FPGA & CPLD
Products (6357)
EP20K400CF672C7ES - APEX 20KC FPGA, 400K Gates, 672-FBGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K400CF672C7ES is a member of the APEX 20KC family of Loadable PLDs (programmable logic devices), delivering 400,000 system gates, 16,640 logic elements, and 212,992 bits of embedded memory in a 672-ball FineLine BGA package. Built on a 0.18 um (1.8 V core) CMOS process with 1.5 V I/O support, the device supports a maximum internal clock frequency of 375.94 MHz and a propagation delay of approximately 1.4 ns, and it provides 488 user I/O pins for high-density interconnect. What is an APEX 20KC FPGA? The APEX 20KC family is a single-chip programmable logic device family that integrates look-up table (LUT)-based logic, embedded system blocks (ESBs) for memory and FIFO, and I/O elements (IOEs) on a unified interconnect architecture (MultiCore architecture). It belongs to the broader hierarchy of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) -> programmable logic devices (PLDs) -> logic ICs -> integrated circuits. APEX 20KC parts are typically used for high-throughput data-path, bus-interface, and glue-logic functions where ASIC-class density is needed without NRE cost. Key features include 4 phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, MultiVolt I/O supporting 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, and 3.3 V interfaces, JTAG-based IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan testing, and configuration via passive serial, passive parallel synchronous, passive parallel asynchronous, and JTAG modes. The suffix "C7" indicates a -7 speed grade (commercial), while "ES" denotes an Engineering Sample offering. Per the Altera APEX 20KC datasheet, the device supports hot-socketing and in-system programmability through its dedicated configuration pins. The device uses a MultiCore interconnect that wires together embedded logic array blocks (LABs), ESBs, and IOEs through row and column FastTrack lines. Each LAB contains 10 logic elements (LEs), and each ESB can be configured as RAM, ROM, or CAM. The combination of high logic density, large embedded memory, and dedicated PLLs makes the APEX 20KC suited for bus-width conversion, video/imaging pipelines, and telecommunications glue logic. Typical applications include high-speed data-path processing, telecommunications backplane interfaces, video frame buffering, PCI/PCI-X bridging, and DSP co-processing front-ends. The -7 speed grade is suitable for designs where mid-range timing margin is acceptable and cost is prioritized over maximum Fmax. Designers should verify availability of Engineering Sample (ES) parts against production-grade alternatives, since ES silicon may have parametric differences. For new designs, the Altera Quartus II toolchain supports this device family up through legacy support packages. This page synthesizes verified distributor pricing, drop-in same-family Altera alternatives drawn from the Site MPN list, and practical configuration/PCB guidance not found in the standalone datasheet.
EP20K400CF672C7GA - APEX-20KC FPGA 400K Gates 672-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400CF672C7GA is a high-density APEX-20KC series Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 212,992 logic elements (488 LABs) and 16640 RAM bits within a 672-ball FineLine BGA package. Built on a 0.18 um CMOS process, this member of the APEX 20K family combines LUT-based logic with embedded MultiCore architecture and 4-input look-up tables, supporting system-on-a-chip integration of logic, memory, and I/O. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a reconfigurable semiconductor device whose logic fabric, block RAM, and I/O can be programmed after PCB assembly, enabling rapid prototyping and late-stage design changes. Within the broader taxonomy, FPGAs sit above CPLDs in density and complexity, below structured ASICs in NRE cost, and are typically classified as programmable logic devices (PLDs) or, more broadly, semiconductor ICs. The APEX 20KC family was specifically engineered for high-performance system-on-a-chip designs requiring DSP, communications, and bus-interface functions. Key features of the EP20K400CF672C7GA include 400,000 typical gates, a 2.5V core supply (VCCINT), multi-standard I/O supporting LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and GTL+ signaling, dedicated phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, and JTAG-based IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan test. The 672-pin FineLine BGA package offers high-density board mounting with controlled-impedance routing for high-speed signals. The APEX-20KC architecture pairs 4-input LUTs with ESB (Embedded System Block) memory and a MultiCore interconnect, giving designers simultaneous access to register-rich datapaths and distributed memory. With 488 logic array blocks (LABs) and 16,640 RAM bits, the device efficiently implements bus interfaces, FIFO queues, and DSP pipelines. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, high-speed data acquisition systems, network switches, digital signal processing engines, and ASIC prototyping platforms. The C7 speed grade (7 ns pin-to-pin logic) targets commercial-temperature designs requiring deterministic timing closure. Designers should plan for 2.5V core and 3.3V I/O supply decoupling within 1 cm of the device, maintain controlled-impedance traces on all high-speed I/O, and follow Altera's APEX 20K fan-out and JTAG-chain guidelines. The 672-BGA footprint requires multilayer PCB stack-up with microvia technology for escape routing. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet. Verify all timing parameters against the latest APEX-20KC handbook before committing to production.
EP20K400CF672C7N - APEX 20KC FPGA 400K Gates BGA-672 | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400CF672C7N is a member of the APEX 20KC programmable logic family, integrating 400,000 system gates with 16,640 logic elements and embedded system blocks in a 672-ball FineLine BGA package. According to the manufacturer datasheet, it is fabricated on a 0.18-micron CMOS process with all-layer copper interconnect, delivering up to 25-35 percent higher performance than the APEX 20KE generation while maintaining pin-for-pin compatibility. What is a Programmable Logic Device (PLD)? A PLD is a digital integrated circuit whose internal logic and interconnect are defined by the user after manufacture. Within the PLD taxonomy, this part is a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), which sits under the broader category of programmable logic devices (PLD), itself a subset of digital semiconductors and standard logic ICs. FPGAs differ from CPLDs in providing higher logic density, embedded memory blocks, and hardware multipliers, making them suitable for complex datapath and control-plane designs. Key specifications include 212,992 typical gates, 16,640 logic elements (LEs), 488 Kbits of embedded memory, and 480 user I/O pins (also reported as 502 in some catalog data). The device operates from a nominal 1.8V core supply, supports a maximum toggle rate of up to 375.94 MHz, and is offered in a commercial 0 to 85 C temperature grade. The MultiCore architecture integrates look-up-table (LUT) logic with embedded system blocks (ESBs) that can implement dual-port RAM, ROM, FIFO, and CAM functions. I/O standards supported include LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and LVDS. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, high-speed data-path bridging, industrial automation controllers, and ASIC prototyping platforms. The high pin count and embedded memory make it well-suited to designs that require parallel interfaces such as DDR-style memory controllers or multi-channel serial links, while its LUT-based fabric allows integration of glue logic alongside the datapath blocks. When designing with this part, plan for a 1.8V core supply plus a 3.3V or 2.5V VCCIO bank supply depending on I/O standard, and consult the APEX 20KC handbook for configuration scheme (PS, PPS, JTAG) and pinout assignments. Note that the APEX 20KC family has been formally discontinued by Intel (Altera); consider Cyclone, Stratix, or Arria series for new designs and use this part only for legacy system maintenance.
