buffers. Hardware multipliers are not present in the 20KE family, so DSP functions are typically implemented using LUT-based multiplication or external co-processors. Typical applications for the EP20K30EFI144-2X include telecom interface cards, protocol bridging logic, low-density DSP preprocessing, industrial control state machines, and PCI bus interface glue logic. The industrial temperature grade makes it suitable for factory automation and outdoor telecom equipment. Note that the APEX 20KE family is end-of-life; modern Cyclone IV/V or Lattice ECP5 devices are recommended for new designs. When designing with this part, plan the I/O bank VCCIO assignments carefully because mixed-voltage standards require multiple supply rails. The Quartus II design tool (legacy versions supporting APEX 20KE) is required for bitstream generation. JTAG programming via a ByteBlaster or USB-Blaster download cable is the standard configuration path.
EP20K30EQC208-1 - APEX 20KE FPGA 1.8V 208-PQFP | Altera
The Altera EP20K30EQC208-1 is an APEX-20KE field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from the legacy Altera APEX 20K 1.8-V family, integrating 1,200 logic elements, 24,576 RAM bits, and 125 user I/O in a 208-pin BFQFP/PQFP package. It operates from a 1.71 V to 1.89 V core supply and uses the MultiCore architecture that combines look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory. The EQC208 suffix denotes the 208-pin quad flat pack package and the -1 speed grade. An FPGA is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric can be reprogrammed after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital hardware. Unlike fixed-function ASICs or simple CPLDs, designers configure LUTs, flip-flops, routing resources, and I/O pins to create processors, controllers, protocol engines, or signal interfaces. The EP20K30EQC208-1 is a representative 30K-gate-class FPGA; within a system hierarchy it functions as a programmable logic device, programmable gate array, or system-on-programmable-chip building block, often sitting between microprocessor glue logic and complex custom logic. Understanding this category is important for legacy system repair, reverse-engineering, and replacement decisions, because APEX 20KE devices belong to the early low-voltage 1.8-V FPGA generation that led to later Altera/Intel families. Key features include the -1 speed grade, the fastest timing option for this APEX 20KE 208-pin part, 24,576 embedded RAM bits for FIFOs or small buffers, and 125 configurable user I/O pins. The MultiCore architecture is notable because it integrates LUT-based FPGA logic with product-term logic normally found in CPLDs, allowing efficient state machines and decode logic without consuming extra logic cells. According to the published specification snapshot, the device uses 0.22-um CMOS technology and a 1.8-V core supply, which is lower than earlier 2.5-V/3.3-V programmable logic families and helps reduce dynamic power in legacy systems. At the architectural level, the 30K-gate capacity in Altera APEX terminology corresponds to approximately 1,200 logic elements. The 208-pin package gives designers enough I/O for moderate bus interfaces, memory control, and expansion. The APEX-20KE family also supports JTAG-based configuration and can be used with Altera configuration devices. Exact LAB, EAB, PLL, and clock-management block counts were not included in the verified source snippets, so engineers should consult the full APEX 20KE family datasheet for detailed architecture guidance before beginning a design. Typical applications include industrial control I/O, legacy bus bridging, video/imaging processing, telecommunication line-card logic, and obsolete-board repair. This FPGA is often chosen when no modern pin-compatible device exists and the original APEX 20KE logic implementation must be preserved. With its 24,576 RAM bits and 125 I/O pins, it is suited to moderately sized data interfaces, custom state machines, and capture/control logic in installed equipment. When designing with this device, conservatively account for the 1.8-V core supply and multiple I/O supply rails. Place decoupling capacitors near every core and I/O supply pin, and respect the thermally enhanced BFQFP package height information given in the Altera Device Package Information Data Sheet. Because the part is no longer high-volume production, verify the date code, lead finish, and available stock before finalizing a BOM. This page synthesizes verified distributor listings, package and family comparisons, and practical legacy-system guidance that are not consolidated in the Altera datasheet, helping engineers quickly validate availability, speed-grade alternatives, and design constraints for the EP20K30EQC208-1.
