FPGA & CPLD
Products (6357)
EP2C50U484C8 - Cyclone II FPGA, 50K LE, 484-FBGA | Intel | Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C50U484C8 is a Cyclone II series Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) featuring 50,528 logic elements (LE), 594,432 bits of embedded RAM, and 294 user I/O pins, all housed in a 484-ball FineLine BGA (UBGA-484) package. The 'U484' suffix denotes the UBGA-484 package, the 'C8' speed grade denotes the 8 ns commercial speed bin, and the 'C' denotes the 0 °C to 85 °C commercial operating temperature range. Built on a 90 nm low-k CMOS process, the Cyclone II family targets cost-sensitive, high-volume applications that previously could not justify FPGA silicon. What is an FPGA? An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device whose digital logic function is defined by the customer after manufacture, rather than at the foundry. FPGAs sit in the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLD) and offer higher density than their CPLD cousins. Cyclone II FPGAs in particular deliver a balanced cost-per-LE, embedded memory blocks, embedded multipliers, and general-purpose I/O in a single chip, making them workhorses for ASIC prototyping, video/display bridging, motor control, and low-cost DSP. Key features of the EP2C50U484C8 include 50,528 logic elements distributed across 3,158 logic array blocks (LABs), 594,432 RAM bits arranged in M4K memory blocks, 86 embedded 18 × 18 multipliers for DSP operations, four phase-locked loops (PLLs), and 294 single-ended (or 132 differential) user I/O pins supporting LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and PCI I/O standards. The device supports configuration via JTAG, Active Serial (AS), Active Parallel (AP), and Passive Serial (PS) modes, and ships in a lead-free 484-ball UBGA package measuring 19 × 19 mm with a 1.0 mm ball pitch. Architecturally, the Cyclone II device uses a four-input look-up table (LUT) as its basic logic element, supplemented by dedicated multiplier blocks that operate independently of the LUT fabric to deliver DSP throughput up to 250 MHz. Four PLLs provide clock synthesis, multiplication, division, and phase shifting for up to 16 clock domains per device. The 90 nm process node keeps core power consumption low relative to earlier-generation FPGAs. Typical applications for the EP2C50U484C8 include industrial machine vision and video processing, motor and motion control, low-cost digital signal processing, ASIC prototyping, protocol bridging (PCI/PCI-X/PCIe soft cores), and educational/hobby platforms where Quartus II design flows are well-supported by community tooling. Design consideration: the 484-ball UBGA package requires careful PCB layout with microvia or via-in-pad technology on standard 4-layer boards; plan your stack-up and via design up front, since the part cannot be hand-reworked. Use Quartus II 13.0sp1 or Web Edition as your synthesis and place-and-route environment. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone — a real advantage over the bare Cyclone II datasheet or a single distributor listing.
EP2C50U484C8N - Cyclone II FPGA, 50K LE, 484-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C50U484C8N is a member of the Cyclone II family of low-cost, high-volume Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) fabricated on a 90 nm low-k dielectric CMOS process, delivered in a 484-ball FineLine BGA (UBGA-484) package. The device integrates 50,528 logic elements, 594,432 bits of embedded RAM organized in M4K blocks, and 294 user I/O pins with 8 input/output banks, providing a balanced logic/memory/IO density for high-volume digital designs. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and embedded memory and multiplier blocks that can be reconfigured by the designer after manufacture. FPGAs sit in the programmable logic hierarchy between general-purpose microcontrollers and ASICs: they offer higher performance and parallelism than MCUs, but lower per-unit cost and shorter time-to-market than full-custom ASICs for low-to-medium volumes. The Cyclone II family targets cost-sensitive applications such as consumer, communications, industrial, and automotive driver assistance. Key features of the EP2C50U484C8N include up to 86 embedded 18x18 multipliers, 4 PLLs, support for external memory interfaces including DDR, DDR2, SDR SDRAM, and QDRII SRAM, and configuration via passive serial, active serial, or JTAG. The -C8 speed grade specifies a commercial temperature range (0C to +85C) with the mid-tier timing closure, and the 'N' suffix denotes lead-free / RoHS-compliant packaging. Architecture-wise, Cyclone II uses 4-input look-up tables (LUT4) per logic element with associated carry and register chains, delivering predictable timing and high logic utilization. The 90 nm process keeps static and dynamic power low versus the previous Cyclone generation, while the embedded M4K memory blocks can be configured in widths from x1 to x36 and depths up to 4 Kbits, supporting true dual-port, simple dual-port, and single-port RAM plus FIFO and shift-register modes. Typical applications include video processing pipelines, industrial control and machine vision, motor control, protocol bridging (UART/SPI/I2C to Ethernet or PCIe soft IP), telecom line cards, and educational / development boards. Designers migrating from ASICs or larger FPGAs frequently select this device for cost-down on proven designs. When designing with this device, pay close attention to power estimation using the Intel PowerPlay Early Power Estimator before final pin assignment, and reserve dedicated clock pins and PLL reference inputs for low-jitter clocking. The 484-FBGA package requires controlled-impedance PCB design with microvia or via-in-pad capability for reliable assembly. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, package-compatible drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, giving engineers a single source for sourcing and selection decisions.