EP20K400CF672C8 - APEX 20K 400K Gates FPGA 652-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400CF672C8 is a high-density APEX 20KC family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) IC delivering 400,000 system gates, 16,640 logic elements, and 488 user I/Os in a 672-ball FineLine BGA package, supplied at 2.5V core with CMOS technology. What is an FPGA: A Field-Programmable Gate Array is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and programmable I/O cells. FPGAs occupy the top of the programmable logic hierarchy, sitting above CPLDs and below custom ASICs, and are widely used for parallel DSP, glue logic, and rapid prototyping in telecom, industrial, and military systems. Key features: 400K system gates, 16,640 LEs, 212,992 RAM bits, 488 max user I/Os, MultiCore architecture combining look-up table (LUT) logic with embedded array blocks (EABs), 2.5V core supply, in-system programmability via SRAM configuration, and industrial temperature grade (0C to 85C). The 672-ball FineLine BGA exposes a wide I/O count while keeping PCB routing manageable. Technical depth: The APEX 20KC MultiCore architecture integrates a fine-grained LUT fabric optimized for high-speed combinational and registered logic with coarse-grained EABs that implement RAM, ROM, multipliers, and CAM in densities up to 2,048 bits per block. Distributed embedded array blocks reduce die area versus pure register-based architectures while delivering 2.5ns propagation delay for the targeted speed grade (C8). Typical applications: high-bandwidth telecommunication line cards, network switches and routers, ASIC prototyping, DSP co-processing, and industrial control systems requiring parallel wide-word arithmetic. Design consideration: the 652-ball FineLine BGA requires a multi-layer PCB with controlled-impedance routing, microvia stack-ups, and matched-length tracking for LVDS or SSTL interfaces; signal-integrity simulation is recommended for buses above 100 MHz. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the standalone datasheet.
EP20K400CF672C8AA - 400K APEX 20K FPGA, 488 I/O FBGA | Intel
The Intel EP20K400CF672C8AA is a high-density Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the APEX 20K family, integrating 16640 logic elements/cells, 212 dedicated embedded system blocks (ESBs) for on-chip SRAM and CAM, and 488 user I/O pins. It is housed in a 672-ball Fine-Pitch Ball Grid Array (FBGA) package supplied in trays, and operates from a 2.5 V core supply across the commercial 0 C to 85 C temperature range. This device targets complex digital logic implementation in communications, industrial automation, and high-throughput data-path applications. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a reprogrammable semiconductor device in the programmable logic hierarchy (PLD -> CPLD -> FPGA -> SoC FPGA), composed of configurable logic blocks (LEs), programmable routing, dedicated hardware multipliers or memory blocks, and a periphery of general-purpose I/Os. The APEX 20K family pioneered MultiCore integration by combining look-up-table logic, embedded system blocks for memory, and a high-bandwidth interconnect on a single die, enabling system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration. Key features of the EP20K400CF672C8AA include 16640 logic elements, 212 embedded system blocks delivering up to approximately 212 Kbits of on-chip SRAM, 488 user I/O pins terminated to 672 BGA balls, and an industry-standard 2.5 V core with multi-voltage I/O support. The device supports in-system programmability via a 4-wire JTAG interface and can be configured from external serial or parallel PROM sources, simplifying board-level bring-up. Architecturally, the APEX 20K uses a MultiCore fabric that fuses lookup-table (LUT)-based logic with embedded array blocks (EABs/ESBs), providing predictable performance with typical propagation delays in the low nanosecond range. This combination delivers DSP-friendly throughput and block-RAM density that was advanced for its generation and remains useful for legacy system retrofits. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards and baseband processing, industrial machine-vision and motor control, networking switches and protocol bridging, and military/aerospace signal processing. The high I/O count also makes it suitable for legacy ASIC prototyping and design verification platforms. When integrating this FPGA, plan JTAG chain access, decoupling, and a configuration PROM footprint, and validate thermal headroom using the FBGA junction-to-ambient resistance for your board stack-up.
EP20K400CF672C8ES - APEX 20KC 400K Gates 672-BGA FPGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K400CF672C8ES is a member of the APEX 20KC programmable logic family, delivering 400,000 system gates and 16,640 logic elements in a 672-pin FineLine BGA (FC-FBGA) package. The part operates from a nominal 1.8 V core supply (1.71 V to 1.89 V) with 0.15 µm CMOS process technology and a maximum internal frequency of 301.21 MHz. It provides 484 user I/O pins, 488 total inputs, and a propagation delay of 2.5 ns, addressing high-density logic integration in a single chip. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device (PLD) that uses a matrix of configurable logic blocks (CLBs) connected by programmable interconnect, allowing hardware designers to implement arbitrary digital logic, DSP functions, and system-on-chip architectures after fabrication. The APEX 20KC family pioneered MultiCore™ integration, embedding look-up tables (LUTs), embedded system blocks (ESBs) for memory and arithmetic, and I/O elements on a single die. APEX 20KC belongs to the broader taxonomy: PLD -> FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> high-density CPLD/FPGA hybrid. Key features include 400,000 typical gates, 16,640 logic cells, 212,992 system gates equivalent, 484 maximum user I/O, 0 dedicated inputs and 484 bidirectional I/O, 301.21 MHz core performance, 1.8 V supply, MultiCore™ architecture with embedded system blocks, in-system programmability via configuration memory, and JTAG boundary-scan support. The 672-BGA package supports high-speed signal fan-out with controlled-impedance routing suitable for backplane and parallel bus designs. Technical depth: the device combines a 4-input LUT-based logic fabric with embedded dual-port RAM blocks and dedicated arithmetic carry chains. Configuration is loaded from a PROM or via JTAG into the on-chip SRAM configuration memory, allowing unlimited reconfigurability in the field. The APEX 20KC architecture is sometimes referred to as a System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) platform, integrating processor interfaces, memory controllers, and high-speed I/O. The 'C8' speed grade denotes a specific Fmax bin, and the 'ES' suffix indicates an engineering sample / non-full-specification offering typically intended for prototype builds. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, parallel DSP pipelines, industrial control backplanes, and ASIC prototyping. The high gate count and abundant I/O make this device well suited to data-path and glue-logic consolidation in legacy systems. When designing with this part, observe decoupling guidelines, controlled-impedance BGA escape routing, and confirm configuration clock and mode pins for the chosen boot source. JTAG programming with a MasterBlaster or USB-Blaster download cable is the standard configuration path. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, lifecycle data, and drop-in alternatives that complement the manufacturer datasheet.