EP20K30EQC208-2 - APEX 20KE FPGA, 30K Gates, 208-PQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K30EQC208-2 is a member of the APEX 20KE family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) fabricated on a 1.8 V CMOS process and housed in a 208-pin Power Quad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP) package. The device integrates 30,000 typical gates, 1,200 logic elements, 24,576 RAM bits of embedded memory, and a MultiCore architecture combining look-up-table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks on a single die. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that contains an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells, allowing engineers to implement arbitrary digital logic that would otherwise require multiple discrete MSI/LSI components. APEX 20KE sits in the high-density programmable-logic hierarchy: programmable logic device (PLD) -> CPLD/FPGA -> high-density SRAM-based FPGA -> system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) platform. APEX 20KE was the industry's first PLD family to integrate LUT logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory into one MultiCore architecture, enabling SOPC integration on a single chip. Key features of the EP20K30EQC208-2 include 125 user I/O pins, 4 dedicated inputs, 24576 bits of embedded SRAM, a maximum clock frequency of 160 MHz, and a pin-to-pin propagation delay of 2.69 ns. The device operates from a 1.71 V to 1.89 V core supply with LVDS-compatible I/O support. Hot-socketing support, in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface, and built-in PCI compliance make the part suitable for plug-in card designs. The MultiCore architecture blends MegaLAB structures that group 16 Logic Elements with 1 Embedded System Block, allowing designers to mix register-intensive datapath logic, product-term control logic, and dual-port RAM within the same array. The 2.69 ns speed grade (-2 suffix) is the mid-tier timing bin; slower -1 and faster -3 grades also exist in the family. Typical applications include telecommunications interface cards, industrial control and factory automation, PCI bridge logic, network switching fabric glue logic, and legacy system upgrades where high-density programmable logic is required. The wide PQFP-208 footprint and SRAM-based configuration also make it well suited to evaluation platforms and ASIC prototyping. When designing with EP20K30EQC208-2, plan a stable 1.8 V core rail with bulk decoupling near the package and 0.1 uF ceramics at each supply pin; SRAM-based FPGAs require all supplies present before configuration is attempted, so a proper power-on-reset and CONFIG_DONE monitoring are essential. Operating junction temperature must stay within the industrial range, and JTAG programming requires the Altera (now Intel) Quartus II / Quartus Prime toolchain for bitstream generation. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, with cross-references to XAIPART site MPNs that share the APEX 20KE family.
EP20K30EQC208-3 - APEX 20KE FPGA, 30K Gates, 208-PQFP | Altera
The Altera EP20K30EQC208-3 is a member of the APEX-20KE family of programmable logic devices, integrating 30,000 gates, 1,200 logic elements, and 24,576 RAM bits in a 208-pin PQFP (28x28 mm) package. It operates from a 1.71V to 1.89V core supply and is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process with LVDS-compatible I/O support. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a type of integrated circuit whose logic function is defined by the user after manufacture. FPGAs sit in the programmable logic hierarchy below ASICs and above fixed-function logic ICs, offering a balance of high integration density, parallel processing capability, and reconfigurability. APEX-20KE parts specifically belong to Altera's MultiCore architecture, which embeds look-up-table logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks on a single die, enabling system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration. Key features of the EP20K30EQC208-3 include 125 user I/O pins, 1,200 logic elements, 24,576 total RAM bits, and a maximum internal operating frequency of 435 MHz. The device supports in-system programming via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface and is built around the 2.5V/3.3V low-voltage bus standard with 5V-tolerant I/O. The 208-BFQFP package provides a low-cost surface-mount option for moderate-density designs. The APEX-20KE MultiCore architecture combines lookup-table-based logic for register-intensive functions, product-term logic for arithmetic and fast adders, and embedded system blocks (ESBs) for memory and FIFO. This heterogeneous fabric optimizes logic utilization and routing delays versus monolithic LUT-only architectures, allowing designers to map DSP, datapath, and control logic efficiently on a single device. Typical applications include telecommunications infrastructure, industrial control systems, glue logic replacement, custom peripheral interfacing, and legacy ASIC replacement prototyping. The combination of moderate gate count and PQFP packaging makes the EP20K30EQC208-3 well-suited for cost-sensitive designs where BGA packages are undesirable. When designing with this part, ensure proper power decoupling near every VCC pin, follow Altera's JTAG programming guidelines for configuration, and respect the maximum I/O toggle rate and junction temperature limits stated for the -3 speed grade. This page combines distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design context that is not collected in a single place in the manufacturer datasheet, providing a synthesis useful for both new designs and legacy maintenance.
