FPGA & CPLD
Products (6357)
EP20K400FI672-2N - APEX 20K 400K Gates FPGA 672-FCBGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP20K400FI672-2N is a high-density member of the APEX 20K family of SRAM-based Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), integrating 400,000 typical gates, 16,640 logic cells (logic elements), and 488 maximum user I/O pins in a 672-pin FC-FBGA (Flip-Chip Fine-pitch BGA) package. The device is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process, supports a core voltage of 2.5 V, and is rated for commercial operating conditions. The "-2N" suffix designates the speed grade (-2) and a lead-free / RoHS-compliant package option. Internal embedded array blocks (EABs) provide dedicated dual-port RAM and product-term logic, allowing the EP20K400 to be configured for memory-intensive datapaths, FIFOs, and DSP pipelines without consuming general logic resources. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a class of programmable logic device (PLD) that combines an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable routing channels, and I/O blocks into a single semiconductor die. In the system hierarchy, FPGAs sit above CPLDs and below custom ASICs: they offer higher logic density and richer I/O than CPLDs, and faster time-to-market than ASICs but at higher unit cost and power. APEX 20K was the first Altera family to combine look-up-table (LUT) logic with embedded array blocks (EABs) of dual-port RAM, providing a hybrid LUT-plus-memory architecture that pre-dated the modern ALM/M9K blocks found in later Cyclone and Stratix families. Key features of the EP20K400FI672-2N include 212,992 typical bits of embedded memory distributed across the EABs, support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and HSTL I/O standards through dedicated I/O element banks, and multi-volt I/O support for interfacing to 1.8 V, 2.5 V, and 3.3 V peripherals. The device supports in-system configuration via passive serial (PS), passive parallel synchronous (PPS), passive parallel asynchronous (PPA), and JTAG-based configuration, allowing flexible boot from EPC configuration PROMs, microcontrollers, or JTAG chains. The 672-pin FC-FBGA (Flip-Chip Fine-pitch BGA) package provides 488 usable user I/O channels and excellent thermal performance for high-utilization designs. The EP20K400FI672-2N is built on a look-up-table fabric combined with dedicated EABs, so each logic element can implement any 4-input Boolean function while EABs deliver synchronous dual-port RAM up to 2,048 bits each. This hybrid LUT/memory architecture was innovative at introduction and remains useful for legacy designs requiring predictable timing closure on memory-rich datapaths (e.g., FIFOs, shift registers, DSP filters) where modern 7-series FPGAs would require larger and more expensive parts. The 0.22 µm process and 2.5 V core result in a typical quiescent power in the 1-2 W range, with maximum power depending on toggle rate and I/O utilization. Typical applications for the EP20K400FI672-2N include high-density glue logic in telecom line cards, PCI/PCI-X bridge implementations, custom DSP preprocessing for baseband and image pipelines, and ASIC prototyping platforms. It is also frequently used as a bridge between parallel microcontrollers and high-speed serial buses (such as LVDS links) and as a re-programmable controller in industrial automation modules where field firmware updates are required. When designing with this part, note that the APEX 20K family is now in the legacy/extended-life portfolio. Lead times and stocking are constrained to specialty distributors, and Intel/Altera recommends migration to the Cyclone or MAX series for new designs. Existing users should treat the EP20K400 as a long-term-supported, not-actively-marketed component with stable firmware compatibility via the Quartus II design toolchain (versions 4.0 through 13.0 depending on the specific device variant).
EP20K400FI672-2V - APEX 20K 400K FPGA, 502 I/O, 672-FBGA | Intel
The Intel EP20K400FI672-2V is a member of the APEX 20K family of Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) delivering 400,000 system gates with 16,640 logic elements in a 672-pin Fine-pitch Ball Grid Array (FBGA) package. The device integrates 502 user I/O pins, supports a 200 MHz internal operation, and is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process running from a 2.5 V core supply. The "-2V" speed grade and "FI" package suffix denote the commercial temperature grade (0 °C to 85 °C) and the FBGA pin-out variant. According to the manufacturer datasheet, the EP20K400 implements Altera's MultiCore architecture combining Look-Up Tables (LUTs), Embedded System Blocks (ESBs) for memory and FIFO functions, and a high-speed interconnect fabric. What is a FPGA? A Field-Programmable Gate Array is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that allows designers to configure logic blocks and interconnect routing after manufacturing. FPGAs sit within the broader taxonomy of programmable logic (PLD -> CPLD -> FPGA) and serve as semiconductor building blocks for digital systems requiring parallelism, high I/O counts, and hardware-level reconfiguration. APEX 20K was historically the industry's first PLD family marketed as a System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) platform, integrating dedicated memory blocks, a wide internal datapath, and high-speed I/O on a single die. Key features include 212,992 embedded system bits for distributed RAM/ROM, 16,640 logic cells, a 2.5 ns propagation delay class, and up to 502 user I/O pins. The 672-pin FBGA package provides a compact high-density interconnect suitable for multi-layer PCB designs. The device supports in-system configuration via serial or parallel PROM interfaces, JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) boundary-scan, and active serial configuration modes. Because this part belongs to a mature, multi-decade product family, designers should expect stable toolchain support through the Altera Quartus II design software. Typical applications include telecommunications line-card glue logic, industrial control backplanes, ASIC prototyping, high-density bus interfacing, and SOPC integration blocks. Its combination of embedded memory and high I/O count makes it particularly well-suited to systems that previously required multiple CPLDs and discrete glue logic. The APEX 20K 400K device also pairs naturally with high-speed SRAM and SDRAM controllers, providing an integrated memory-plus-logic subsystem on a single part. When designing with the EP20K400FI672-2V, ensure the PCB supports the BGA fan-out routing rules and that the 2.5 V core supply is decoupled with low-ESR ceramic capacitors placed within 5 mm of each power pin. The device's I/O banks support multiple voltage standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL), but each bank must share a single VCCIO reference. JTAG boundary-scan compliance (IEEE 1149.1) is preserved throughout the lifetime of the family, simplifying board-level test. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package variants, and practical design notes for the EP20K400FI672-2V that the manufacturer datasheet alone does not provide.