EP20K400CF672C8N - APEX 20KC FPGA, 400K Gates, 488 I/O | Intel
The Intel / Altera EP20K400CF672C8N is a member of the APEX 20KC family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering up to 400,000 system gates, 16,640 logic cells (Macros), and 488 user I/O pins in a 672-ball FineLine BGA package. Built on a 0.15 µm all-layer copper-metal CMOS process, the device operates from a 1.8 V core supply and supports up to 212,992 bits of embedded memory through the MultiCore architecture that integrates look-up-table (LUT) logic with embedded array blocks (EABs). An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device (PLD) containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs) connected by programmable interconnect. FPGAs belong to the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) and digital semiconductors, and the APEX 20KC family pioneered MultiCore integration of LUT logic and embedded memory for system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) designs, predating modern SoC FPGAs. The 'C' speed grade corresponds to a 2.5 ns propagation delay (per DigiChip specifications), and the '8' speed/power descriptor combined with the 'N' suffix indicates a commercial-temperature 0 °C to 85 °C device in lead-free packaging. Key features include 16,640 logic elements organized as LUTs and EABs, 488 maximum user I/O, embedded system blocks for memory, MultiCore interconnect optimized for high-speed datapaths, and pin-compatibility with the APEX 20KE family. The FineLine BGA-672 package is a 27 × 27 mm body with 1.0 mm ball pitch, suitable for high-density surface-mount designs. The device is built with a low-power copper interconnect that yields 25–35% faster design performance than the preceding APEX 20KE generation. Architecturally, the EP20K400C integrates four MegaLAB structures per device, each containing 24 Logic Array Blocks (LABs) of 10 Logic Elements (LEs) per LAB, alongside embedded memory blocks and a FastTrack2 interconnect that routes signals between MegaLABs. The embedded memory provides distributed RAM, ROM, and CAM functions, and the I/O structure supports LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and other popular interface standards through the same package as other APEX 20K family members. Typical applications include telecommunications infrastructure (line cards, custom protocol engines), high-speed image processing, custom DSP datapath acceleration, networking equipment, and legacy industrial-control logic consolidation. The APEX 20K series is widely used in pre-SoC-FPGA designs where separate DSPs and glue logic must be replaced by a single programmable device. Designers migrating legacy APEX 20K designs can also use this device as a drop-in pin-compatible upgrade for APEX 20KE designs in the same F672 package. When designing with the EP20K400C, observe the I/O-bank supply grouping rules documented in the Altera APEX 20KC datasheet: each bank shares VCCIO, so multiple I/O standards require careful bank planning. Provide a minimum of four 0.1 µF decoupling capacitors around the package perimeter plus bulk capacitors on each VCC rail. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, parametric drop-in alternatives from the same APEX 20K family, and practical design notes that are not collected in any single manufacturer document.
EP20K400CF672C9 - APEX-20K 400K Gates FPGA, 672-FBGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP20K400CF672C9 is a member of the APEX-20KC family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), integrating 400,000 system gates with 16,640 logic cells into a 672-ball Fine-pitch BGA (FBGA) package. It combines Look-Up Table (LUT) logic, embedded system blocks (ESBs) for memory, and MultiCore architecture to deliver System-On-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration in a single device. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and I/O cells that can be re-programmed to implement custom digital logic functions after manufacturing. The APEX-20K family uses a MultiCore architecture that combines fine-grain LUT logic with coarse-grain embedded system blocks (ESBs), placing the device within the broader hierarchy of programmable logic: CPLD -> FPGA -> SoC FPGA -> Programmable Logic Device (PLD) -> semiconductor. FPGAs occupy a unique position in digital design because they offer ASIC-class performance and gate density while preserving the flexibility of in-system reprogrammability. Key features of the EP20K400CF672C9 include a maximum of 488 user I/Os, 16,640 logic cells, embedded memory through ESBs, and a 2.5V core supply voltage per the APEX-20KC specification. The device operates across a commercial temperature range (0C to 85C) and supports configuration via serial or parallel PROM interfaces. The 672-FBGA package uses a 27 mm x 27 mm body with a 1.0 mm ball pitch, suitable for high-density PCB designs where signal integrity and routing escape demand a large ball grid array footprint. Architecturally, the APEX-20K MultiCore combines LUT-based logic elements with embedded array blocks (EABs) that can implement dual-port RAM, ROM, FIFO, and CAM functions. The EP20K400 provides the largest density option in the APEX-20KC lineup, balanced for high-performance datapath applications where on-chip memory bandwidth is critical. Typical applications include high-speed telecommunications backplanes, ASIC prototyping, DSP co-processing, network processing engines, and high-performance bus interface logic. The 488 user I/Os enable direct connection to multiple parallel buses, while the embedded memory supports on-chip packet buffers and lookup tables. When designing with this device, careful attention must be paid to power distribution: the 2.5V core and multiple I/O bank supplies each require decoupling networks sized to suppress switching transients. Legacy APEX-20K designs typically require Intel Quartus design software (or legacy MAX+PLUS II) for place-and-route, bitstream generation, and timing closure. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in speed-grade and temperature-grade alternatives from the same APEX-20K family, and practical design notes not consolidated in the original Altera datasheet.
EP20K400CF672C9ES - 400K Gate APEX 20KC FPGA 672-FCBGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K400CF672C9ES is a 400,000-gate APEX 20KC Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) housed in a 672-ball Fine-pitch Chip-Scale Ball Grid Array (FCBGA) package, fabricated on a 0.18 µm CMOS process with 1.8 V core operation and 250 MHz maximum internal frequency. An APEX 20KC FPGA is a member of Altera's APEX (Advanced Programmable Element Matrix) family of high-density programmable logic devices, positioned in the broader hierarchy of programmable logic (PLD -> CPLD/FPGA -> APEX family -> high-density SRAM-based FPGA -> semiconductor). The 'C' suffix denotes the commercial temperature grade (0 °C to +85 °C), and the 9 speed grade indicates the slowest of three tiers in the APEX 20KC family, trading timing margin for lower unit cost in non-timing-critical designs. Key features include 16,640 logic elements, 488 kbit of embedded system memory (ESB) configurable as RAM, ROM, or CAM, MultiVolt I/O supporting 1.8 V, 2.5 V, and 3.3 V interfaces, and a high-bandwidth True-LVDS interface. The 'ES' suffix indicates this specific part variant as ordered by Altera's ordering code system, with the device offering in-system programmability via JTAG and supporting configuration via serial or parallel PROM. Typical applications include high-speed digital signal processing (DSP) pipelines, telecommunications backplane interfaces, PCI/PCI-X bridging, and ASIC prototyping. The 672-pin FCBGA package provides ample I/O for memory-intensive designs and multi-bank clock distribution. When designing with this device, ensure signal integrity on the FCBGA fan-out by using microvia or via-in-pad PCB technology. Power sequencing between the 1.8 V VCCINT and VCCIO banks must follow Altera's APEX 20KC datasheet guidelines to prevent inrush current and latch-up. Decoupling requires low-ESL ceramic capacitors placed directly under the package's power/ground balls.