EP20K30ETC144-1 - APEX-20KE FPGA, 30K Gates, 144-LQFP | Altera
The Altera (now Intel) EP20K30ETC144-1 is a member of the APEX-20KE family of Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) ICs, delivering approximately 30,000 logic gates with 1,200 logic elements (LEs) housed in a 144-pin LQFP (TQFP) package measuring 20x20 mm. It supports a maximum of 92 user I/O pins and operates from a 1.71 V to 1.89 V (1.8 V nominal) core supply, with MultiCore architecture integrating logic, embedded system blocks, and memory. A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around a matrix of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory blocks, and programmable interconnect that can be reconfigured by the designer after manufacture. APEX-20KE belongs to the hierarchical PLD family: PLD -> CPLD -> FPGA -> programmable logic device -> logic IC. The APEX-20KE family introduced MultiCore architecture, which combines look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded array blocks (EABs) on a single die for SOPC (system-on-a-programmable-chip) integration. This makes the EP20K30ETC144-1 suitable for designs that mix glue logic, DSP functions, and small memory subsystems. Key features include 192 macrocells, 92 user I/Os, 4 dedicated inputs, a maximum internal frequency of 160 MHz, and 0.22 micrometer CMOS process technology. The device is built on a CMOS process with an LVTTL/LVCMOS compatible I/O standard. The 144-LQFP (also referenced as PQFP144, TQFP-144, or LFQFP-144 with 0.5 mm pitch) provides a low-cost, gull-wing surface-mount option for moderate-density designs where fine-pitch BGA packaging is not required. Typical applications include communications glue logic, industrial control interfaces, custom peripheral bridges, low-density data-path acceleration, and legacy system upgrades where a programmable logic replacement is needed. The industrial operating temperature range (0°C to 85°C) and 1.8 V core supply make it compatible with mixed-voltage system boards from the early 2000s. When designing with this device, ensure 1.8 V core and 3.3 V (or 2.5 V) I/O bank supplies are decoupled with 0.1 uF and 10 uF capacitors placed close to the supply pins. Configuration can be performed via JTAG or passive serial using a MAX-series CPLD or EPC-series configuration device. Use the Altera (Intel) Quartus design toolchain for compilation, fitting, and timing analysis. Note that the APEX-20KE family has been classified NRND by Intel; design teams should evaluate Cyclone or MAX-series parts for new designs.
EP20K30ETC144-1X - APEX-20KE FPGA, 30K Gates, 92 I/O, 144-LQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K30ETC144-1X is a member of the APEX-20KE Field Programmable Gate Array family, delivering 30,000 typical gates and 1,200 logic elements in a 144-pin LQFP (20x20 mm) surface-mount package. It integrates 24,576 bits of embedded RAM, 92 user I/Os, and 120 LABs/CLBs, and operates from a 1.71 V to 1.89 V core supply with a 0.22 µm CMOS process on a 1.8 V core. The device is rated for commercial 0 °C to 85 °C junction temperature operation. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) containing configurable logic blocks (LABs/CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that can be rewired after manufacture. FPGAs sit in the broader taxonomy of programmable logic (PLD -> CPLD -> FPGA -> SoC FPGA) and are used to implement arbitrary digital logic, glue logic, DSP pipelines, and full processor subsystems when the silicon is large enough. The APEX-20KE family is a MultiCore architecture that combines Look-Up Table (LUT)-based logic with embedded memory blocks (ESBs) for high-density, system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) designs. Key features include 1,200 logic elements (cells), 24,576 total RAM bits distributed across embedded system blocks, 92 user I/O pins, and 113,000 maximum system gates. The device supports in-system programmability via SRAM configuration, hot-socketing, and multi-voltage I/O. The 144-LQFP package uses a 0.5 mm pitch gull-wing lead frame and is suitable for cost-sensitive, moderate-density designs that do not require the fine-pitch or high-speed transceivers of newer families. The APEX-20KE architecture combines fine-grain LUTs with coarse-grain ESBs, allowing efficient implementation of wide datapath functions, multipliers, and small FIFOs. The 0.22 µm CMOS process is mature and supports the 1.8 V core voltage with 3.3 V/5 V-tolerant I/O via banked VCCIO pins (referenced in the datasheet), enabling direct interface to legacy TTL/CMOS peripherals without external level shifters. Typical applications include communications glue logic, industrial control interfaces, video and image processing front-ends, legacy ASIC prototyping, and educational development platforms. The 92 I/Os in a 144-LQFP package balance logic capacity with board-level routability for prototype through small-volume production runs. When designing with this device, plan the configuration scheme (EPC configuration device or microprocessor-driven passive serial/parallel), respect the I/O bank VCCIO grouping shown in the pinout, and ensure the Quartus II design tool (or MAX+PLUS II for legacy flows) supports the EP20K30E device variant. This page synthesizes distributor stock and pricing, verified pin-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes not consolidated in any single manufacturer or distributor page.