EP2C50U484I8 - Cyclone II FPGA, 50K LEs, 484-FBGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP2C50U484I8 is a Cyclone II family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) built on a 90 nm process node, delivering 50,528 logic elements (LEs), 594,432 bits of embedded RAM, and 294 user I/O pins in a 484-ball FineLine BGA package. The device operates from a 1.2 V core supply with separate VCCIO banks supporting 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, and 3.3 V I/O standards, and features embedded 18x18 multipliers for DSP-style datapaths. The Cyclone II family targets low-cost, high-volume applications and remains one of the most widely deployed Altera FPGA architectures since its 2004 introduction. The 'U' device suffix denotes an unlead-free (non-Pb-free) finish variant, the 'I8' speed grade defines -40 °C to +100 °C industrial operating temperature and the fastest timing closure, and the 484-UBGA package is a 23x23 mm FineLine BGA optimized for high I/O count designs. Unlike modern Cyclone IV/V/10 devices with transceivers and hard memory controllers, the Cyclone II relies on soft logic plus 4 PLLs and 16 global clock networks. This combination - moderate LE count, large RAM, embedded multipliers, and industrial-grade speed - makes the EP2C50U484I8 a strong fit for legacy industrial control, video processing, and communication backplane systems where long-term availability and known-good toolchains (Quartus II 13.0sp1 and earlier) are mandatory. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, design pitfalls, and pinout details not consolidated on any single distributor or manufacturer page. For a complete parametric comparison against same-family Cyclone II variants and pin-compatible Lattice/Xilinx equivalents in the 484-BGA footprint, see the comparison_table, alternatives, and selection_guide sections below.
EP2C50U484I8N - 50K LE Cyclone II FPGA, 484-FBGA | Altera (Intel)
The Altera (Intel) EP2C50U484I8N is a 50,528-logic-element member of the Cyclone II Field Programmable Gate Array family, housed in a 484-ball FineLine BGA (UBGA-484) package and fabricated on a 90 nm TSMC low-k CMOS process. The device integrates 50,528 logic elements, 294 user I/Os, 594,432 bits of embedded RAM organized across M4K blocks, and 86 embedded 18x18 hardware multipliers for DSP workloads, with a core voltage of 1.15 V to 1.25 V and commercial-grade temperature range of -40C to +85C. The 'I8' speed grade and 'N' lead-free package designation confirm industrial temperature compliance. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device whose logic architecture, interconnect, and I/O behavior can be redefined after manufacture by loading a user bitstream into on-chip SRAM configuration memory. Within the broader taxonomy, the EP2C50 belongs to the low-cost, high-volume programmable logic class - sitting below high-performance Stratix devices and above fixed-function ASICs in the cost/flexibility trade-off. Cyclone II specifically targets cost-sensitive, high-volume applications where designers need hundreds of thousands of system gates, embedded multipliers, and external memory interfaces without the premium of transceivers or high-speed SERDES. Key features include 4 PLLs for clock management, support for external memory interfaces including DDR, DDR2, and QDRII SRAM, 16 global clock networks, and a configuration scheme supporting passive serial, active serial, and JTAG programming. The 484-FBGA package provides a compact 19 mm x 19 mm footprint with 1.0 mm ball pitch, suitable for cost-constrained multilayer PCBs in volume production. The Cyclone II architecture combines adaptive logic modules (ALMs) with a predictable routing fabric, allowing Quartus II synthesis to deliver consistent timing closure. Embedded M4K RAM blocks support single- and dual-port operation up to 250 MHz, while the 18x18 multipliers enable DSP pipelines such as FFTs, FIR filters, and video processing without external DSP chips. Typical applications span industrial motor control, video surveillance, automotive infotainment pre-processing, low-cost software-defined radio front-ends, and educational/prototyping platforms where large logic capacity and abundant multipliers are needed at minimal unit cost. When designing with this device, carefully review the I/O bank supply rules in the Cyclone II handbook - mixing 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, and 3.3 V interfaces requires proper VREF and bank voltage planning, and the 484-FBGA land pattern demands PCB fabrication with microvia or via-in-pad capability for reliable assembly. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in package alternatives, and practical design considerations not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet.
EP2C5AF256A7N - Cyclone II FPGA, 4608 LE, 256-FBGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C5AF256A7N is a low-cost Cyclone II field-programmable gate array (FPGA) featuring 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 RAM bits, and 158 user I/Os, housed in a 256-pin FineLine BGA (FBGA) package. It is fabricated on a 90nm process node with a 1.2V core supply and supports operation up to 402.58 MHz internal logic, making it a workhorse for cost-sensitive digital designs. The "A7N" suffix indicates an automotive temperature grade (AEC-Q100 qualified), industrial operating range, and lead-free package. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be reconfigured by the customer after manufacture to implement arbitrary digital logic. FPGAs belong to the programmable logic device (PLD) hierarchy, sitting alongside CPLDs and structured ASICs as flexible logic alternatives to fixed-function ASICs. Cyclone II FPGAs target high-volume, cost-sensitive applications where designers need hardware parallelism without the NRE cost of an ASIC. They integrate logic, embedded multipliers (18x18), embedded memory blocks (M4K RAM), and PLL clock management on a single die, enabling complete digital systems on one chip. Key features of the EP2C5AF256A7N include 4,608 logic elements organized into 288 logic array blocks (LABs), 13 embedded 18x18 multipliers, 26 M4K RAM blocks providing 119,808 RAM bits, two PLLs, and 158 maximum user I/Os. The device supports LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and PCI I/O standards, plus 66 MHz 32-bit PCI compliance. Configuration is handled through Altera's serial or parallel configuration schemes using JTAG or active/passive serial modes. Typical applications span industrial motor control, automotive infotainment and driver-assistance subsystems, video processing pipelines, software-defined radio front-ends, embedded control, and digital signal processing pre-processing. The Cyclone II architecture is supported by the Quartus II design software (legacy) and remains popular for legacy maintenance and cost-driven new designs in mature product lines. Designers should plan thermal dissipation carefully - the FBGA package requires proper PCB thermal via arrays under the exposed pad. For automotive applications, the AEC-Q100 qualification enables deployment in cabin electronics, instrument clusters, and body controllers. JTAG programming via the Altera USB-Blaster or compatible download cable is required for in-system configuration. Consider migrating to Cyclone IV E (EP4CE6) for new designs where supply longevity matters.