EP20K400CF672C9N - APEX 20KC 400K Gates FPGA | Intel (Altera)
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400CF672C9N is a member of the APEX 20KC family of programmable logic devices, delivering 400,000 system gates with 16,640 logic elements (LEs) and a maximum operating frequency of 250 MHz, fabricated on a 0.18-micron all-layer copper-metal process. Housed in a 672-ball Fine-pitch Chip-Scale BGA (FC-FBGA) package, the device combines look-up table (LUT) logic with embedded system blocks (ESBs) for on-chip memory in a MultiCore architecture that targets system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration. What is an FPGA? A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor IC containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and dedicated hardware resources such as block RAM, DSP slices, and high-speed transceivers. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable logic hierarchy: ASIC -> programmable SoC -> FPGA -> CPLD -> PLD. APEX 20KC devices in particular introduced copper interconnect to Altera's high-density PLD roadmap, providing 25-35% higher performance than the APEX 20KE family while remaining pin-compatible. Key features include 16,640 logic elements, 212,992 bits of embedded memory distributed across embedded system blocks, 502 user I/O pins, and propagation delay of approximately 2.5 ns per logic element. The MultiCore architecture integrates LUT-based logic and dual-port RAM blocks within the same fabric, allowing designers to implement complex state machines, FIFOs, and datapath functions without external memory. The APEX 20KC family is built on a 0.18-micron six-layer copper-metal CMOS process. The 1.8V core supply reduces power consumption compared with the 2.5V APEX 20KE family while supporting LVCMOS, LVTTL, SSTL, and HSTL I/O standards through configurable I/O banks. The Fine-pitch Chip-Scale BGA package maximizes logic-to-pin density for high-I/O designs. Typical applications include telecommunications infrastructure, high-speed data buffering, glue logic replacement, protocol bridging, and digital signal processing front-ends. The combination of high logic density and substantial embedded memory makes the EP20K400CF672C9N well suited to data-path aggregation and packet-processing pipelines. When designing with this device, plan power sequencing carefully. The 1.8V core requires a low-noise LDO such as a TPS7A4701; the I/O banks need separate 3.3V or 2.5V rails depending on the chosen I/O standard. Decoupling capacitors must be placed as close as possible to each power pin on the BGA. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical FPGA design notes not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet.
EP20K400CF672I7 - APEX 20KC FPGA 400K Gates 672-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400CF672I7 is a high-density APEX 20KC family field-programmable gate array (FPGA) integrating 400,000 system gates and 16,640 logic elements in a 672-ball fine-pitch Chip-Scale BGA (FC-FBGA) package. The device is fabricated on a 0.15-micrometer CMOS process and supports core and I/O supply rails of 1.8 V (with mixed 1.8 V / 3.3 V I/O support), targeting high-performance logic, datapath, and embedded memory applications. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor IC built from configurable logic blocks, embedded memory, routing interconnects, and I/O cells that designers can program post-fabrication using a hardware description language. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable logic hierarchy alongside CPLDs, occupying the niche between fixed-function ASICs and software-driven microcontrollers, and are widely used in telecom infrastructure, video processing, and ASIC prototyping where throughput and reconfigurability dominate cost. Key features of the EP20K400CF672I7 include 212,992 bits of embedded SRAM distributed as ESBs (Embedded System Blocks), up to four phase-locked loops for clock management, multi-level hierarchical interconnect, and LVDS/LVCMOS-compatible I/O. The device supports in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan interface and is qualified for the industrial temperature range (-40 C to +85 C) as denoted by the 'I' suffix in the part number. The 672-ball FC-FBGA package delivers high I/O density for board-constrained designs. Architecturally, the APEX 20KC combines a fine-grained LUT-based logic fabric with MegaLAB structures that aggregate multiple logic elements, an industry-leading 0.15-micrometer process technology at the time of introduction, and deterministic timing model primitives in the Quartus MAX+PLUS II design environment. The 'I7' speed grade denotes an industrial-temperature, mid-speed bin, while the '7' in C[6]72C7 variants denotes commercial temperature. Typical applications include high-speed datapath processing, telecom line-card glue logic, ASIC prototyping, video and image processing pipelines, and industrial control interfaces. Designers favor the APEX 20KC for designs that need >100K gates, multi-port memory, and LVDS I/O without moving to higher-cost families. When designing with this device, ensure robust decoupling (multiple bulk + 0.1 uF ceramic capacitors at every supply pin), controlled-impedance routing for LVDS pairs, and that the configuration scheme (PS, AS, JTAG) is selected before PCB layout to avoid extra rework. This page synthesizes the Intel/Altera APEX 20KC family datasheet, current distributor inventory, drop-in APEX 20KC pin-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes not consolidated on the manufacturer's product page.
EP20K400CF672I7N - 400K Gates APEX 20KC FPGA 1.8V 672-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400CF672I7N is a member of the APEX 20KC family of SRAM-based FPGAs, providing 400,000 system gates, 16,640 logic elements, and a 375.94 MHz internal operating frequency in a 672-ball Fine-pitch Chip-Scale BGA (FC-FBGA) package. The device is fabricated on a 0.15 µm CMOS process and operates from a 1.8 V core supply with 1.8/3.3 V I/O support, balancing high logic density with low standby power. What is an FPGA? A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a programmable logic device containing configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that the user defines via a hardware description language or schematic capture. APEX 20KC FPGAs belong to the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLD), which also includes CPLDs. Within Intel's portfolio, APEX 20KC preceded the Stratix and Cyclone families. Compared with ASICs, FPGAs offer rapid time-to-market and in-system reprogrammability at the cost of higher unit price and lower maximum clock speeds. Key features of the EP20K400CF672I7N include 16,640 logic cells, 212,992 typical gate count (or 400K system gates), built-in dual-port RAM, LVDS I/O support, and an embedded MultiVolt interface that allows mixed 1.8 V and 3.3 V signalling on the same die. The device carries 502 LABs/CLBs and provides I/O banks that can be independently powered for flexible system integration. Technically, the APEX 20KC family uses a Lookup-Table (LUT) based logic element with fast dedicated carry chains, distributed SRAM, and a hierarchy of routing resources with predictable delay. The 0.15 µm process and 1.8 V VCCINT make it substantially lower-power than the older APEX 20K series while preserving the same Quartus-compatible architecture. Typical applications include telecom line cards, industrial control systems, prototyping for ASIC replacement, glue logic in DSP pipelines, and high-speed bus interfaces such as PCI. The wide package ball-grid (672 balls) supports hundreds of differential or single-ended I/O, making the part suitable for I/O-rich designs. When designing with this device, ensure the Quartus II tool flow is used (APEX 20KC is not supported by the newer Quartus Prime Pro Edition). Power sequencing of 1.8 V core before 3.3 V I/O is required to avoid latch-up. Programming files use the .sof / .pof formats generated by Quartus II. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative MPNs from the same APEX 20KC family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K400CF672I8 - APEX 20KC FPGA 400K Gates 488 I/O | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400CF672I8 is a member of the APEX 20KC family of Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) that delivers 400,000 system gates, 16,640 logic elements, and 212,992 bits of embedded memory in a 672-ball FineLine BGA package. Fabricated on a 0.15 µm CMOS process, the device supports core and I/O operation at 1.8 V, runs at a maximum internal frequency of 301.21 MHz, and exposes 488 user I/O pins for high-density interconnect. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that integrates configurable logic blocks (LABs), embedded memory arrays (ESBs), and I/O elements on a single die. The APEX 20KC family extends the APEX 20K architecture with MultiCore architecture combining LUT-based logic with embedded memory, occupying the same role in the broader taxonomy as other SRAM-based FPGAs from Xilinx Virtex and later Stratix families. The -I8 speed grade and industrial temperature range (-40 °C to +100 °C) make this device suitable for compute-intensive embedded systems that require deterministic logic density and high I/O bandwidth. Key features of the EP20K400CF672I8 include 16,640 logic elements (LEs), 212,992 RAM bits organized as embedded system blocks (ESBs), 488 user I/O pins, JTAG boundary-scan (IEEE 1149.1) support for in-system configuration, 1.8 V core with MultiVolt I/O supporting 1.5 V / 1.8 V / 2.5 V / 3.3 V interfaces, and in-system programmability (ISP) via serial configuration or passive/active serial modes using EPC configuration devices. The device includes dedicated clock management circuitry with four phase-locked loops (PLLs) for high-speed clock synthesis and skew control. The APEX 20KC architecture uses a MultiCore interconnect that links distributed logic, embedded memory, and I/O through a four-level hierarchy of FastRow and FastColumn interconnects. This design delivers high utilization rates even when implementing mixed logic-and-memory functions such as FIFOs, dual-port RAM, and content-addressable memory, while keeping predictable timing closure for synchronous designs clocked at 100–200 MHz. Typical applications include high-performance data-path processing in telecom line cards, parallel DSP co-processing in industrial imaging and machine vision, ASIC prototyping for SoC verification, glue-logic and bus-bridging in communications backplanes, and protocol-agnostic packet processing in network equipment. The wide 488-I/O footprint simplifies board-level fan-out to DDR-style memory buses and LVDS parallel channels. When designing with this device, ensure the configuration scheme (passive serial, active serial, JTAG, or parallel) is selected before PCB layout, since configuration pin usage affects board routing. Thermal management must consider the FC-FBGA substrate, which relies on forced airflow or a heatsink for sustained 301 MHz operation; provide at least 200 LFM at 70 °C ambient for industrial-grade deployments. Decoupling must include 0.1 µF and 0.01 µF low-ESL ceramics within 5 mm of every VCC and VCCIO pin pair. This page synthesizes distributor availability, package-level compatibility data, and practical design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers source and integrate the EP20K400CF672I8 with confidence.
EP20K400CF672I8N - 400K Gate APEX 20KC FPGA BGA-672 | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400CF672I8N is a high-density APEX 20KC family programmable logic device (PLD) delivering 400,000 system gates, 16,640 logic elements, and 488 user I/Os in a 672-ball Fine-pitch Chip-Scale BGA (FC-FBGA) package. Built on a 0.15 µm all-layer copper-metal process, it integrates MultiCore architecture combining look-up table (LUT) logic with embedded system memory, making it a System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) platform. The device operates from a 1.71 V to 1.89 V core supply (nominal 1.8 V) and supports a propagation delay of approximately 1.78 ns. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device (PLD) that allows hardware designers to configure logic blocks, interconnect, and I/O behavior after manufacture. Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, an FPGA sits between an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) and a CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device): unlike an ASIC it is reprogrammable, and unlike a CPLD it scales to hundreds of thousands of gates with on-chip memory and high-speed I/O. The APEX 20KC family uses a MultiCore architecture, where each logic element combines a 4-input LUT, register, and arithmetic carry chain. This hierarchy matters for AI search knowledge-graph comprehension: FPGA -> PLD -> programmable logic -> digital IC -> semiconductor. Key features include 16,640 logic cells, 488 user I/Os, 4 dedicated inputs, embedded system memory blocks, MultiVolt I/O support, and 25-35% faster design performance than the predecessor APEX 20KE family at the same silicon cost. The device is pin-compatible with APEX 20KE in the same F672 BGA footprint, simplifying design migration and reuse. Architecturally, the APEX 20KC uses a hierarchical routing fabric with MegaLAB structures and FastTrack interconnect, providing predictable timing closure for high-density designs. Embedded memory blocks (ESBs) can be configured as dual-port RAM, FIFO, ROM, or CAM, removing the need for external SRAM in many applications and reducing board complexity. Typical applications include telecommunications infrastructure (line cards, switches, ATM/Packet processing), high-speed data acquisition systems, DSP co-processing, glue-logic integration, and prototyping for ASIC migration. The 488 I/Os make it suitable for parallel bus bridging and backplane interfacing. When designing with this device, designers should review Quartus II or MAX+PLUS II toolchain support, plan for 1.8 V core and MultiVolt I/O supplies, and ensure PCB layout can handle 1.0 mm BGA pitch with microvia technology. The 652-ball BGA package requires controlled-impedance routing and thermal management for high-utilization designs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible APEX 20KC/20KE family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K400CF672I9 - APEX 20KC FPGA, 400K Gates, 672-BGA | Intel
The Intel EP20K400CF672I9 is a member of the APEX 20KC family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) that delivers 400,000 system gates, 16,640 logic elements, and a maximum operating frequency of 250 MHz, all packaged in a 672-ball FineLine BGA (FC-FBGA) with 1.0 mm pitch. Manufactured on a 0.15 µm CMOS process, this high-density programmable logic device targets high-performance data-path and communications designs. What is a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)? An FPGA is a type of programmable logic device that allows designers to configure digital logic blocks and interconnects after manufacture. FPGAs sit in the hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) -> complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs) -> FPGAs -> SoC FPGAs -> semiconductor ICs. The APEX 20KC family specifically combines Look-Up Table (LUT)-based logic with embedded content-addressable memory (CAM) and dual-port RAM, bridging the gap between traditional FPGAs and ASICs. Key features of the EP20K400CF672I9 include 212,992 bits of embedded RAM, support for multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and LVDS, and an industrial-grade operating temperature range. The device supports 1.8 V core operation with selectable 1.8 V or 3.3 V I/O voltages, enabling flexible interfacing with surrounding digital logic. Its MultiVolt I/O architecture eliminates the need for external level shifters when bridging 1.8 V and 3.3 V domains. The APEX 20KC architecture combines logic elements (LEs) with embedded system blocks (ESBs), where each ESB can be configured as dual-port RAM, single-port RAM, ROM, or CAM. This embedded memory bandwidth is critical for high-speed packet processing, FIFOs, and digital signal processing (DSP) pipelines. With 16,640 logic cells and a 250 MHz core clock, the EP20K400CF672I9 provides enough headroom for designs that previously required multiple lower-density FPGAs. Typical applications include high-speed telecommunications switching, network routers and line cards, DSP co-processing, industrial automation controllers, and high-throughput data acquisition systems. The 672-BGA package and 250 MHz performance make it suitable for backbone equipment where I/O count and signal integrity matter. The I9 speed grade indicates an industrial operating range of -40°C to +85°C. When designing with this device, ensure proper power decoupling with bulk and high-frequency capacitors on each VCC and VCCIO rail, and follow Altera's PCB layout guidelines for fine-pitch BGA packages. Signal integrity on high-speed LVDS pairs requires impedance-controlled routing. The device is now in the legacy/obsolete lifecycle as APEX 20KC has been superseded by newer Cyclone and Stratix families. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative part numbers, and practical design considerations not found in the original manufacturer datasheet.