EP20K400FI672-2VN 2.5V APEX-20K FPGA | Intel
Intel EP20K400FI672-2VN is a high-density APEX-20K programmable logic device built around the MultiCore architecture, integrating lookup-table logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory. The verified specifications identify 16,640 logic elements, 212,992 bits of RAM, 502 user I/O pins, a 2.5 V supply, and 672 terminals in a ball-grid-array package. Search results conflict on the precise ball count, identifying the package as BGA-652, 672-BBGA, or S-PBGA-B672, so the physical package identity requires datasheet verification before layout release. The suffix is associated with a 2 ns speed grade, while published delay listings vary between 2.5 ns and 3.1 ns; engineers should rely on the manufacturer timing tables for the selected configuration. An FPGA, or field-programmable gate array, is a semiconductor containing configurable logic blocks, programmable routing, and input/output resources that can be configured after manufacturing. It belongs to the hierarchy programmable logic device, PLD, FPGA, and integrated circuit. Unlike a fixed-function ASIC, an FPGA can be reprogrammed during development and, in many applications, in-system. APEX-20K devices extend the FPGA concept by combining LUT-based and product-term-based resources with enhanced embedded memory for system-on-a-programmable-chip integration. The principal verified resources are 16,640 logic cells, 1,664 logic array blocks, 212,992 RAM bits, and 502 programmable I/O lines. Its 2.5 V supply supports the legacy CMOS implementation, while the large I/O count makes the device useful for bus-intensive and interface-rich systems. A 200 MHz capability is reported by one distributor, and operating temperature is specified as 0 °C to 85 °C. These values support substantial digital processing, but they should not substitute for the complete manufacturer timing, power, and configuration specifications. Architecturally, APEX-20K MultiCore technology combines LUT-based logic, product-term logic, and memory structures on one programmable platform. This heterogeneous resource mix can implement combinational logic, state machines, control functions, and moderate data-storage functions without immediately requiring a separate configuration memory or support device. The available source data does not provide configuration interface details, supported I/O standards, transceiver count, process geometry, or exact RAM organization; those parameters must be obtained from the manufacturer datasheet and selected-device documentation. Typical applications include high-speed industrial control, communications-interface aggregation, test equipment, image or data preprocessing, and legacy digital systems that benefit from 502 user I/O pins. It is also suitable for prototyping configurable interfaces and logic consolidation. Because the part is from the mature APEX-20K family, lifecycle and tooling support should be confirmed before new production commitments. PCB design must start with the official ball-map and package drawing because verified search results disagree between 652 and 672 physical ball descriptions. Preserve programmable-I/O placement constraints, provide complete power distribution for the 2.5 V rail, and follow the configuration-interface guidance in the manufacturer documentation. Validate signal integrity, simultaneous-switching output limits, thermal behavior, and I/O bank restrictions after the exact package is resolved. This product record combines exact verified resources, package discrepancies, commercial data availability, and engineering cautions. It distinguishes confirmed values from unresolved package and timing details so procurement, PCB layout, and obsolescence-mitigation decisions can proceed without treating distributor snippets as a substitute for the complete manufacturer data sheet.
EP20K400FI672-2X - 400K Gate APEX 20K FPGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400FI672-2X is a member of the APEX 20K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), a programmable logic device family that combines logic elements, embedded memory blocks (ESBs), and a network of high-speed interconnects on a single die. Housed in a 672-ball BGA package with 496 user I/O pins, the device integrates approximately 400,000 system gates (typical) and provides 212,992 bits of embedded SRAM together with 16,640 logic elements, making it suitable for high-density logic, datapath, and memory-intensive designs in telecommunications, networking, and DSP front-end applications. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that allows the designer to configure its logic resources, interconnect, and I/O behavior after manufacture. Within the broader programmable logic taxonomy, FPGAs sit alongside CPLDs (Complex Programmable Logic Devices), SPLDs (Simple PLDs), and ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits). APEX 20K was an early multi-core architecture that combined Look-Up Table (LUT)-based logic elements with embedded system blocks (ESBs) usable as RAM, ROM, or FIFO, allowing designers to build complete systems-on-a-chip on a single FPGA fabric. The -2X speed grade and industrial temperature rating make the EP20K400FI672-2X suitable for moderate-performance industrial applications requiring guaranteed timing closure across a -40C to +85C operating range. The device is configured via Altera's legacy Quartus II (or MAX+PLUS II) toolchain using SRAM-based configuration memory, typically loaded from a serial configuration EPROM at power-up. MultiVolt I/O support allows interfacing with 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V, and 5V devices without external level translation, simplifying board-level integration in mixed-voltage systems. Key architectural features include a four-level hierarchical interconnect structure with FastTrack routing, dedicated carry chains for high-speed arithmetic, embedded CAM blocks for content-addressable memory, and JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) boundary-scan test support. The device is fabricated in a 0.18 um CMOS process with six layers of metal interconnect, operating from a 1.8V core supply. Per-pin I/O registers and dedicated clock management circuits support high-bandwidth datapath designs typical of communications infrastructure. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, network switches and routers, DSP co-processors, high-speed serial protocol bridging (UTOPIA, POS-PHY, RapidIO), video and image processing pipelines, and industrial control systems. The wide I/O count (496 pins) supports many parallel bus interfaces, while the embedded memory enables efficient on-chip FIFO buffering for streaming data. When designing with this part, ensure proper decoupling (0.1 uF + bulk capacitance per VCC/GND pair), careful power-plane segmentation between the 1.8V core and 3.3V I/O rails, and JTAG chain planning for in-system programming. Note that the APEX 20K family is now legacy / NRND (Not Recommended for New Designs); consider Cyclone, Arria, or Stratix equivalents for new designs unless second-source legacy supply is required.
EP20K400FI672-3 - APEX 20K 400K-Gate FPGA, 672-BGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K400FI672-3 is a high-density CMOS Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the APEX 20K family, delivering up to 400,000 gates of logic capacity in a 672-terminal Plastic BGA (S-PBGA-B672) package with 1.000 mm terminal pitch. This device integrates 502 user I/O lines with a 3.6 ns propagation delay, supporting a maximum clock frequency of 833 MHz across its embedded logic and memory resources. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor IC containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and dedicated I/O cells that engineers can program after manufacture to implement arbitrary digital logic. Within the broader taxonomy, FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs and CPLDs, occupying a role where high logic density, parallel processing, and in-system reprogrammability are required. The APEX 20K series specifically combines logic elements with embedded memory blocks, allowing single-chip implementation of complex glue logic, datapath, and buffering functions. Key specifications of the EP20K400FI672-3 include a nominal 2.5 V core supply (operating range 2.375 V to 2.625 V), 16640 logic elements, 212992 bits of embedded RAM, and 502 maximum user I/Os. The device is built on a CMOS process with 0.18 µm (or finer) technology, and supports in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary-scan interface and Altera's proprietary configuration scheme. The -3 speed grade trades slightly slower timing margins for lower cost compared to -2 and -1 grades. Typical applications for the EP20K400FI672-3 span telecommunications line cards, industrial control backplanes, networking bridges, and legacy PCI/PCI-X bus controllers where the APEX 20K architecture remains deployed. Its high I/O count (502) and generous memory resources make it especially suited for parallel bus aggregation and protocol bridging. When designing with this FPGA, ensure that the power supply sequencing matches Altera's APEX 20K reference design and that all I/O banks receive proper VCCIO voltages before driving outputs. Decoupling capacitors must be placed close to each power pin. JTAG configuration programming requires the Altera ByteBlaster or compatible download cable. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same APEX 20K family, and practical design notes not found in the standard manufacturer datasheet. All pricing is referenced as of 2026-09-08.