EP2C5AF256I8N - 4,608 LEs Cyclone II FPGA, 158 I/O, 256-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C5AF256I8N is a low-cost Cyclone II Field Programmable Gate Array built on a 90 nm process, delivering 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 RAM bits, and 158 user I/O pins in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA) package. The device operates at a 1.2 V core supply and supports maximum toggle performance up to 402.5 MHz, making it a workhorse for cost-sensitive volume FPGA applications. Industrial-grade temperature range (-40 °C to +85 °C) is indicated by the 'I8' speed-grade suffix, with N denoting lead-free / RoHS compliance. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory, multipliers/DSP blocks, and programmable I/O, all stitched together by a programmable interconnect fabric. FPGAs belong to the broader class of programmable logic devices (PLDs) within the digital IC hierarchy (programmable logic -> logic IC -> integrated circuit). Unlike ASICs, FPGAs ship uncommitted and are configured in the field via a hardware description language (HDL) bitstream. Cyclone II sits in the low-power, low-cost segment of Intel's FPGA lineup, ideal when deterministic parallel logic, on-chip RAM, and DSP throughput are needed without the cost of a high-end transceiver-rich device. Key features include 13 embedded 18x18 multipliers supporting up to ~25 GMACS DSP throughput, 4 PLLs for clock management, 117 Kbits of M4K block RAM organized as 4,608 bits per block, and True-LVDS differential I/O support on every I/O bank. The 90 nm process and 1.2 V core keep dynamic power low versus older 130 nm Cyclone parts, while JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) and active serial configuration interfaces support standard in-system programming flows. Typical applications include digital signal processing front-ends, motor control, video processing pipelines, industrial communication protocol bridges (UART/SPI/I2C to Ethernet), and low-cost video/imaging capture. The 256-FBGA footprint (17 mm body) balances I/O density with PCB manufacturability and is well supported by Quartus II design tools. As one of Intel's most widely adopted low-cost FPGAs, the EP2C5A remains a preferred choice for legacy designs and cost-down re-spins where the EP4C or Cyclone V families are unnecessary. Design considerations: choose the EP2C5A when logic density under 5K LEs and DSP throughput under ~30 GMACS suffices; step up to Cyclone IV E (EP4CE) for higher RAM/multiplier counts or to Cyclone V for transceivers. Plan configuration mode (AS, PS, JTAG) early because the 256-FBGA pinout differs across modes. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
EP2C5AT144A7N - Cyclone II FPGA 4.6K LEs 89 I/O 144-LQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C5AT144A7N is a low-cost Cyclone II family Field Programmable Gate Array delivering 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 bits of embedded RAM, and 89 user I/O pins in a 144-pin LQFP (TQFP) package. Fabricated on a 90 nm low-k process with a 1.2 V core, the device is targeted at cost-sensitive high-volume applications such as automotive, industrial control, and consumer electronics. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a reprogrammable semiconductor device that lets designers implement custom digital logic, memory, and DSP functions after PCB fabrication. FPGAs sit in the programmable-logic hierarchy between rigid ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) and software-driven microcontrollers: ASICs offer the highest density and efficiency but cannot be modified post-tapeout, while microcontrollers execute code from a fixed core. FPGAs therefore fill the gap for prototyping, low-volume production, and designs requiring parallel hardware acceleration. Key features include 4,608 logic elements arranged in a fine-grained architecture, 119,808 bits of embedded RAM (M4K blocks), up to 13 embedded multipliers (18x18), and 2 PLLs for clock management. The Cyclone II device family supports common I/O standards including LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and SSTL, and provides flexible configuration via JTAG, passive serial, or Altera enhanced configuration devices. 89 user I/Os accommodate a wide range of peripheral and bus interfaces without external transceivers. The EP2C5A variant is qualified to the AEC-Q100 automotive standard and operates across the -40C to +125C automotive temperature range, distinguishing it from the EP2C5 commercial-temperature parts. The 90 nm CMOS process with 1.2 V core delivers a favorable performance-per-watt ratio, and the 144-LQFP package enables low-cost PCB assembly on conventional SMT lines. Internal signal integrity is preserved through a dedicated clock network and structured routing architecture. Typical applications include automotive infotainment systems, body electronics, industrial control and monitoring, low-cost video processing, consumer device display controllers, and digital signal processing front-ends. Developers pair the Cyclone II with tools like the Altera/Intel Quartus II design suite for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing closure. When designing with this device, reserve at least 4 configuration pins, ensure the JTAG chain is properly terminated, and follow Altera's recommended decoupling scheme (typically one 0.1 uF and one 10 uF cap per power rail). Automotive deployments should consult the AN 539 application note for EMI/EMC mitigation in AEC-Q100 environments. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, AEC-Q100 automotive-grade details, drop-in alternative FPGAs, and practical design guidance not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet.