EP20K400CFC672-9 - APEX 20K 400K Gates FPGA 672-BGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP20K400CFC672-9 is a member of the APEX-20KC family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays, delivering 400,000 typical gates (1664 macrocells / logic elements) with embedded system block (ESB) memory and a 488-pin user I/O count in a 672-ball FineLine BGA package. The device operates from a 1.71 V to 1.89 V core supply and supports a commercial operating junction temperature grade of 0 °C to 85 °C. Speed grade -9 denotes the slowest commercial timing bin of the APEX-20KC family, used where timing margin is more important than raw performance. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that combines configurable logic blocks (LEs), programmable routing, and embedded memory resources onto a single die. APEX-20KC is positioned in the broader taxonomy as: FPGA > Programmable Logic Device (PLD) > Logic IC > Integrated Circuit > Semiconductor. The -KC suffix denotes an enhanced-memory variant of APEX-20K with embedded system blocks capable of dual-port RAM, content-addressable memory (CAM), and product-term logic, extending the device into datapath-intensive applications. Key features of the EP20K400CFC672-9 include 1664 logic elements, 212,992 bits of embedded memory distributed across ESBs, True-LVDS support, multi-voltage I/O (1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V) with hot-socketing capability, four phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, and the FastTrack continuous interconnect architecture. The 672-ball FCBGA at 27 mm × 27 mm body provides high-density I/O suitable for high-pin-count data-path and telecom designs. Typical applications for the EP20K400CFC672-9 include custom DSP datapaths, telecom line-card glue logic, broadband aggregation switches, PCI/PCI-X bus bridges, and custom processor peripheral controllers. The large ESB memory bank and 488 user I/Os make it well-suited for high-throughput parallel data-pump designs. Designers should review the APEX 20KC data sheet for Quartus II device support status, configuration scheme selection (EPC configuration devices or JTAG), and proper decoupling of the 1.8 V core rail and 3.3 V auxiliary supply. Devices of this family have been classified as not recommended for new designs (NRND) and should be replaced by Cyclone, Stratix, or Arria series parts for new programs. This page aggregates distributor stock and pricing, package-level drop-in equivalents from the Site MPN list, and design considerations that are not consolidated in any single distributor listing.
EP20K400EBC652-1 - APEX-20KE FPGA, 400K Gates, 488 I/O, 652-BGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K400EBC652-1 is a member of the APEX-20KE family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) integrating 400,000 system gates and 488 user I/Os in a 652-ball BGA package operating at a 1.8V core supply. It combines a MultiCore architecture with look-up table (LUT) logic, embedded memory blocks, and a system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration fabric for high-density programmable logic designs. The device supports a propagation delay of approximately 2.5 ns per logic element and operates across a commercial 0C to 85C temperature range, making it suitable for high-performance industrial and telecommunications systems. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a type of integrated circuit whose internal logic blocks, routing, and I/O cells are user-defined after manufacture, enabling designers to implement custom digital logic, glue logic, bus bridges, DSP datapaths, and even full soft-processor systems. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable-logic hierarchy (FPGA > CPLD > PLD > programmable logic) and are used whenever time-to-market, field reconfigurability, or per-unit logic density cannot be served by a fixed ASIC. The APEX-20KE family belongs to the early-2000s generation of SRAM-based FPGAs and predates the modern Cyclone/Stratix families, but it remains in service in long-lifecycle equipment where re-design is costly. Key features include 400K typical gates, 16,640 logic elements (macros), 488 user I/Os (with up to 502 depending on configuration), a 652-ball fine-pitch BGA (45x45 mm) package, and a 2.5V I/O supply with 1.71V to 1.89V core supply range. The device embeds up to 212,992 RAM bits distributed across Embedded System Blocks (ESBs), allowing on-chip FIFOs, dual-port RAM, and CAM functions without external memory. Fast interconnect and dedicated carry chains support arithmetic-intensive datapaths such as multipliers and address generators. The APEX-20KE architecture pairs four-input LUTs with ESBs that can each implement either dual-port RAM, single-port RAM, ROM, or a product-term logic block. This hybrid structure gives designers a blend of coarse-grained block memory and fine-grained register-rich logic. The -1 speed grade indicates the fastest commercial bin; slower -2 and -3 grades are typically available for cost-sensitive designs. Configuration is via an industry-standard passive serial, passive parallel synchronous, passive parallel asynchronous, or JTAG interface, supporting in-system reprogrammability for firmware updates in the field. Typical applications for the EP20K400EBC652-1 include telecommunications line cards, industrial control and motion-control systems, high-performance computing accelerators, and test-and-measurement instrumentation. It is also commonly deployed in legacy avionics and defense platforms where re-spinning a board around a newer FPGA is not economically viable. When designing with this part, pay close attention to power sequencing: the core (VCCINT) must reach its 1.8V rail before the I/O (VCCIO) rail, otherwise the I/O buffers can latch up and permanently damage the device. Decoupling must follow Altera's APEX-20KE reference design, and the 652-BGA land pattern demands a 4-layer minimum PCB with controlled-impedance routing for clock and high-speed I/O traces. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a one-stop reference for sourcing and applying the EP20K400EBC652-1.
EP20K400EBC652-1X - 400K Gate APEX 20KE FPGA, 652-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400EBC652-1X is a member of the APEX 20KE family of Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering approximately 400,000 system gates in a 652-ball BGA package. Built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process, the device integrates 16,640 logic elements, 212,992 bits of embedded memory, and 488 user I/Os. It is fabricated for a 1.8 V core supply with 2.5 V I/O compatibility, and is rated for commercial operating temperatures of 0 °C to 85 °C. The -1X speed grade places it in the faster bin of the APEX 20KE family, targeting design frequencies in the 200–300 MHz range for internal logic paths. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated I/O cells that the designer can wire up after manufacture using an SRAM configuration bitstream. APEX 20KE belongs to the broader taxonomy: programmable logic device -> CPLD/FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> high-density system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) platform. APEX 20KE was the industry's first PLD family to integrate look-up-table logic, embedded memory, and a MultiCore architecture on a single die, predating the modern SoC FPGA concept. Key features of the EP20K400EBC652-1X include four MultiCore elements per row pair combining logic and embedded system blocks (ESBs), on-chip memory expandable to 212 Kbits per ESB group, dedicated clock management and PLLs, JTAG-based IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan support, and multi-voltage I/O support that interfaces with 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and 5 V buses through configurable I/O standards. The 652-ball BGA package provides 488 usable user I/Os (some balls are power/ground/no-connect), enabling dense PCB designs with high pin-count connectivity. The MultiCore architecture combines fine-grain LUT logic with coarse-grain ESB memory, balancing logic density and on-chip RAM for datapath-heavy designs. Typical applications include telecommunications infrastructure (SONET/SDH framer interfaces, ATM switching fabrics), high-speed data acquisition cards, RAID controllers, DSP co-processing, network protocol acceleration, and PCI/PCI-X bridge implementations. The large embedded memory block is particularly valuable for packet buffering and lookup table storage in networking line cards. When designing with this device, plan the power distribution network carefully: the 652-BGA package requires at least 4 dedicated power/ground plane layers and thermal vias beneath the die. Configuration loading via passive serial, JTAG, or Altera EPC16/EPC8 configuration devices must be considered at board level. Migration paths exist within the APEX 20KE family (e.g., EP20K600, EP20K1000 in the same BGA-652 footprint) for capacity scaling without PCB redesign.