EP20K30ETC144-2N - APEX 20K FPGA 30K Gates 144-TQFP | Intel
The Intel EP20K30ETC144-2N is a member of the APEX 20K family of programmable logic devices, integrating 30,000 gates, 1,200 logic elements (cells), and 92 user I/Os in a 144-pin TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) surface-mount package. The device operates from a 1.8 V core supply with 0.22 µm CMOS process technology and is rated for an internal frequency of 160 MHz (435 MHz according to alternate catalog data) with 1.68 ns propagation delay. The 'E' suffix in the part number denotes an enhanced commercial operating temperature range of 0 °C to +85 °C. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device that combines the density of a gate array with field-programmability via an SRAM-based configuration cell array. The APEX 20K family introduced MultiCore architecture, integrating look-up tables (LUTs), product-term logic, and embedded system blocks (ESBs) for on-chip memory, allowing system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable logic hierarchy (CPLD -> FPGA -> SoC FPGA) and serve applications requiring high gate counts and parallel DSP-style processing. Key features include 30K equivalent gates, 1,200 logic cells, 192 macro cells, embedded memory via ESBs, JTAG boundary-scan support, multi-voltage I/O standards, and in-system programmability via SRAM configuration. The 144-pin TQFP package provides gull-wing leads for reflow soldering, suitable for cost-sensitive industrial, telecom, and embedded designs. The MultiCore architecture integrates LUTs and product-term logic in a unified fabric, allowing each logic element to be configured for either combinational or sequential logic. Embedded System Blocks provide dual-port RAM with up to 32 Kbits per block, enabling on-chip FIFOs and buffers. The 1.8 V core supply reduces dynamic power compared to older 5 V FPGAs. Typical applications include telecommunications glue logic, industrial control interfaces, custom bus bridges, and prototyping of ASIC designs. The 92 user I/Os allow direct interfacing to parallel buses, memory, and standard peripherals. Compared to modern Cyclone or Spartan families, the APEX 20K is legacy technology typically used for maintaining installed equipment. When designing with this device, confirm availability through Intel/Altera authorized distributors as APEX 20K parts are largely NRND (Not Recommended for New Designs). Design tooling requires the legacy Quartus II 4.2 or earlier MAX+PLUS II environment. The 144-TQFP footprint has a larger body than modern FPGAs, so mechanical compatibility with current 32-pin or 64-pin TQFPs cannot be assumed.
EP20K30ETC144-2X - APEX 20KE FPGA, 30K Gates, 92 I/O, 144-LQFP | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP20K30ETC144-2X is a member of the APEX 20KE family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) that integrates 192 macrocells, 30,000 typical gates, and 1,200 logic elements in a 144-pin LQFP (E-type temperature, -2 speed grade) surface-mount package. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a reprogrammable semiconductor device containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and I/O cells, allowing engineers to implement custom digital circuits without the cost or lead time of an ASIC. The APEX 20KE family extends the original APEX 20K line with enhanced MultiCore interconnect and embedded system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) support, placing it within the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLD) -> CPLD -> FPGA -> reprogrammable logic -> integrated circuit. Key features of the EP20K30ETC144-2X include 24,576 typical logic elements / system gates, 1,200 logic cells, 92 user I/O pins, internal frequency support up to 160 MHz, and a propagation delay of approximately 1.68 ns. The device operates from a 1.8 V core supply and supports multiple I/O standards via dedicated I/O banks. Its MultiCore architecture combines Look-Up Table (LUT)-based logic with embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory and arithmetic functions. The MultiCore architecture allows designers to allocate silicon resources between fine-grained LUT logic and coarse-grained EAB memory blocks, optimizing the device for DSP, datapath, or control-plane applications. Each EAB can be configured as RAM, ROM, or multiplier, giving the APEX 20KE flexibility that pure LUT-only FPGAs of the era lack. The 1.8 V core and 1.5 V internal supply rails are generated on-chip from the external VCCINT pin, simplifying power-tree design. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial control and glue logic, PCI bridge interfaces, and legacy system upgrades where pin-compatible migration to newer FPGA families is not required. The 144-pin LQFP package is footprint-friendly for through-hole-replacement designs and breadboard-friendly prototypes. The device is suitable for both volume production and end-of-life replacement scenarios, given its mature APEX 20KE tool chain (Quartus II versions prior to 13.0). When designing with the EP20K30ETC144-2X, ensure your Quartus II tool chain version supports the APEX 20KE device family and that the JTAG chain matches the 10-pin Altera header pinout. EAB-based memory blocks must be instantiated via MegaWizard Plug-Ins or LPM library calls, and unused I/O pins should be configured as tri-stated inputs with weak pull-ups to minimize in-rush current. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and design notes tailored to the EP20K30ETC144-2X - context not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K30ETC144-3N - 30K Gates APEX-20KE FPGA, 144-TQFP | Altera/Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K30ETC144-3N is an APEX-20KE family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 30,000 system gates, 1,200 logic elements, and 24,576 RAM bits in a 144-pin TQFP (also referenced as 144-LQFP) package. The 'E' suffix denotes the 1.8V core enhanced architecture, 'TC' indicates the commercial TQFP package with 92 user I/Os, and the '-3N' speed grade targets 1.68 ns propagation delay with industrial-grade thermal screening. The device is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process and is supported by the legacy Altera Quartus design tool chain for SOPC (System-On-a-Programmable-Chip) integration. What is an APEX-20KE FPGA? An APEX-20KE device is a programmable logic device (PLD) that combines look-up-table (LUT)-based logic, embedded system blocks (ESBs) that double as either product-term logic or dual-port RAM, and a MultiCore interconnect fabric. In the broader taxonomy, an APEX-20KE falls under FPGA -> programmable logic -> logic IC -> integrated circuit. The 'KE' variant improved upon the original APEX-20K by adding higher-speed I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, GTL+, SSTL-2/3, HSTL) and a more deterministic routing architecture aimed at communications and DSP backplane designs of the early 2000s. Key specifications include 1,200 logic elements, 24,576 embedded RAM bits configurable as 32×18 dual-port blocks, 192 macrocells, 92 user I/Os (with 4 fast-row clocks), 1.68 ns pin-to-pin propagation delay (speed grade -3), and a 435 MHz internal performance figure. The 1.8V core is supported by MultiVolt I/O drivers that allow the I/O banks to operate at 1.8V, 2.5V, or 3.3V, simplifying mixed-voltage interfacing to legacy ASICs and processors. The APEX-20KE MultiCore architecture combines fine-grained LUTs with coarse-grained ESBs, allowing designers to instantiate distributed RAM, ROM, FIFOs, and wide datapath arithmetic blocks without consuming glue logic. The deterministic interconnect minimizes timing closure iteration versus the original APEX-20K, which is critical for protocol bridges such as UTOPIA, POS-PHY, and RapidIO that were common when the family shipped. Typical applications include telecommunications line-card glue logic, serial-protocol bridges (UTOPIA/POS-PHY Level 2/3), industrial motor-control pre-processing, and military/aerospace retrofits of legacy designs. With 24 Kbits of block RAM and 92 I/Os, the EP20K30E is well suited to small-format coprocessors, custom bus controllers, and PCI target interfaces in CompactPCI or VME backplanes. A key design consideration is that the APEX-20KE family is mature and is now supported mainly for legacy system sustainment. New designs should evaluate Cyclone or MAX series devices unless a strict pin-compatible drop-in into an existing TQFP-144 PCB is required. Power estimation requires the Quartus PowerPlay early-power estimator, and unused I/O banks should be tied to a defined logic level to avoid leakage. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives from the APEX-20KE family, and practical design notes that are not consolidated in the legacy manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K400BC652-1 - 400K Gates APEX-20K FPGA, 502 I/O, BGA-652