EP20K400FI672-3N - 833 MHz FPGA, 502 I/O, 672-PBGA
Altera EP20K400FI672-3N is a high-density APEX 20K programmable logic device implemented as a CMOS loadable programmable logic device, with a 2.5 V nominal supply, 502 user I/O lines, and a 672-terminal PBGA package. The verified data identifies a 3.6 ns propagation delay and a maximum clock frequency of 833 MHz. These values place the part in the APEX 20K family of programmable logic devices intended for logic integration, interface aggregation, and configurable digital systems. A field-programmable gate array, or FPGA, is a semiconductor device containing programmable logic elements, routing resources, and configurable input/output cells. FPGA architecture sits within the broader hierarchy of programmable logic, then digital logic ICs, integrated circuits, and semiconductors. Unlike a fixed-function application-specific integrated circuit, an FPGA can be configured after manufacturing, allowing designers to implement changing logic requirements without producing a new custom mask set. The EP20K400FI672-3N combines a 2.5 V nominal operating point with a 2.375 V to 2.625 V supply range. Its 502 I/O lines make the device relevant to systems that need many parallel connections or several external bus interfaces. The 3.6 ns propagation delay and 833 MHz maximum clock frequency are important timing indicators, although actual design performance depends on the selected configuration, routing, I/O standards, load, and power conditions. The device is built using CMOS technology and is offered in a 672-terminal PBGA package identified as S-PBGA-B672, with 1.000 mm terminal pitch. This high-pin-count package supports the device's extensive I/O capability but requires careful BGA assembly, escape routing, power distribution, and thermal analysis. The large number of terminals also makes footprint verification essential when considering a replacement. Typical applications include telecommunications interface equipment, industrial control and automation, and high-density digital processing platforms. It can serve as configurable glue logic, protocol or bus bridging infrastructure, or an integration layer for multiple peripheral interfaces. The exact architecture, logic capacity, configuration method, supported I/O standards, and operating-temperature grade are not present in the supplied verified data and require the manufacturer documentation before final design approval. For design-in, verify the complete pin assignment, required supply rails, decoupling network, configuration interface, and timing constraints against the official manufacturer datasheet. A proposed replacement must match the 672-terminal PBGA footprint and pinout as well as the relevant electrical and timing parameters. This page combines the supplied distributor and manufacturer-source findings with clearly marked data gaps and does not infer unverified specifications.
EP20K400FI672-3V - APEX 20K 400K-Gate FPGA 672-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400FI672-3V is a 400,000-gate member of the APEX 20K family of CMOS field-programmable gate arrays, housed in a 672-ball FineLine BGA package and qualified to the -3 (faster) speed grade. The device integrates up to 212,992 logic elements (16,640 logic elements per the EP20K400 sub-family), 502 user I/O lines, and a maximum clock frequency of 714.2 MHz per the published Intel parametric data. An APEX 20K device is a programmable logic device (PLD) that combines look-up table (LUT)-based logic elements, embedded system blocks (ESBs) for RAM/ROM and product-term functions, and a MultiCore interconnect in a single die. In the product-type hierarchy APEX 20K belongs to FPGAs -> programmable logic -> logic ICs -> integrated circuits. APEX 20K sits between classic CPLDs and modern Stratix-class FPGAs, and is widely regarded as a MultiPLD architecture because it fuses PAL-like and FPGA-like resources on one chip. Key features of the EP20K400FI672-3V include 502 maximum user I/O pins (496 user I/O plus 6 dedicated inputs in the variant), a 2.5 V nominal core supply with a 2.375 V to 2.625 V tolerance band, in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG port, and embedded memory blocks configurable as dual-port RAM, ROM, CAM, FIFO, or product-term logic. The FineLine BGA-672 package uses a 1.0 mm ball pitch and supports surface-mount assembly. The device is built on a 0.18 µm CMOS process with a 4-metal-layer architecture, allowing up to 1.6 Mbits of RAM and supporting LVCMOS, LVTTL, SSTL, GTL+, and HSTL I/O standards. The high gate density and embedded memory make it well suited to high-throughput glue logic, datapath merging, and bus-interface conversion tasks. The 672-BGA footprint and APEX 20K silicon preserve pin-compatibility with the EP20K400FI672-3, EP20K400FI672-2V, EP20K400FI672-1V, and EP20K400FC672-3V variants in the same package code. Typical applications include telecom backplane glue logic, ASIC prototyping, network interface bridging, high-speed datapath processing, and multi-channel serial-protocol aggregation. The 400K-gate density and embedded memory are particularly useful where multiple legacy CPLDs or discrete TTL/CMOS logic would otherwise be needed on a single board. When designing with the EP20K400FI672-3V, pay attention to multi-voltage I/O bank planning because the APEX 20K family requires careful VCCIO banking for mixed-voltage interfaces. Altera MAX+PLUS II or Quartus II design software must be used for synthesis, fitting, and JTAG programming because this is a legacy device family. This page synthesizes distributor inventory, drop-in package-compatible alternatives from the same EP20K400 family, and design considerations that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K400FI672-3X - APEX 20K 400K Gates FPGA, 672-BGA | Altera/Intel
The Altera/Intel EP20K400FI672-3X is a high-density APEX 20K family field-programmable gate array (FPGA) housed in a 672-ball fine-pitch BGA package, featuring up to 400,000 system gates and a CMOS Loadable PLD architecture. Headline parameters include a 2.5 V nominal core supply (2.375 V to 2.625 V), 833 MHz maximum internal clock frequency, 3.6 ns typical propagation delay, 502 user I/O lines, and a 1.000 mm terminal pitch on a BGA package qualified to MSL 3 with 220 C peak reflow. Background: A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that an engineer can re-program in the field to implement arbitrary digital logic. FPGAs sit hierarchically under the broader category of programmable logic devices (PLDs) - alongside CPLDs and older PROMs/PALs - and above simple fixed-function ASICs in the digital IC taxonomy. The APEX 20K family, introduced by Altera in 1999, was among the first "system-on-a-programmable-chip" families combining embedded memory blocks and look-up-table logic with True-LVDS and PLL support, paving the way for modern SoC FPGAs. Key features that distinguish the EP20K400FI672-3X include its 400K system-gate capacity, MultiCore architecture combining fine-grain logic elements with embedded array blocks (EABs) for on-chip memory, dedicated clock management with PLL blocks, JTAG boundary-scan support, and true 3.3 V/5 V tolerant I/O on selected banks. The '3' speed grade places it in the higher-performance tier of the family for the 672-pin BGA variant. Technical depth: The -3X suffix indicates an industrial temperature range and the speed-grade 3 silicon; the device uses a CMOS SRAM configuration cell that must be loaded from an external configuration PROM or controller on every power-up. Compared with modern 7 nm FPGAs, the 400K-gate APEX 20K consumes substantially more static power and offers less DSP/serdes integration, but remains useful for legacy designs, long-life industrial systems, and cost-sensitive parallel-logic replacement. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial motor control, legacy DSP preprocessing, military/aerospace upgrades of older designs, and ASIC prototyping. The wide I/O count (502) supports many parallel bus interfaces without external muxes. Design consideration: Plan a robust configuration scheme (EPCS/Cyclone-style or legacy EPC2 PROM with JTAG fallback) because the SRAM-based APEX 20K loses configuration at every power cycle. Decouple each VCCINT/VCCIO plane with 0.1 uF plus 10 uF ceramic, and respect the 1.0 mm BGA pitch with via-in-pad or dog-bone fan-out for signal integrity on high-speed clocks. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same APEX 20K family, and practical design notes not found in the original Altera datasheet - useful for engineers maintaining long-life FPGA designs.