EP2C5F256C6 - Cyclone II FPGA, 4,608 LEs, 158 I/O | Intel
The Intel EP2C5F256C6 is a member of the Cyclone II family of field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) fabricated on a 90 nm low-k dielectric CMOS process, delivering 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 bits of embedded RAM, and 158 user I/O in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package with commercial 0°C to 85°C temperature grade. The Cyclone II architecture pairs look-up-table (LUT)-based logic with embedded M4K memory blocks (total of 26 blocks, each 4,096 bits) and dedicated 18×18 hardware multipliers (13 total) so that common DSP, glue-logic and control-plane tasks can be implemented without external multipliers or SRAM. A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that contains an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells. Architecturally FPGAs sit below custom ASICs in NRE cost and time-to-market but above microcontrollers in raw parallelism, making them a preferred choice for prototyping, low-volume production, and high-throughput data-path designs. Cyclone II specifically targets cost-sensitive applications by stripping out transceivers and dedicated hard IP cores (no embedded processors, no high-speed SERDES), trading absolute performance for very low unit cost and Quartus II design-flow compatibility. Key device-level features include 4,608 logic elements arranged as 4-input LUTs, 119,808 bits of user-accessible RAM (typically partitioned into 26 M4K blocks of 4 kbit each), two embedded PLL blocks for clock multiplication and phase shifting, and 158 user I/O supporting LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and differential I/O standards. The package is a 256-pin FineLine BGA (1.0 mm pitch), with the die designated 'F256' and the speed grade 'C6'. Configuration is supported via active serial (AS), passive serial (PS), and JTAG modes. Typical applications include video processing bridges, industrial motor control and encoder interfaces, low-cost communications line cards, prototype ASIC emulation, USB / video / image consumer peripherals, and glue-logic consolidation on multi-board systems. The combination of 13 hardware multipliers and 26 M4K blocks is well-matched to FIR filters, PID control loops and small FFT pipelines. When designing with this device, plan for a Quartus II design flow and verify the 0°C to 85°C commercial temperature window against your end-product environment; if industrial -40°C to 100°C operation is required, use the 'I' grade variant instead. The 1.0 mm BGA pitch also demands PCB fabrication with microvia or HDI stack-up to escape the inner balls cleanly. This page combines manufacturer specifications, current distributor stock and pricing tiers, and drop-in compatible alternative FPGAs in the same 256-ball BGA - information not assembled in any single source including the official Cyclone II datasheet.
EP2C5F256C6N - 4,608 LEs Cyclone II FPGA 256-FBGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C5F256C6N is a low-cost Cyclone II FPGA with 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 bits of embedded RAM (M4K blocks), 158 user I/Os, and 2 PLLs, packaged in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA). Built on a 90 nm process, it operates at a core voltage of 1.2 V and supports commercial temperature ranges, providing a cost-optimized programmable-logic platform for high-volume designs. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and dedicated hardened blocks such as block RAM, multipliers, and PLLs. FPGAs sit in the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) under digital logic ICs, enabling parallel hardware execution that microcontrollers and DSPs cannot match. Cyclone II was Altera's second-generation low-cost family, extending FPGA density up to 68,416 LEs in the family ceiling while keeping unit cost low enough for consumer and industrial volume. Key features of the EP2C5F256C6N include 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 embedded RAM bits (M4K) organized into 26 blocks of 4,608 bits each, two general-purpose PLLs, 158 maximum user I/Os, and a 1.2 V core supply with hot-socketing support. The 256-pin FineLine BGA package measures 17 mm × 17 mm with a 1.0 mm ball pitch, balancing board routability against compact PCB area. Architecturally, Cyclone II uses a 90 nm CMOS process, an SRAM-based configuration cell (volatile, requiring a configuration flash or EPCS device at boot), and embedded M4K memory blocks supporting true dual-port and single-port modes at up to 250 MHz. The device is configured via JTAG or Active Serial using the EPCS series configuration devices. Performance typically reaches 150 MHz internal logic operation, with internal multipliers absent on this density (Cyclone II multipliers start on the EP2C20 and larger). Typical applications include industrial motor control and factory automation, video processing and image-pipeline front ends, consumer electronics requiring custom glue logic, telecommunications line-card glue logic, educational FPGA development boards, and low-cost prototyping platforms. Designers choose the EP2C5F256C6N when they need a low-density, low-cost FPGA with enough I/O to interface to memory buses and parallel peripherals. When designing with this FPGA, plan the configuration memory (an EPCS1/EPCS4 serial flash is recommended) and verify the I/O bank voltage compatibility (LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, HSTL on most banks). The 1.2 V core requires a stable regulator; consider decoupling bulk and ceramic caps within 100 mils of each VCC/VCCINT ball per Altera's cyclone II handbook layout guide. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-package Cyclone II alternatives, and practical Quartus II configuration notes that the manufacturer datasheet alone does not surface.
EP2C5F256C7 - Cyclone II FPGA, 4.6K LEs, 256-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP2C5F256C7 is a low-cost, low-power Cyclone II Field Programmable Gate Array delivering 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 RAM bits, and 158 user I/O in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package at speed grade 7 and commercial temperature grade (0C to 85C). Built on a 90nm TSMC process, it operates from a 1.15 V to 1.25 V core supply and includes 13 embedded 18x18 multipliers and two PLLs for clock management. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device containing programmable logic blocks, configurable interconnects, and programmable I/O that engineers can reconfigure after manufacture to implement custom digital logic, glue logic, or full processor cores. FPGAs sit in the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) -> FPGAs -> low-cost SRAM-based FPGAs -> Cyclone II family, and they are widely used as flexible alternatives to ASICs and microcontrollers for parallel processing, high-speed interfacing, and digital signal processing. Key features of the EP2C5F256C7 include 4,608 logic elements organized into 288 logic array blocks (LABs), 119,808 bits of embedded SRAM distributed across M4K memory blocks, 158 maximum user I/O pins supporting LVDS, LVTTL, PCI, and other single-ended and differential I/O standards, and 13 dedicated 18x18 hardware multipliers that deliver up to approximately 35 GMACs of DSP throughput at 250 MHz. Two PLLs provide zero-delay clock buffering, frequency synthesis, and phase shifting for system clock trees. The architecture is built around 4-input look-up tables (LUTs) feeding into per-LAB carry chains and register chains, with MultiTrack interconnect minimizing routing congestion. The 90nm process keeps typical static current around 35 mA and dynamic power scales with toggle rate, allowing designers to take advantage of Cyclone II's power-aware compiler to gate unused logic and reduce dissipation. Typical applications include industrial motor control and PLC interface boards, video processing pipelines, automotive infotainment prototyping, low-cost software-defined radio front-end signal conditioning, and education/DSP development kits. The 158 I/O also make it a strong fit for parallel bus bridging between legacy microcontrollers and high-speed peripherals. When designing with this part, allocate at least 8 layers in the PCB stack-up for the 256-FBGA breakout, follow Altera's recommended decoupling scheme (100 nF plus 10 uF bulk at each VCCINT/VCCIO region), and use the Quartus II design software for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing closure. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, verified same-brand drop-in alternatives from the Cyclone II family, and practical design notes not aggregated in any single manufacturer datasheet.