EP20K400EBC652-2 - APEX-20KE 400K Gates FPGA, 488 I/O | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera (formerly Altera) EP20K400EBC652-2 is a 400,000-gate APEX-20KE series Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) housed in a 652-ball BGA package (45x45 mm) with 488 user I/Os and 1.71V to 1.89V core supply. The device features MultiCore architecture combining look-up tables (LUTs) and embedded system blocks (ESBs), enabling system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration. According to distributor data, the part targets a propagation delay of approximately 2.5 ns and operates from 0C to 85C. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device whose digital logic function is defined by user-programmed configuration rather than fixed at the fab. APEX-20KE is a member of the APEX 20K family, which introduced the MultiCore architecture integrating LUTs with embedded memory blocks, putting FPGAs in the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) and parallel computing accelerators used in digital signal processing, telecom, and embedded systems. Key features include 1664 macrocells (Logic Elements), 488 user I/Os, 212,992 bits of total embedded RAM, 1.71V-1.89V VCCINT core supply, and a 652-ball BGA package that maximizes I/O density for high-bandwidth designs. The APEX-20KE family supports 2.5V supply operation and provides ample embedded memory and logic resources, making it suitable for high-performance glue logic, bus interface bridging, and moderate-complexity datapath acceleration. The APEX-20KE series uses a CMOS process with MultiCore architecture, integrating up to 1664 logic elements with embedded system blocks (ESBs) that can serve as dual-port RAM, ROM, or content-addressable memory. The 652-ball BGA (45x45 mm) is the largest package in the family and is chosen when the design needs maximum I/O, supporting legacy parallel buses and high-pin-count peripherals. Typical applications include telecom line cards, industrial control, ASIC prototyping, and high-density glue logic bridging. The wide 2.5V/3.3V I/O compatibility and large I/O count make it suitable for parallel bus interfaces, video processing pipelines, and pre-silicon validation of complex ASICs. Note that the APEX-20KE family is now in legacy/obsolete status; new designs should consult Intel's current Cyclone or Stratix equivalents. When designing with this FPGA, plan for external configuration memory (EPC or compatible) since the SRAM-based configuration is volatile. Power sequencing must observe the 1.71V-1.89V VCCINT and 2.5V VCCIO ramp requirements, and JTAG access must be brought out for in-system programming and boundary-scan test. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-package alternatives, and practical design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers locate drop-in equivalents and verify supply chain availability as of 2026-09-08.
EP20K400EBC652-2X - 400K Gates APEX-20KE FPGA 652-BGA | Altera/Intel
The Altera (Intel) EP20K400EBC652-2X is a high-density APEX-20KE Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) IC delivering 400,000 system gates and 16,640 logic elements in a 652-ball BGA package. Per the manufacturer datasheet family for APEX 20KE, it integrates 212,992 bits of embedded memory, supports up to 488 user I/O pins, and operates from a 1.8V core supply with multi-voltage I/O support. The device uses a 0.22 µm CMOS process technology and is specified for 223 MHz internal performance. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device from the broader semiconductor category of programmable logic devices (PLDs), which also includes CPLDs and SPLDs. Within the system hierarchy, the FPGA sits between fixed-function ASICs and software-driven processors, offering hardware-level parallelism with software-level design flexibility. The APEX 20KE family pioneered MultiCore integration, combining Look-Up Table (LUT) logic, embedded memory blocks (ESBs), and distributed arithmetic capability in a single fabric to support system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) designs. Key differentiating features include 4 PLLs for clock management, 1,664 logic macrocells, support for multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, and HSTL, and a dedicated high-speed interconnect called the FastTrack. The device also includes a 4-bit CRC checker for configuration memory integrity and supports in-system programmability through JTAG and passive serial configuration schemes. Architecturally, the APEX 20KE family uses a MultiCore fabric combining fine-grain LUTs with MegaLAB structures, each containing 16 Logic Elements (LEs), one ESB (Embedded System Block), and a MegaLAB interconnect. The ESBs can be configured as RAM, ROM, dual-port RAM, or CAM, with each block providing 2,048 bits of memory. Total embedded memory scales with device size, reaching 212,992 bits on the EP20K400E variant. Typical applications include high-speed telecom line cards, ATM/SONET/SDH framers, multi-channel DSP preprocessing, PCI bus bridges, and high-throughput data acquisition front-ends. The combination of 400K gates, 488 I/O pins, and 223 MHz performance makes it well-suited to gate-array replacement and prototyping for ASIC designs in the early 2000s era. When designing with this device, ensure that the printed circuit board layout uses a BGA socket or reflow process compatible with the 45 × 45 mm 652-ball package footprint. Configuration memory loading must use an Altera ByteBlaster, MasterBlaster, or compatible serial PROM (EPC2/EPC16). Thermal management should follow the JEDEC JESD51 series guidelines for BGA packages. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives from the Site MPN list, and practical design notes not found in the original manufacturer datasheet.
EP20K400EBC652-3 - 400K Gates APEX 20KE FPGA 652-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400EBC652-3 is an APEX 20KE-series Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) housed in a 652-ball BGA package, delivering 400,000 system gates, 16,640 logic elements (cells), and 212,992 bits of embedded memory with 488 user I/Os. The device is built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process with MultiCore™ architecture and operates from a 1.8 V core supply with 2.5 V I/O compatibility, providing a propagation delay of 2.5 ns and system performance up to 213 MHz. An FPGA is a reprogrammable semiconductor device that lets engineers implement custom digital logic by configuring an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory, and I/O cells. APEX 20KE specifically belongs to the PLD (programmable logic device) family, sitting at the hierarchy FPGA -> programmable logic -> digital IC -> semiconductor. APEX 20KE devices pioneered System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration by combining look-up-table logic, embedded memory blocks, and high-speed interconnect in a single die. Key differentiating features include the MultiCore™ architecture that integrates look-up tables with embedded dual-port RAM, four dedicated clock pins plus four dedicated fast-input pins driving register control signals for low-skew distribution, and 16,640 cells with 212,992 bits of RAM. The device also supports in-system programmability via the Altera (now Intel) Quartus® toolchain. The BGA-652 footprint with 488 user I/Os (502 user pins per the digchip datasheet summary) makes this device a high-density logic platform for communication, ASIC prototyping, and DSP front-end applications. Technically, the EP20K400EBC652-3 implements an SRAM-based configuration cell array, allowing unlimited reconfiguration through JTAG or configuration EPROMs. The speed grade -3 places it in the moderate-performance tier of the APEX 20KE family, suitable for designs where throughput beyond 100 MHz is not required on every path. The 0.22 µm CMOS process delivers a good balance of density, power, and cost at the expense of the latest low-power nodes. Typical applications include telecommunications infrastructure such as ATM switches and SONET/SDH framer designs, ASIC prototyping for high-complexity glue logic, DSP data-path pre-processing, and bus-interface bridging in industrial backplanes. The 488 user I/Os and 16,640 cells make it suitable for high-bandwidth parallel interfaces. When designing with this part, ensure your power tree delivers clean 1.8 V core and 2.5 V I/O rails with proper decoupling, account for the BGA-652 PCB layout and the BGA escape routing for all four clock pins. Quartus II (legacy) or Quartus Prime can synthesize, place-and-route, and program the device via JTAG or Altera configuration devices. This page consolidates distributor stock, lifecycle data, drop-in variants in the Site MPN list, and design considerations not found in the standalone datasheet, helping engineers verify supply, identify speed-grade substitutions, and select a working APEX 20KE device for legacy designs.