EP20K400FI784-1 - 400K APEX 20K PLD, 784-BGA, 6.1 GHz | Altera
The Altera EP20K400FI784-1 is a Loadable Programmable Logic Device (PLD) from the APEX 20K family, packaged in a 784-ball Fine-pitch Ball Grid Array (S-PBGA-B784) and offering up to 400,000 usable gates of logic capacity. The -1 speed grade provides a maximum internal clock frequency of 6.1 GHz, and the industrial-temperature "I" suffix indicates an operating junction-temperature window of -40°C to +100°C. Configuration is loaded through Altera's serial configuration scheme, and the device supports 3.3 V / 5 V multi-voltage I/O with PCI-compliant drive characteristics. An APEX 20K PLD belongs to the broader category of programmable logic devices (PLDs), which sit hierarchically below FPGAs in design complexity but above classic CPLDs in usable gate count. The APEX 20K architecture combines a lookup-table-based logic-element fabric with embedded array blocks (EABs) that act as on-chip memory or wide-function logic. This hybrid LUT-plus-EAB approach made the family a popular choice for designs that needed both fine-grained logic and moderate-density RAM in a single chip. Key parametric differentiators include 400,000 usable gates, 1,560 logic elements, 212,992 bits of embedded memory (distributed across EABs), 488 maximum user I/O, and JTAG/IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan support. The device operates from a 1.8 V core and 3.3 V/5 V tolerant I/O supply, with four dedicated input pins and a wide-multiplexer routing fabric. Hot-socketing and PCI-clamp diode protection are integrated on every I/O pin. Architecturally, EP20K400FI784-1 is built on a 0.18 µm CMOS process with six layers of metal interconnect. The four-input LUT logic elements are grouped into MegaLAB structures that share local interconnect, while EABs each provide 2,048 bits of synchronous RAM configurable as 256x8, 512x4, 1024x2, or 2048x1. Signal-integrity analysis is simplified by the BGA package's short-lead, controlled-impedance bond wires, and the device supports a multiVolt I/O core that can be placed adjacent to legacy 5 V ASICs without level shifters. Typical applications include high-density glue logic, telecom line-card controllers, multi-channel protocol bridges (UTOPIA, POS-PHY), industrial motion-control sequencers, and pre-silicon prototyping of ASIC RTL where deterministic timing closure matters. The 784-BGA footprint also makes it practical for board-level hardware-in-the-loop simulation. When designing with this part, observe Altera's decoupling guideline of one 0.1 µF X7R plus one 10 µF tantalum per supply rail placed within 50 mil of the package, and dedicate a clean ground-return island under the BGA's center cross. The JTAG chain must be ordered TCK→TDI→TDO with a 1 kΩ pull-up on TCK to avoid spurious configuration. This page synthesizes distributor stock, package-level alternatives, and engineering design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K400FI784-2 - 400K Gate APEX 20K FPGA, 784-BGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K400FI784-2 is a member of the APEX 20K family of programmable logic devices (PLDs), delivering approximately 400,000 typical gates in a 784-ball FineLine BGA package. Operating from a nominal 2.5 V core supply (2.375 V min, 2.625 V max) and supporting industrial-grade -40 °C to +100 °C temperatures, the device integrates embedded system blocks (ESBs) for memory and arithmetic functions alongside a look-up-table (LUT)-based logic fabric. The FineLine BGA-784 package has a 1.000 mm ball pitch and is supplied in a Speed Grade -2 variant (tuned timing closure).
EP20K400FI784-3 - APEX 20K 400K Gates 784-BGA FPGA | Intel
The Intel EP20K400FI784-3 is a member of the APEX 20K programmable logic device family, delivering up to 400,000 typical gates in a 784-ball Plastic Ball Grid Array (PBGA) package. It operates from a nominal 2.5 V supply (2.375 V to 2.625 V) with industrial temperature range of -40 °C to +100 °C, and is built on a 0.18 µm CMOS process with SRAM-based look-up table (LUT) and embedded MegaFunction blocks. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that can be re-programmed after manufacturing. APEX 20K combines logic, memory, and high-speed I/O on a single die, making it a precursor to modern system-on-chip FPGAs. Within the broader taxonomy, the EP20K400FI784-3 belongs to: FPGA -> Programmable Logic -> Logic IC -> Integrated Circuit -> Semiconductor. Key features include up to 400K typical gates (approx. 16,640 logic elements), 4 dedicated inputs, on-chip PLL for clock management, multi-standard I/O support, and embedded system blocks (ESBs) usable as dual-port RAM, FIFO, or CAM. The 784-ball PBGA package has a 1.000 mm terminal pitch, 2.7000 mm seated height maximum, and plastic/epoxy body material. The architecture uses SRAM configuration cells that must be loaded from an external configuration device on every power-up. Speed grade -3 denotes the slowest of the three commercial/industrial grades offered in this family, trading Fmax for the lowest price position. The device supports 3.3 V, 32-bit PCI, LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and GTL+ I/O standards via flexible I/O banks. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial control and automation, ASIC prototyping, and high-speed data acquisition front-ends. The embedded memory and DSP-friendly MegaFunction blocks make the device well-suited for pre-silicon validation of complex digital systems. When designing with the EP20K400FI784-3, ensure a stable 2.5 V core supply with proper decoupling and that the configuration EPROM is sized appropriately for the bitstream. Speed grade -3 is recommended only when timing closure is comfortably met; choose -2 or -1 if the design approaches Fmax limits. This page synthesizes distributor availability, drop-in same-family alternatives, and practical design guidance beyond what is captured in the original APEX 20K datasheet.
EP20K400GC652-1XV - 400K Gate APEX 20K FPGA | Altera | BGA-652
The Altera EP20K400GC652-1XV is a high-density APEX 20K family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) implementing approximately 400,000 system gates in a thermally-enhanced 652-pin BGA package. It pairs a MultiCore architecture with 1664 logic elements (Macros), 212,992 bits of embedded SRAM, and 502 user I/O pins for high-bandwidth system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration. Operating from a 2.5 V core supply, it offers 2.5 ns propagation delay suitable for high-performance datapath, telecom, and DSP front-end designs. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory, and programmable interconnect that can be reconfigured by the end user after manufacture. FPGAs occupy the upper tier of programmable logic devices (PLDs) — above SPLDs and CPLDs — and below mask-programmed ASICs in density and NRE cost. They are widely used for ASIC prototyping, glue logic, accelerator offload, and low-to-mid volume custom compute where mask NRE is not amortizable. The APEX 20K family specifically introduced MultiCore integration of look-up tables, product-term logic, and embedded memory in a single fabric, enabling true SOPC designs on a single programmable die. Key features include 1664 Macros, 212,992 bits of embedded SRAM, 502 user I/O pins, JTAG-based in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1, and a thermally-enhanced BGA-652 package. The -1 speed grade designates the standard performance bin within the APEX 20K 1.8 V/2.5 V core family, and the 'V' suffix marks RoHS-compliant lead-free assembly. The MultiCore architecture combines look-up-table (LUT) logic, embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory, and FastTrack continuous routing interconnect, allowing designers to allocate logic, memory, and DSP on a per-region basis. With up to 212 Kbits of distributed and block RAM, large FIFO buffers and datapath registers can be implemented on-chip, removing external memory bottlenecks in many datapath and telecom designs. Typical applications include telecommunications line-card glue logic, DSP co-processing and bus interfacing, ASIC prototyping for system-on-chip designs, image and video processing front-ends, and industrial control backplanes. The 502 user I/O pins provide abundant connectivity for parallel bus standards, memory interfaces, and LVDS signalling. When designing with this device, ensure the PCB land pattern follows JEDEC BGA-652 recommendations, provide a minimum of four PCB layers with dedicated power and ground planes, and use Altera's Quartus II design software (legacy support) or compatible third-party synthesis for place-and-route. Decoupling must follow Altera's recommended capacitor network to limit core-rail transients during simultaneous-switching output events. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same APEX 20K family, and practical design notes not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a single reference for evaluation and procurement.