EP2C5F256C7N - Cyclone II FPGA 4,608 LEs 158 I/O FBGA-256 | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C5F256C7N is a low-cost Cyclone II Field-Programmable Gate Array delivering 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 bits of embedded RAM, and 158 user I/O pins in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package at commercial 0C to +85C temperature grade with -7 speed grade. Built on a 90 nm low-k dielectric CMOS process, the device integrates 13 embedded 18x18 multipliers and a PLL clock network for low-cost DSP and glue-logic applications. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that designers can reconfigure after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital logic, DSP pipelines, or glue logic. FPGAs occupy a tier in the programmable-logic hierarchy between CPLDs (smaller, non-volatile, deterministic timing) and ASICs (largest, lowest unit cost, fixed function); the Cyclone II family specifically targets the low-cost edge of that hierarchy, competing with mid-range microcontrollers and ASSPs on price while delivering hardware-level parallelism. Key features of the EP2C5F256C7N include 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 RAM bits (organized as M4K memory blocks), up to 158 user I/O pins, two PLLs supporting 16 global clock networks, and JTAG-based configuration via the standard Active Serial (AS), Passive Serial (PS), and JTAG modes. The 90 nm process delivers low static and dynamic power, and the device supports hot-socketing and PCI Express hard IP PIPE compatibility for endpoint applications. The Cyclone II architecture uses 4-input look-up tables (LUT4) per logic element, true dual-port M4K memory blocks, and dedicated multiplier blocks capable of 18x18 signed multiplication. The PLL macro supports clock multiplication, division, phase shift, and external feedback for precise system-level clock management. The 256-ball FBGA package provides 158 usable I/O across 8 I/O banks, allowing flexible voltage and clock domain partitioning. Typical applications include industrial motor control, video processing bridges, low-cost DSP front-ends, I/O expansion and protocol bridging, consumer display controllers, and educational/hobbyist development. The combination of low unit cost, mature Quartus II toolchain support, and 158 I/O makes the EP2C5F256C7N a common choice for legacy and cost-sensitive designs. When designing with this device, plan for a 1.2V core supply plus one or more bank I/O supplies (1.5V, 1.8V, 2.5V, or 3.3V). Decoupling must include 0.1 uF and bulk capacitors on every VCC pin, and JTAG chain length must be analyzed if multiple devices are configured in series. Configuration data should be stored in a serial configuration device (EPCS) for standalone boot. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-family and cross-brand drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
EP2C5F256C8 - Cyclone II FPGA 4,608 LEs 256-BGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP2C5F256C8 is a low-cost Cyclone II family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) built on a 90 nm process, delivering 4,608 logic elements (LEs), 119,808 RAM bits, and 158 user I/O pins in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA-256) package. Operating at a core voltage of 1.2 V with a maximum clock rate of approximately 320 MHz, it targets cost-sensitive, high-volume digital logic designs that need programmable glue logic, parallel processing, and modest DSP throughput. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory, I/O cells, and routing interconnects that engineers can program after manufacture using a hardware description language (HDL) such as Verilog or VHDL. FPGAs sit in the programmable logic hierarchy between fixed-function ASICs (high NRE, low unit cost at volume) and microcontrollers (sequential, software-driven). The Cyclone II series specifically targets the low-cost end of the FPGA market, replacing discrete logic ICs and offering more flexibility than CPLDs at price points that approach mid-range microcontrollers. Key features of the EP2C5F256C8 include 4,608 LEs, 119,808 embedded RAM bits organized into M4K memory blocks, 13 embedded 18x18 multipliers for moderate DSP workloads, and four phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management. The device supports LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL-2, and SSTL-18 I/O standards with hot-socketing capability, enabling safe insertion into a powered backplane. Configuration can be loaded from a passive serial (PS) flash, JTAG, or Altera EPCS configuration device. Architecture-wise, the Cyclone II family uses a 90 nm low-k dielectric process and an SRAM-based configuration cell (volatile configuration that must be loaded at every power-up). Logic elements contain a 4-input look-up table (LUT), a programmable register, a carry chain for fast arithmetic, and a dedicated register chain. The MultiTrack interconnect fabric delivers predictable timing closure, and the LAB (Logic Array Block) groups 16 LEs for efficient local routing. Typical applications include industrial motor control, video processing pipelines, low-end software-defined radio (SDR) front ends, education and development kits, communications bridge logic, and consumer electronics glue logic. The 158 user I/O count also makes it suitable for legacy parallel-bus interfacing in factory automation equipment. When designing with the EP2C5F256C8, ensure the Quartus II design tool targets a 'C8' speed grade device and select the FBGA-256 package option. Power supply decoupling requires multiple 0.1 µF and 10 µF ceramic capacitors near each VCCINT and VCCIO pin. The configuration scheme (AS, PS, JTAG) must be selected via MSEL pins at board reset. This page synthesizes Intel / Altera datasheet specs, distributor stock and pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives from the Cyclone II family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP2C5F256C8N - Cyclone II FPGA, 4.6K LEs, 158 I/O | Altera / Intel