The Altera (now Intel) EP20K400BC652-1 is a member of the APEX-20K family of programmable logic devices (PLDs) that integrates system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) functionality into a single high-density FPGA IC, providing 400K gates of logic capacity with 502 user I/O pins housed in a 652-ball BGA package. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device whose logic resources, routing, and I/O can be configured by the end user after manufacture. The APEX-20K family is a high-density PLD family incorporating MultiCore architecture that integrates look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks on a single die. FPGAs sit within the broader hierarchy: programmable logic device (PLD) -> field programmable gate array (FPGA) -> SRAM-based high-density FPGA -> SOPC-class integrated FPGA. They are typically used for glue logic, custom datapaths, bus interfaces, DSP, and prototype ASIC development. Key features of the EP20K400BC652-1 include 1664 macrocells of logic, a maximum of approximately 212,992 bits of embedded RAM, a propagation delay of 2.5 ns, and a supply voltage of 1.71 V to 1.89 V (2.5 V core supply standard). The device operates across the commercial temperature range of 0 °C to 85 °C and is delivered in a thermally enhanced 45 x 45 mm 652-BGA package suitable for high-density board designs. The APEX-20K architecture combines a fine-grained LUT fabric with embedded array blocks (EABs) that act as dual-port RAM, ROM, or FIFO memory. This MultiCore integration allows the EP20K400 to be partitioned between register-intensive datapath logic and block-memory functions in the same device, eliminating the need for an external memory companion in many designs. Typical applications include high-speed telecommunications interface cards, custom bus bridges, DSP pre/post-processing, and prototype ASIC emulation. The 502 user I/O count supports wide parallel buses and multiple serial interfaces in a single device. When designing with this part, pay attention to the 1.8 V core supply and the thermally enhanced BGA-652 footprint, which mandates reflow-compatible PCB stack-ups and a sufficient copper area for heat dissipation. Quartus II or MAX+PLUS II software is required for design entry. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in variants from the same APEX-20K family, and design considerations not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K400BC652-1V - APEX 20KC FPGA 400K Gates 652-BGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K400BC652-1V is a high-density APEX 20KC family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering 1,052,000 system gates with 212,992 logic elements, 16640 logic array blocks (macrocells), and 212,992 bits of embedded SRAM, housed in a 652-ball FineLine BGA package. The device integrates 502 user I/O pins and operates at a -1 speed grade with 2.5 ns Quad-Pin-Output clock-to-output, making it suitable for high-performance datapath and bus-interface designs. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs/LABs) connected via programmable interconnect, surrounded by programmable I/O cells. Modern FPGAs also embed dedicated memory blocks, multiplier/DSP slices, phase-locked loops, and high-speed transceivers. In the system hierarchy, the FPGA sits between discrete logic (CPLDs, gate arrays) and fixed-function ASICs - offering ASIC-class computational density with the time-to-market advantage of in-system reprogrammability. The APEX 20KC family specifically pioneered MultiCore architecture that mixes LUT-based logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory on a single die. Key features of the EP20K400BC652-1V include 502 maximum user I/O, support for multiple I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, GTL+, SSTL, LVDS, HSTL, LVPECL via the APEX 20K I/O cell), a core voltage of 1.8 V (VCCINT) with 2.5 V VCCIO supply, and in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface. The device also offers 4 dedicated clock inputs plus dual-purpose clock pins and supports the Altera MultiVolt I/O architecture for mixed-voltage bus interfacing. The EP20K400BC652-1V utilizes SRAM-based configuration cells that must be loaded from an external PROM or controller at power-up. Its MultiCore architecture combines lookup-table logic (for register-intensive functions), product-term logic (for fast arithmetic and decoding), and Embedded System Blocks (ESBs) for on-chip dual-port RAM and FIFO. The FineLine BGA-652 package exposes sufficient I/O to support wide parallel buses and multiple high-speed serial channels. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, high-speed data acquisition and instrumentation, network routers and switches, ASIC prototyping, DSP co-processing, and PCI/PCI-X bus interfacing. The 652-BGA package is chosen when designs require maximum I/O count and signal-integrity performance. When designing with the EP20K400BC652-1V, designers should plan configuration loading via a serial or parallel EPC device, allocate sufficient decoupling on each VCCINT/VCCIO plane, and verify signal-integrity on the 652-ball BGA using controlled-impedance traces. The -1 speed grade is the slowest tier of the APEX 20K family, so timing closure should be verified in Quartus II before fabrication. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same APEX 20K family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, providing engineering context beyond what the Altera datasheet alone offers.