EP20K400GC655-1 - 400K Gate APEX 20K FPGA, 655-pin CPGA | Intel/Altera
The Intel/Altera EP20K400GC655-1 is a 400,000-gate member of the APEX 20K programmable logic device family, integrating 16,640 logic elements and 212,992 RAM bits in a 655-pin Ceramic Pin Grid Array (CPGA) package. Speed grade -1 corresponds to a maximum internal clock frequency of 250 MHz on a 0.22 µm CMOS process, with a 2.5 V core supply. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that combines LUT-based logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks on a single die. The APEX 20K series was the industry's first PLD family to integrate MultiCore architecture that fuses look-up table logic with embedded system blocks, enabling true system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration. Within the broader taxonomy, the EP20K400 sits at the intersection of FPGA, programmable logic device (PLD), and system-on-chip integration - bridging discrete logic and ASIC-class functionality. Key features include up to 502 user I/O pins, 4 embedded system blocks (ESBs) totaling 212,992 bits of RAM, a 32-bit FastTrack interconnect routing fabric, and JTAG-compliant IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan test support. The device supports in-system programmability via passive serial, passive parallel asynchronous, and passive parallel synchronous configuration modes, with optional EPC configuration devices. The EP20K400 uses 0.22 µm CMOS technology on a 2.5 V core with 3.3 V I/O compatibility, providing a propagation delay as low as 2.5 ns. The MultiCore architecture enables designers to instantiate LUT-based logic, product-term logic, and dual-port RAM within the same device, eliminating the need for separate glue logic and memory chips. Typical applications include telecommunications infrastructure (SONET/SDH framer ICs, ATM switching), high-speed data acquisition, DSP preprocessing, encryption engines, and industrial control systems. The large gate count and embedded memory make the EP20K400 suitable for designs that would otherwise require multiple discrete FPGAs or ASICs. When designing with the EP20K400GC655-1, plan power sequencing to bring the 2.5 V core up before or simultaneously with I/O banks to avoid latch-up. The ceramic CPGA package requires careful thermal management - consider forced-air cooling for sustained junction temperatures above 100 °C, and use socketed mounting for prototyping with the through-hole pin grid. This page synthesizes distributor availability, same-family drop-in alternatives from the Site MPN library, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer's datasheet - giving engineers a single source for sourcing and second-source decisions on legacy APEX 20K designs.
EP20K400GC655-1V - APEX 20KE FPGA 400K Gates | Altera
The Altera (now Intel) EP20K400GC655-1V is a high-density APEX 20KE family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 400,000 gates, 16,640 logic elements, and 212,992 bits of embedded memory in a 655-ball Ceramic Ball Grid Array (CBGA655) package. The device operates from a 1.8 V core supply with LVDS-compatible I/O, supports 496 user I/O pins plus 6 dedicated inputs, and is built on a 0.18 µm CMOS process with MultiCore architecture combining look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device whose logic functionality is defined after manufacturing by the user, placing it in the broader hierarchy: programmable logic device (PLD) -> FPGA -> complex programmable logic device (CPLD) -> logic IC -> integrated circuit. The APEX 20KE family is Altera's second-generation MultiCore architecture targeting system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration, allowing designers to combine soft processor cores, dedicated multipliers, memory, and high-speed I/O on a single die. Key features include 16,640 logic elements, 212,992 RAM bits distributed across embedded array blocks (EABs), dedicated FastTrack routing, support for LVDS I/O, in-system programmability via the IEEE 1532 boundary-scan interface, and a -1V speed grade targeting clock frequencies up to 250 MHz. The CBGA655 ceramic package supports high-reliability industrial and military temperature grades and is rated for a peak reflow temperature of 220 °C per the JEDEC J-STD-020 surface-mount standard. Architecturally the EP20K400GC655-1V separates logic into MegaLAB structures that group 16 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), each containing 10 Logic Elements (LEs), with embedded array blocks (EABs) for wide memory functions and product-term array blocks for arithmetic. This hybrid LUT/product-term/memory fabric is unique to the APEX 20K series and offers higher effective density than pure-LUT competitors of the same era. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial control and motor drives, military and avionics signal processing, medical imaging front-ends, and high-performance ASIC prototyping where 400K gates of custom logic are required. The wide I/O count (496 pins) makes it suitable for parallel bus architectures, multi-channel data acquisition, and protocol bridging. When designing with this part, plan JTAG programming into the PCB layout (TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO plus VCCIO/GND), follow Intel/Altera AN-140 multi-volt I/O guidelines, and confirm Quartus II or MAX+PLUS II toolchain support for the -1V speed grade in your design flow. Ceramic BGA substrates also require controlled soldering profiles and X-ray inspection of solder joints. This page aggregates distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and design notes for the EP20K400GC655-1V, helping engineers evaluate supply and second-source options that the original datasheet does not present in one place.
EP20K400GC655-1X - 400K-Gate APEX 20K FPGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K400GC655-1X is an APEX 20K family field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 400K gates, 16,640 logic elements, and 496 user I/O lines, specified for 250 MHz system operation and packaged in a 655-pin ceramic pin grid array (CPGA). It is a CMOS programmable logic device with a 2.5V core supply and 2.5V/3.3V I/O supply capability, and the verified web data reports a 2.5ns propagation delay and 6 dedicated inputs. An FPGA is a semiconductor device containing configurable logic blocks and programmable interconnects that the designer reconfigures after manufacturing. The EP20K400GC655-1X belongs to the hierarchy FPGA -> programmable logic device -> integrated circuit, and sits inside Altera APEX 20K family, which was one of the first programmable logic families intended for system-on-a-programmable-chip integration. Key features of this device include 400K usable gates, 16,640 logic elements, 496 available outputs, 6 dedicated inputs, a high-density 655-pin ceramic package, and support for 2.5V and mixed 2.5/3.3V supply environments. Its MultiCore architecture combines look-up table logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory, which lets the same FPGA handle register-intensive data paths, combinatorial control logic, and memory functions within one device. Fabricated with 0.22um CMOS technology and capable of 250MHz system frequencies, the EP20K400GC655-1X provides a large amount of legacy FPGA fabric for applications that require many parallel I/O signals in a ceramic package. Typical uses include networking and telecom line-card control logic, aerospace and defense signal processing, ASIC prototyping, high-performance instrumentation, and industrial control systems. When designing with this part, pay close attention to the separate 2.5V core and 2.5/3.3V I/O supply rails, decouple the ceramic PGA socket properly, and plan for a configuration device or JTAG download because FPGA configuration data is volatile. This page synthesizes distributor availability, drop-in family alternatives, and practical design notes that are not compiled in one place by datasheet archives, providing engineers a single source for replacement and lifecycle planning.