The Altera (now Intel) EP2C5F256C8N is a Cyclone II family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 bits of embedded RAM, and 158 user I/O pins in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package. It is fabricated on a 1.2 V core, 90 nm low-k process and is speed grade -8 (commercial). A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) in the broader semiconductor integrated circuit hierarchy (FPGA -> programmable logic -> logic IC -> integrated circuit). FPGAs differ from fixed-function ASICs because their logic fabric, routing, and I/O behavior are configured by the user after manufacture via a hardware description language (HDL) bitstream. The Cyclone II family targets cost-sensitive, low-power applications such as digital signal processing bridging, I/O expansion, and glue-logic replacement. Key features include 4,608 LEs arranged in 288 logic array blocks (LABs), 119,808 bits (approximately 14.6 Kbytes) of M4K embedded memory blocks, 13 embedded 18x18 multipliers, two PLLs for clock management, and 158 maximum user I/O pins. The device supports LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and LVDS I/O standards with hot-socket insertion capability, enabling robust board-level design. The Cyclone II architecture pairs a four-input look-up table (LUT) LE with efficient carry chains for arithmetic, dedicated memory blocks for FIFO and buffer use, and DSP blocks for multiply-accumulate operations. Configuration is stored in SRAM and loaded from a serial or parallel flash via Altera/Intel Quartus design software, supporting JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) and passive serial modes. Typical applications include industrial motor control, video processing bridges, communication protocol bridging (UART, SPI, I2C, PCIe endpoint soft IP), low-cost DSP front-ends, and embedded display controllers. The 256-ball FineLine BGA also supports designs migrating from legacy Altera Cyclone and Cyclone II designs where pin-compatible higher-density variants are required. When designing with this device, ensure the 1.2 V core rail is decoupled with multiple low-ESR capacitors close to the package and that the JTAG chain is accessible for in-system programming. Heat dissipation is modest due to the 90 nm process, but designers should still respect the JEDEC JESD51 thermal recommendations. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in compatible pin-compatible alternatives from the same Cyclone II family, and practical design considerations not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet.
EP2C5F256I8 - Cyclone II FPGA, 4,608 Logic Elements, 256-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C5F256I8 is a member of the low-cost Cyclone® II FPGA family, offering 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 RAM bits, and 158 user I/O pins in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA-256) package. Built on a 1.2V core, 90nm CMOS process, the device targets high-volume, cost-sensitive applications including industrial control, video processing, and communications infrastructure. The 'I8' speed grade denotes an industrial-temperature, 8 ns pin-to-pin delay timing bin suitable for -40 °C to +100 °C operation. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor IC whose digital logic function is defined by a customer-supplied configuration bitstream rather than by mask-level fabrication. The FPGA hierarchy is: FPGA → programmable logic device → logic IC → integrated circuit → semiconductor. FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs and software-programmable processors, combining hardware parallelism with design-time reconfigurability. Cyclone II specifically is positioned as the low-power, low-cost node below Altera's mid-range Stratix II, replacing the original Cyclone (Cyclone I) family with roughly three times the density. Key features include 4,608 logic elements organized into 288 configurable logic blocks (CLBs), 250 kbit of embedded RAM in the form of M4K blocks (totaling 119,808 RAM bits), up to 158 maximum user I/O pins, embedded 18×18 multipliers for DSP, and a 4-phase PLL clock network per device. Configuration is supported via active serial (AS), passive serial (PS), fast passive parallel (FPP), or JTAG modes, allowing flexible boot from EPCS configuration memories. The 'I8' bin keeps maximum core clock and I/O toggle rates adequate for general-purpose glue logic and basic DSP. The Cyclone II architecture uses a 4-input LUT-based logic element with embedded carry chains and a shared arithmetic mode, plus dedicated hardware multipliers and M4K memory blocks that can be configured as true dual-port, simple dual-port, or single-port RAM/ROM with parity/byte-enable support. Up to four PLLs per device provide clock synthesis, multiplication, division, and phase shifting, which simplifies board-level clock tree design and reduces external oscillator count. Typical applications include industrial machine vision and motor control, low-cost video bridging and display controllers, USB/Ethernet protocol bridging, education/development kits, and ASIC prototyping for mid-complexity designs. The wide Quartus II toolchain support (now continued in Intel Quartus Prime) makes it suitable for both legacy maintenance and new low-volume designs requiring field-upgradable logic. When designing with the EP2C5F256I8, plan power sequencing: 1.2V VCCINT must ramp before or simultaneously with 2.5V/3.3V VCCIO to avoid I/O latch-up, and the JTAG chain should be isolated if unused. For high-speed DDR or LVDS interfaces, follow Altera's recommended decoupling (100 nF + 10 µF per bank) and matched-length routing to the dedicated DQS pins documented in the Cyclone II Device Handbook. This page combines distributor pricing, parametric data from the manufacturer datasheet, and curated drop-in alternatives to give engineers a single reference for both new designs and lifecycle extension of legacy Cyclone II boards.