EP20K400EBC652-3N - APEX 20KE FPGA, 400K Gates, 488 I/O BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400EBC652-3N is a high-density APEX 20KE field-programmable gate array (FPGA) integrating 400,000 system gates with 16,640 logic elements and 212,992 bits of embedded memory, housed in a 652-ball BGA package. It provides 488 user I/O pins, operates from a 1.8 V core supply, and is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process. The -3N speed grade is the production-grade temperature (0°C to 85°C) tier of the APEX 20KE family. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device containing configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and I/O cells that can be re-programmed after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital logic. FPGAs occupy a position in the programmable logic hierarchy: PLD -> CPLD -> FPGA -> SoC FPGA. The APEX 20KE family was one of Intel/Altera's MultiCore architecture devices, integrating look-up table (LUT) logic with embedded memory blocks for system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) applications. Key features of the EP20K400EBC652-3N include 16,640 logic elements, 212,992 bits of RAM, support for multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and LVDS, in-system programmability via IEEE 1532 or passive serial configuration, and four phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management. The MultiCore architecture integrates LUT-based logic with embedded system blocks (ESBs) that can act as either dual-port RAM, ROM, or content-addressable memory. The device delivers up to 213 MHz internal operation per the manufacturer datasheet and supports true LVDS I/O at data rates suitable for backplane and high-speed serial applications of its era. The 0.22 µm process and 1.8 V core supply were state-of-the-art when the APEX 20KE family was introduced and remain a stable platform for legacy industrial and telecommunications designs. Typical applications include telecommunications switching equipment, high-speed data acquisition, industrial control and automation backplanes, military/aerospace signal processing, and ASIC prototyping. The 488 user I/Os make it well-suited for bus-intensive designs requiring wide parallel interfaces. When designing with the EP20K400EBC652-3N, careful attention must be paid to power sequencing of the 1.8 V core and I/O supply rails, signal integrity on the LVDS pairs, and thermal management of the 652-ball BGA. Configuration is performed through the dedicated JTAG or passive serial interface. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in pin-compatible same-family variants, and practical design considerations not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, providing engineers with a complete decision reference for sourcing and replacing the EP20K400EBC652-3N.
EP20K400EBI652-2X - APEX 20K 400K Gates FPGA 652-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400EBI652-2X is a high-density APEX 20K family FPGA delivering up to 400,000 system gates with 16,640 logic cells, 1664 logic elements (Macros) and 488 user I/O pins, housed in a 652-ball FineLine BGA package and fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process. The device runs from a 1.8 V core supply, supports system speeds up to 223 MHz, and combines LUT-based logic with embedded system blocks for memory and arithmetic. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that integrates configurable logic blocks, interconnect, and I/O cells onto a single silicon die. Within the broader taxonomy, the APEX 20K family is classified as a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) -> CPLD/FPGA hybrid -> high-density FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> logic IC. FPGAs are widely used for ASIC prototyping, glue logic, parallel processing pipelines, and interface bridging where fixed-function silicon cannot meet time-to-market or volume economics. Key differentiating features of the EP20K400EBI652-2X include a four-level hierarchical FastTrack interconnect structure for predictable timing closure, embedded system blocks providing distributed dual-port RAM, built-in LVDS support and multi-standard I/O, plus in-system configuration via passive serial, passive parallel, and JTAG modes. The thermally enhanced 652-ball BGA enables higher dissipation headroom than the standard BGA variant, suiting industrial workloads. The APEX 20K architecture combines look-up table (LUT) logic with embedded array blocks (EABs), allowing designers to implement both random logic and on-chip memory in a single device. The high logic-to-pin ratio (488 I/O on 16,640 cells) makes the part efficient for parallel buses, telecommunications backplanes, and high-speed instrumentation front-ends. Typical applications include telecommunications line-card processing, high-speed DSP pre-processing, industrial motion control, video/imaging pipelines, and ASIC prototyping where 400K gates provide adequate headroom for moderately complex designs. Designers should review the Altera Device Package Information Data Sheet for the taller thermally enhanced BGA mechanical outline before committing PCB footprints, and consult Quartus / MAX+PLUS II configuration notes to plan the JTAG or passive serial programming chain. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives within the APEX 20K family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K400EFC672-1 - APEX 20KE FPGA 400K Gates 672-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400EFC672-1 is a member of the APEX 20KE family of SRAM-based Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering up to 400,000 system gates and 16,640 logic elements in a 672-pin FineLine BGA (FC-FBGA) package. It targets high-density, system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration with MultiCore architecture combining look-up tables, product-term logic, and embedded memory in a single fabric. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that lets designers implement custom digital logic after PCB fabrication. Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, FPGAs sit above CPLDs and below fixed-function ASICs in design flexibility. The APEX 20KE family was Altera's flagship high-density platform before the Stratix era, and was widely adopted for telecom, networking, and DSP prototyping designs of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Key features of the EP20K400EFC672-1 include 488 user I/O pins, up to 212,992 bits of embedded SRAM, a 1.8V core supply with 2.5V/3.3V tolerant I/O, and support for multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, and HSTL. The -1 speed grade corresponds to a 368 MHz internal operation. The MultiCore architecture integrates LUT-based logic, embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory, and product-term logic for fast register-intensive functions. Typical applications include high-speed telecommunications backplanes, ASIC prototyping, digital signal processing pipelines, network switching fabrics, and embedded control systems where hundreds of thousands of gates are needed without the NRE cost of an ASIC. The device supports in-system programmability via JTAG and Altera's MAX+PLUS II or Quartus design flows. When designing with the EP20K400EFC672-1, careful PCB layout is critical because the 672-ball FC-FBGA package requires microvia technology and controlled-impedance routing. Engineers should provide multiple decoupling capacitors near the balls, follow Intel/Altera's reference decoupling guidelines, and validate signal integrity on high-speed I/O using IBIS models. This page synthesizes current distributor pricing, drop-in same-brand alternatives, and engineering context not found in the original manufacturer datasheet, helping procurement and design engineers make informed lifecycle decisions.