EP20K400GC655-2 - 400K Gates APEX-20KC FPGA 655-BCPGA | Altera
The Altera (now Intel) EP20K400GC655-2 is a member of the APEX-20KC® family of SRAM-based, multi-vendor I/O FPGAs, integrating 400,000 system gates, 16,640 logic elements (cells), and 212,992 bits of embedded memory into a 655-pin ceramic pin grid array (CPGA) measuring 62.48 x 62.48 mm. It is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process, runs at a maximum internal frequency of 200 MHz, and is specified with a -2 speed grade offering faster timing closure than -1, with the part delivering state-of-the-art 3.1 ns CPGA655 pin-to-pin response time for high-throughput datapaths. Core supply voltage is 2.5 V with MultiVolt I/O supporting 1.71 V to 1.89 V for LVDS-compatible interfaces. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells, allowing hardware designers to implement arbitrary digital logic that is re-programmable in the field. FPGAs sit hierarchically between simple programmable logic devices (PALs, GALs, CPLDs) and fixed-function ASICs, and APEX-20KC devices occupy the high-density end of that hierarchy by combining LUT-based logic, product-term logic, and embedded system blocks (ESBs) that double as dual-port RAM, CAM, or ROM. Key differentiating specifications include MultiCore™ architecture integrating LUT logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory in a single fabric; high-speed LVDS I/O pairs for chip-to-chip serial links; 4 PLLs for clock conditioning and skew management; and embedded CAM for high-speed table lookup. The MultiVolt I/O interface allows direct connection to 1.8 V, 2.5 V, and 3.3 V buses without external level shifters, simplifying mixed-voltage board design. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, custom DSP datapaths, network protocol bridging, and embedded control for industrial automation where deterministic logic and high I/O count outweigh the cost of an ASIC. The ceramic CPGA package is preferred for high-reliability and military-temperature programs because of its hermeticity and superior thermal performance over plastic BGAs. When designing with this device, allocate at least four PCB layers for controlled-impedance routing, provide decoupling of 0.1 µF + 10 µF near every VCCINT/VCCIO pin pair, and configure unused I/O pins as tri-state inputs with internal pull-up to minimize leakage. Because the APEX-20KC family has been EOL'd by Intel, plan second-source or migration to Cyclone/Stratix equivalents early in the design cycle. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible same-family alternatives, and practical design notes not consolidated in the original APEX-20KC datasheet - useful for engineers maintaining legacy systems or qualifying alternate sources under PCN constraints.
EP20K400GC655-2N - APEX 20KC FPGA 400K Gates | Intel/Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400GC655-2N is a member of the APEX 20KC programmable logic device family, delivering 400,000 system gates and 16,640 logic elements in a 655-pin ceramic pin-grid array (CPGA) package. It integrates 212,992 bits of embedded RAM and operates with a core supply of 1.71V to 1.89V (1.8V nominal) using 0.22 µm process technology. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory, I/O elements, and routing resources that the user programs after manufacture. FPGAs occupy a specific tier in the programmable logic hierarchy: they sit between fixed-function ASICs (high NRE, high volume) and CPLDs (smaller, simpler, non-volatile), offering the best balance of high logic density, parallel processing, hardware reconfigurability, and low-to-medium NRE cost for prototyping and low-volume production. Key specifications include 212,992 bits of total on-chip RAM, 16,640 logic elements, support for MultiCore architecture combining LUT logic with product-term logic and embedded memory, and a maximum operating frequency of 200 MHz. The device supports LVDS I/O and is built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process with 2.5V I/O tolerance. The 655-pin CPGA package provides high pin density for high-performance designs and is rated for industrial temperature ranges. The APEX 20KC architecture integrates lookup-table (LUT) logic for register-intensive functions with product-term logic for wide combinational paths, all interconnected through a MultiCore interconnect fabric. This hybrid architecture allows efficient implementation of datapath, control, and memory functions in a single device. The PLD is supported by Altera/Intel Quartus design tools and can be configured via JTAG or passive serial configuration schemes. Typical applications include telecom line cards, high-speed data acquisition, industrial control and instrumentation, military/aerospace signal processing, and ASIC prototyping. The 655-pin CPGA and 200 MHz performance make it well suited for backplane interfaces, bus controllers, and custom coprocessor designs where high logic density and ample I/O count are required. When designing with the EP20K400GC655-2N, ensure the 1.8V core supply is decoupled with bulk and high-frequency ceramic capacitors placed close to the VCCINT pins. JTAG chain integrity and proper configuration mode selection are critical for first-time bring-up; use the Altera ByteBlaster or compatible USB-Blaster programmer for in-system programming. This page synthesizes authorized distributor pricing, same-package drop-in alternatives from the APEX 20K/20KE family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, helping engineers evaluating legacy Altera silicon make informed lifecycle and substitution decisions.
EP20K400GC655-2V - 400K Gate APEX-20KC FPGA 655-CPGA | Altera
The Intel (Altera) EP20K400GC655-2V is a high-density APEX-20KC series Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering approximately 400,000 system gates in a 655-pin ceramic pin grid array (CPGA) package, with a core supply of 2.5 V and a speed grade of -2. According to the manufacturer datasheet, the device integrates 212,992 bits of embedded RAM, 16,640 logic elements, and Altera's MultiCore architecture that combines look-up-table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks on a single die. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory, and programmable I/O, all interconnected by a programmable routing fabric. FPGAs occupy the broader category of programmable logic devices (PLDs), which sit hierarchically between fixed-function ASICs and software-driven microcontrollers. The APEX-20KC family belongs to the system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) generation of Altera PLDs, designed for high-performance data-path and bus-interface applications. Key features of the EP20K400GC655-2V include 212,992 total RAM bits, 16,640 logic elements (LEs), embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory implementation, support for LVDS I/O, and a maximum toggle frequency aligned with the -2 speed grade. The MultiCore architecture allows designers to allocate silicon resources dynamically between register-intensive LUT logic and product-term logic, optimizing the device for DSP, datapath, and control-plane tasks. The 655-CPGA package is a ceramic pin grid array measuring 62.48 x 62.48 mm, intended for through-hole industrial and military-grade installations. Typical applications for the EP20K400GC655-2V span communications infrastructure (SONET/SDH framer, ATM switch fabric), industrial control and test equipment, military/aerospace embedded systems, and high-speed datapath glue logic. The combination of high logic density and embedded RAM makes it well suited to parallel processing, bus bridging, and custom protocol acceleration. The ceramic CPGA package and -2 speed grade also suit thermally demanding environments. When designing with this device, plan power sequencing carefully: the 2.5 V core must be stable before the I/O supplies ramp. Because the APEX-20KC uses legacy 0.18-micron CMOS with a 2.5 V core, signal integrity and decoupling on the high-pin-count CPGA are critical; follow the manufacturer's reference design for via placement and bulk/ceramic capacitor distribution around the array. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in APEX-20KC pin-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K400GC655-2X - 400K Gates APEX 20K FPGA, 655-CPGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K400GC655-2X is a member of the APEX 20K family of field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), delivering 400,000 system gates, 16,640 logic cells, and 212,992 bits of embedded memory in a 655-pin ceramic pin-grid array (CPGA) package. Housed in a 47x47 mm ceramic SPGA655 footprint with 496 user I/O pins and 6 dedicated inputs, this MultiCore architecture integrates look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks in a single die. The device is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process and operates from a 2.5 V core supply (the surrounding APEX 20KE family uses 1.8 V). A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that lets designers implement custom digital circuits through a combination of configurable logic blocks, routing fabric, I/O cells, and embedded memory. FPGAs sit at the top of the PLD hierarchy below application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), offering ASIC-like density with the reprogrammability of a standard part - an FPGA is essentially a 'system on a programmable chip' (SOPC) platform. Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, FPGAs belong to programmable logic > digital ICs > integrated circuits. Key features include 200 MHz internal operation, JTAG-based in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan interface, MultiVolt I/O support for interfacing to 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and 5 V buses, and a peak reflow-compatible temperature rating of 220 °C. The ceramic CPGA package provides hermetic sealing for high-reliability environments. The MultiCore architecture pairs 4-input LUTs for register-intensive datapaths with product-term logic for wide combinatorial decode, while dedicated embedded array blocks (EABs) provide true dual-port synchronous RAM up to 212,992 bits. This hybrid fabric enables efficient mapping of register-heavy state machines, DSP datapaths, and FIFOs without external memory. Typical applications include telecom line-card glue logic, military/aerospace signal processing, industrial control and instrumentation, and ASIC prototyping where high gate count and hermetic packaging matter. The ceramic CPGA makes it well suited for environments requiring extended temperature and mechanical robustness. When designing with this part, pay attention to the I/O bank voltage grouping and provide separate VCCIO rails for each bank. For new designs consider migrating to the APEX 20KE 1.8 V family or to the modern Cyclone series, as the APEX 20K is a multi-decade mature node. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-package drop-in alternatives within the APEX 20K family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
EP20K400GC655-3 - 400K Gate APEX-20KC FPGA 655-BCPGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400GC655-3 is a 400,000-gate APEX-20KC Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) IC integrating 212,992 bits of RAM and 16,640 logic elements in a 655-pin ceramic Pin Grid Array (655-BCPGA, 62.48 x 62.48 mm) package. The device belongs to the APEX-20KC family, the industry's first programmable logic device (PLD) incorporating system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration with MultiCore architecture combining look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks on a 0.22 um process operating from a 1.71 V to 1.89 V supply (2.5 V I/O tolerant). The speed grade -3 denotes the slowest of the three available grades in this family. What is an FPGA? A Field Programmable Gate Array is a programmable logic device that allows engineers to implement custom digital logic circuits after manufacture. FPGAs sit within the broader semiconductor hierarchy of programmable logic -> PLD -> programmable logic IC -> digital IC -> semiconductor. The APEX-20KC family specifically targets SOPC integration, embedding both LUT and product-term logic with on-chip memory, an architecture that bridges traditional CPLDs and high-density FPGAs. Key features of the EP20K400GC655-3 include 212,992 total RAM bits organized in EAB (Embedded Array Block) memory, 16,640 logic elements (LEs), MultiVolt I/O support for interfacing with 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and 5 V systems, and high-bandwidth LVDS capability via the 1.8 V core. The device supports in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG and supports configuration via passive serial, passive parallel synchronous/asynchronous, and active serial modes. Internal pull-up resistors and hot-socketing capability simplify multi-FPGA board designs. The 655-BCPGA pin-grid ceramic package is rated for industrial temperature range -40C to +85C and provides superior thermal and mechanical reliability for demanding applications. CPGA packaging allows inspection of die attach quality, a property valued in military, aerospace, and high-reliability industrial programs. Designers targeting APEX-20KC should use the Quartus II development environment (version 4.2 or later) or legacy Altera MAX+PLUS II for design entry, synthesis, place-and-route, and verification. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, DSP co-processing, high-speed data-path bridges, military secure-communications equipment, and industrial control systems. The combination of 1.8 V low-power core, multi-voltage I/O, embedded memory, and LVDS signaling positions this device at the intersection of high-throughput data acquisition and SOPC integration. When designing with the EP20K400GC655-3, allocate sufficient decoupling across VCCINT and VCCIO rails, provide a clean clock distribution network, and verify the JTAG chain topology. Note that APEX-20KC is a mature, legacy family; new designs should weigh modern Cyclone or Stratix equivalents unless socket-compatible replacement is required.
EP20K400GC655-3V - APEX 20KC FPGA 400K Gates 655-CPGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K400GC655-3V is a high-density APEX 20KC-series Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 16,640 logic elements, 212,992 bits of embedded memory, and 16640 logic cells in a 655-pin Ceramic Pin Grid Array (CPGA / BCPGA) package measuring 62.48 mm x 62.48 mm. Built on a 1.8 V core CMOS process with LVDS I/O support, the device is rated for a maximum clock frequency of 714.2 MHz and a propagation delay of 3.6 ns at speed grade -3V. The MultiCore architecture combines look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded system blocks in a single system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) fabric. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a programmable logic device (PLD) that allows designers to configure digital logic, memory blocks, and I/O via SRAM-based configuration cells. The APEX 20KC series is a programmable logic device family positioned between traditional CPLDs and high-end FPGAs - it is a PLD in the broader semiconductor taxonomy: PLD -> FPGA -> high-density SRAM-based FPGA -> APEX 20KC family. This device family targets system-on-a-programmable-chip integration with on-chip memory and DSP capability. Key features of the EP20K400GC655-3V include 400,000 typical gate count, 496 user I/O pins, embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory implementation, LVDS I/O support, JTAG boundary-scan testing, and a peak reflow temperature of 220 C. The 1.8 V core supply (1.71 V to 1.89 V tolerance) reduces power consumption compared with the older 2.5 V APEX 20K devices. The speed grade -3V indicates a commercial temperature range variant. From an architectural standpoint, the APEX 20KC device combines LUT-based logic for register-intensive functions with product-term logic for fast arithmetic paths, allowing designers to map glue logic and datapath blocks into a single device. The embedded system blocks (ESBs) provide true dual-port RAM, ROM, and FIFO functions. Configuration is SRAM-based, requiring a configuration device such as an EPC configuration PROM for stand-alone operation. Typical applications for the EP20K400GC655-3V include telecommunications infrastructure (ATM switching, SONET framer interfaces), high-speed datapath glue logic, DSP co-processing, industrial control and test equipment, and legacy ASIC prototyping. The high pin count (496 user I/O) makes it suitable for bus-intensive designs such as processor peripherals, memory interfaces, and parallel data acquisition systems. The CPGA package is also well suited to prototyping and military/aerospace-grade designs requiring hermetic packaging. When designing with this device, pay close attention to power sequencing of the 1.8 V core and I/O banks because the SRAM configuration cells require proper power-up sequencing to avoid latch-up. Use the Quartus II or MAX+PLUS II toolchain for synthesis and place-and-route. The 655-pin CPGA footprint requires a through-hole PCB land pattern with adequate via-in-pad or via-farm stitching for signal integrity at high toggle rates. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, APEX 20KC family drop-in alternatives from the Site MPN list, and practical design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet's typical application section.