EP2C5F256I8N - Cyclone II FPGA, 4,608 LEs, 256-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C5F256I8N is a Cyclone II Field Programmable Gate Array housed in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package, offering 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 bits of embedded memory, and 158 maximum user I/O pins. Built on a 90 nm low-power process, the Cyclone II family extends the original Cyclone architecture with up to 68,416 LEs, embedded multipliers, and up to 1.1 Mbit of RAM while retaining a cost-optimized positioning. The 'I8' suffix indicates the industrial temperature grade (-40C to +85C) and an 8 ns pin-to-pin timing, and the 'N' suffix indicates lead-free / Pb-free termination. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a reprogrammable semiconductor device containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable routing, and dedicated hard-IP such as block RAM, PLLs, and (in modern families) transceivers. FPGAs sit between discrete logic ICs (74-series glue logic) and application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs): unlike discrete logic, they integrate thousands to millions of gates onto one die, and unlike ASICs they are reprogrammable, allowing iterative development and late-stage design changes. FPGAs are widely used for glue logic, custom interfacing, DSP pipelines, prototyping of ASIC designs, and high-speed I/O expansion. Key features of the EP2C5F256I8N include 4,608 LEs, 13 embedded 18x18 multipliers, two PLLs, 158 user I/O pins distributed across eight I/O banks, and 119,808 bits of M4K block RAM organized as 4-Kbit blocks. The device supports LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and HSTL I/O standards, and supports external memory interfaces including DDR, DDR2, SDR, and QDR SRAM. Configuration is handled through active serial (AS), passive serial (PS), JTAG, or Fast Passive Parallel (FPP) modes. The 256-ball 1.0 mm pitch FBGA package is JEDEC-compliant and supports lead-free reflow. Architecture details: the Cyclone II logic element (LE) is built around a 4-input look-up table (LUT) with a programmable register, supporting both arithmetic and carry-chain modes for efficient adder and counter implementation. The 90 nm process node allows the EP2C5 to deliver this logic capacity at sub-watt static power while supporting clock management through dedicated PLL blocks with up to four output clocks each. Configuration bitstream is stored in external serial flash and loaded into SRAM configuration cells at power-up. Typical applications include digital signal processing front-ends, motor control and industrial automation, video processing and display controllers, communications protocol bridging (UART, SPI, I2C, PCIe soft IP), and ASIC prototyping. The combination of low cost, embedded multipliers, and DDR memory interfaces makes Cyclone II especially attractive for cost-sensitive, volume-production designs. When designing with this device, plan I/O bank assignments carefully because VCCIO must be supplied per bank and mixed-voltage standards require careful reference voltage selection. Use Quartus II design software (versions 13.0 SP1 and earlier, or the ModelSim-Intel starter edition) for synthesis and place-and-route; modern Quartus Prime does not include Cyclone II support. Configuration storage (EPCS serial flash) is mandatory at production.
EP2C5Q208C7 - Cyclone II FPGA, 142 I/O, 208QFP | Intel
The Intel EP2C5Q208C7 is a Cyclone II field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 total RAM bits, and 142 user I/O pins, supplied in a 208-pin BFQFP (plastic quad flat pack, square body) package. It is designed for low-cost, high-volume logic applications and operates from a 1.2 V core supply with a commercial temperature range of 0°C to +85°C. An FPGA is a programmable logic device whose internal logic blocks, routing resources, and I/O behavior are configured after manufacturing. Unlike a fixed-function ASIC or a sequential microcontroller, an FPGA lets engineers implement parallel datapaths, custom interfaces, and state machines in hardware. FPGAs fit in the programmable logic device segment of the semiconductor hierarchy and are commonly used when a design needs field reconfigurability, parallel processing, or a large number of fast I/O signals without committing to custom silicon. According to the DigiKey product listing, the EP2C5Q208C7 is categorized as a Cyclone II FPGA IC with 142 user I/O, 119,808 RAM bits, and 4,608 logic elements in a 208-BFQFP package. The core supply voltage is 1.2 V, and the logic family is CMOS. The 208-pin plastic quad flat pack provides a gull-wing, surface-mount footprint that is more convenient for prototype assembly and rework than a fine-pitch BGA, while still supporting a substantial number of parallel board-level signals. Cyclone II was Altera's low-cost 90 nm CMOS FPGA family, designed to balance density, I/O count, and unit price for industrial and consumer systems. The device uses SRAM-based configuration, which means it must be loaded from an external configuration source at power-up. The 4,608 logic elements in this part are suitable for moderate-size control logic, bus bridging, sensor preprocessing, video timing, and other functions that fit comfortably in a small FPGA without requiring external logic ICs. The EP2C5Q208C7 is used in applications such as industrial motor-control signal processing, fieldbus protocol bridging, test and measurement data acquisition, low-cost display timing, audio effects, and custom I/O expansion. The 142 user I/O pins allow designers to connect multiple parallel ADCs, DACs, memory buses, or general-purpose transceivers. The commercial temperature version covers typical indoor equipment from 0°C to +85°C, and the low-cost QFP body makes board assembly straightforward with standard reflow processes. A key design consideration is that this is a 1.2 V core FPGA, so the board must provide a clean 1.2 V rail with sufficient decoupling and current capability. The configuration source must also be selected early in the design because Cyclone II is volatile and must be configured from a serial configuration device, a host processor, or a JTAG download cable after every power-up. This page synthesizes distributor availability, same-family drop-in variants, and practical design notes not found in a single datasheet listing, helping engineers compare procurement options and select the correct Cyclone II QFP-208 variant for their project.