EP20K400GC655-3X - 400K Gates APEX-20KC FPGA | Intel/Altera
The Intel/Altera (Altera) EP20K400GC655-3X is a high-density member of the APEX-20KC Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) family, integrating 212,992 bits of embedded RAM, 16,640 logic elements, and 400,000 system gates into a single 655-pin ceramic Pin Grid Array (CPGA / BCPGA) package. Manufactured on a 0.22 µm CMOS process and operating from a 1.71 V to 1.89 V core supply, the device delivers up to 167 MHz internal performance with 2.5 V I/O tolerance through its MultiCore architecture combining LUT logic, product-term logic, and embedded system memory blocks. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a reprogrammable semiconductor device that lets engineers implement arbitrary digital logic, DSP, and on-chip memory after PCB fabrication. The APEX-20KC family specifically introduced system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration by merging look-up-table logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory into a unified MultiCore fabric, allowing single-chip implementation of glue logic, register-intensive datapaths, and FIFO/dual-port RAM buffers without external devices. Key differentiating features include 212,992 bits of distributed and embedded memory, 16,640 logic cells, the -3 speed grade targeting 167 MHz internal clock rates, and the -X suffix indicating a ceramic CPGA (CPGA655) package with extended environmental tolerance. The device supports LVDS I/O when paired with the APEX 20KE family datasheet variants, Hot-Socketing for live insertion, and the Quartus/MAX+PLUS II development flow with Boundary-Scan (IEEE 1149.1 JTAG). Architecturally, the EP20K400GC655-3X uses Altera's MultiCore logic array, MegaLAB structures that group 16 Logic Elements (LEs) plus an Embedded System Block (ESB) of 2 Kbits. Product-term logic supports fast arithmetic and state machines, while LUT logic accelerates register-intensive datapaths. The 2.5 V VCCINT core and separate VCCIO banks enable mixed-voltage interfacing with 1.8 V, 2.5 V, and 3.3 V peripherals on the same die. Typical applications include high-throughput telecommunications backplanes, industrial DSP and image-processing pipelines, military and aerospace systems requiring ceramic CPGA packaging, ASIC prototyping platforms, and complex glue-logic replacement in compute and storage systems where 400K gates and 212 Kbit embedded memory can absorb complete sub-systems on one device. When designing with the EP20K400GC655-3X, confirm thermal management for the ceramic CPGA (θJA around 10 °C/W typical for natural convection, exact figure per datasheet) and ensure your tool flow supports the -3 speed grade; Altera Quartus II and MAX+PLUS II are the primary supported toolchains. The -3X package is rated for extended-temperature and MIL-spec-style environments, making it the preferred choice where plastic BGA equivalents are not acceptable. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative listings, and practical design notes that are not aggregated on the manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers evaluate lifecycle status and pick a compatible substitute.
EP20K400GI655-1 - 400K Gate APEX 20K FPGA | Altera | 655-BGA
The Altera EP20K400GI655-1 is a high-density CMOS FPGA from the APEX 20K family, delivering 400,000 typical gates with 16,640 logic elements in a 655-ball Ceramic Pin Grid Array (CPGA-655) package. It offers 502 user I/O lines plus 4 dedicated inputs, a 2.5 ns propagation delay, and in-system programmability via JTAG boundary-scan, all backed by an industrial temperature rating of -40C to +85C. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit whose logic function is defined after manufacturing by the user, rather than at the foundry. FPGAs sit within the programmable logic device (PLD) hierarchy: PLD -> CPLD/FPGA -> SRAM-based/Flash/Antifuse FPGA -> general-purpose/high-speed FPGA. The APEX 20K series pioneered the combination of look-up tables (LUTs) for fine-grained logic with embedded memory blocks (ESBs) and product-term arrays, enabling designers to integrate microcontrollers, memory, and glue logic on a single die. Key features include 16,640 logic elements, 212,992 bits of embedded memory distributed across Embedded System Blocks (ESBs), 4 phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, multi-voltage I/O support, and JTAG-based IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan test. The part is pin-compatible with other APEX 20K400 devices in CPGA-655 footprints (such as EP20K400GC655-1 variants) when migrating across speed grades. Architecturally, the device is built on a 0.18 micrometer CMOS process with four-input LUTs and dedicated high-speed interconnect. The MegaWizard Plug-in Manager for the Altera Quartus II tool suite generates IP cores (UARTs, FIFOs, DSP blocks, memory controllers) that map directly onto the ESB and LUT fabric, achieving densities approaching 400,000 usable gates in the largest members of the family. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards and baseband processing, ASIC prototyping and emulation, industrial control and test equipment, high-speed data acquisition, and military/aerospace systems. The 502 user I/O pins make it attractive for parallel bus bridging and backplane interfacing. When designing with the EP20K400GI655-1, plan carefully for the CPGA-655 ceramic package: it requires a socketed or soldered through-hole footprint, and the junction-to-ambient thermal resistance demands a heatsink at high toggle rates. Always use the Quartus II (legacy) toolchain for bitstream generation since this device predates Intel Quartus Prime device support. This page synthesizes distributor availability, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, with all pricing references stated as of 2026-09-08.
EP20K400GI655-1V - APEX 20K 400K Gate FPGA, 655-pin CBGA | Intel
The Intel EP20K400GI655-1V is a member of the APEX 20K family of programmable logic devices, providing 400,000 typical gates and 16,640 logic elements in a 655-terminal Ceramic Ball Grid Array (CBGA) package. This loadable PLD delivers up to 502 user I/O lines and 4 dedicated inputs, with a 2.5 ns pin-to-pin propagation delay and CMOS process technology. The device is supplied by dual 2.5 V core and 2.5/3.3 V I/O rails, with in-system programmability supported through JTAG boundary scan. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that designers can program after manufacturing to implement custom digital logic. The APEX 20K family combines FPGA fabric with embedded memory and is part of the broader hierarchy: FPGA -> programmable logic device -> logic IC -> semiconductor. The EP20K400GI655-1V occupies the high-density end of this family, targeting designs that require substantial logic capacity, on-chip memory, and high pin count for parallel interfaces. Key features of the EP20K400GI655-1V include 16,640 logic elements, embedded array blocks for memory implementation, a MultiCore architecture combining fine-grain logic with coarse-grain storage, support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and other I/O standards, and JTAG-based IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan test. The device also integrates dedicated clock management circuitry and supports configuration schemes including serial, parallel, and JTAG-based programming. The MultiCore architecture pairs logic elements for combinatorial and sequential functions with embedded system blocks (ESBs) that deliver up to 212 Kbits of RAM per device, suitable for FIFOs, dual-port memory, and content-addressable functions. The architecture allows designers to balance logic density with memory capacity, which is essential in high-performance data-path applications. Typical applications for the EP20K400GI655-1V include telecommunications infrastructure, custom data processing pipelines, DSP front-end designs, and test and measurement instrumentation. Its 400 K gate capacity and 502 I/O lines suit designs with wide parallel buses and high-throughput interfaces. Legacy industrial control and avionics systems also use APEX 20K devices for their deterministic performance and ceramic package reliability. When designing with the EP20K400GI655-1V, ensure adequate decoupling for both 2.5 V and 3.3 V supply rails and follow Intel (formerly Altera) APEX 20K reference design guidelines. Note that this device is now NRND/EOL; designers of new products should consult current Intel/Altera or comparable Cyclone and Stratix families for active production. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, ceramic package details, and same-family drop-in alternatives not found in the manufacturer datasheet, plus application context and design considerations to help engineers evaluate the part for legacy support and replacement scenarios.