EP2C5Q208C7N - Cyclone II FPGA, 142 I/O | Altera
The Altera EP2C5Q208C7N is a Cyclone II field-programmable gate array (FPGA) containing 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 bits of embedded RAM, and 142 user I/O pins, housed in a 208-pin BFQFP/PQFP-208 package. It is manufactured on a 90 nm CMOS process with a 1.2 V core supply and is intended for cost-sensitive, high-volume applications that require moderate logic density and predictable timing. A field-programmable gate array is an integrated circuit whose digital logic functions can be configured after fabrication using a hardware description language such as Verilog or VHDL. Unlike a microcontroller, an FPGA implements parallel hardware paths, so control, protocol, and DSP functions can operate simultaneously. In the programmable logic hierarchy, an FPGA belongs to the larger programmable logic device family and is one of the most flexible digital building blocks available, often replacing discrete 74-series logic, CPLDs, ASIC prototypes, and custom state machines. The EP2C5Q208C7N provides several important features for embedded and industrial designs. Its 4,608 logic elements are enough for multi-channel control state machines, bus-interface glue logic, and small image-processing pipelines. The 119,808 bits of embedded RAM support FIFOs, small line buffers, and register-file structures, while the 142 user I/O pins allow direct connection to many ADCs, DACs, sensors, and parallel buses. Datasheets.com lists a maximum internal clock frequency of 402.58 MHz for the device, and the C7 speed grade provides additional timing margin over C8 versions. Altera designed the Cyclone II family to balance performance, density, and cost. The EP2C5 is the smallest mainstream Cyclone II device, offering a practical migration path into higher-density EP2C8, EP2C20, and EP2C35 parts if a design outgrows the available logic and RAM. The 1.2 V core reduces dynamic power compared with earlier 1.5 V or 2.5 V FPGA families, and the commercial 0°C to 85°C operating temperature range covers most indoor and industrial equipment. The 208-pin QFP package provides a convenient board-level footprint without the high layer-count requirements of a fine-pitch BGA. Typical applications include industrial motor-control interfaces, display timing control, protocol bridging between serial and parallel standards, data-acquisition sequencing, and custom glue logic. In each case, the FPGA's parallel execution and deterministic timing improve system responsiveness over software-only alternatives. The embedded PLL and clock-routing resources let designers synthesize several internal clock domains from one external oscillator. When using EP2C5Q208C7N, remember that an FPGA is volatile: configuration data must be loaded from an external EPCS, EPCQ, or JTAG source after power-up. Connect the dedicated MSEL pins to select the intended configuration mode, and provide clean 1.2 V core power with adequate decoupling. The device has no internal flash for permanent program storage, so a configuration memory device should be treated as part of the bill of materials. This page synthesizes distributor inventory, price snapshots, same-family QFP-208 drop-in alternatives, and practical design guidance that are gathered for the EP2C5Q208C7N and are useful for engineers evaluating new or replacement FPGA designs.
EP2C5Q208C8 - Cyclone II FPGA 4608 LE | Intel
EP2C5Q208C8 is an Intel Cyclone II field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 4608 logic elements, 119808 total RAM bits, and 142 user I/O pins, housed in a 208-pin BFQFP/PQFP surface-mount package. It belongs to the Cyclone II family originally introduced by Altera and now supported by Intel, and it is fabricated on a 90 nm process with a 1.2 V core supply. A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device containing configurable logic blocks and programmable interconnects that can be reconfigured after manufacturing. In the programmable-logic hierarchy, an FPGA is a type of programmable logic device (PLD), which belongs to the broader category of logic integrated circuits. Unlike a fixed-function ASIC, the EP2C5Q208C8 can implement arbitrary digital logic, from simple state machines to complete processor peripherals, by loading a configuration bitstream at power-up. Key features include 4608 logic elements for combinatorial and sequential logic, 119808 bits of embedded RAM for FIFOs and data buffering, and 142 user I/O pins for connection to multiple logic and interface domains. The C8 speed grade and commercial temperature suffix provide a cost-oriented entry point into the Cyclone II family. The 208-pin BFQFP/PQFP package has accessible perimeter leads, which simplifies PCB layout, soldering inspection, and rework compared with fine-pitch BGA alternatives. Cyclone II architecture is a medium-density FPGA with embedded memory blocks and programmable I/O buffers. The EP2C5Q208C8 can implement soft-core processors, parallel signal-processing datapaths, bus bridges, and controller logic. Its 90 nm process helps balance die cost and power with moderate performance. The 402.58 MHz figure quoted by FPGAkey represents an upper internal clock boundary for speed-grade -8 devices; actual achievable frequency depends on design complexity, synthesis settings, routing, and operating conditions. Typical applications include low-cost motor-control interfaces, sensor aggregation, protocol bridging, video/display processing, and test instrumentation bring-up. The available I/O count allows parallel buses such as 8-bit or 16-bit microcontroller interfaces and multiple encoder inputs to be connected directly. With 119808 RAM bits, internal FIFOs and small frame buffers can be implemented without external memory for many designs. Designers using EP2C5Q208C8 should provide a clean 1.2 V core rail with appropriate decoupling, follow the Intel/Altera power estimation flow in Quartus, and use a supported configuration scheme such as active serial with an EPCS configuration device. Because this -C8 variant is listed as RoHS non-compliant by a distributor, select an N-suffix device for Pb-free assembly or verify an applicable exemption. This page synthesizes verified distributor inventory, current price references, drop-in QFP alternatives, and practical design guidance beyond the manufacturer datasheet, making it useful for legacy maintenance, lifecycle planning, and finding a direct replacement for EP2C5Q208C8.
EP2C5Q208C8N - Cyclone II FPGA 4,608 LEs 208-PQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C5Q208C8N is a Cyclone II series Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 bits of embedded RAM, and 142 user I/O pins in a 208-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP / 208-BFQFP) package, speed grade 8, commercial temperature range. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a reprogrammable semiconductor device containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable routing, and embedded memory and DSP resources. FPGAs sit at the top of the digital logic hierarchy alongside ASICs and microcontrollers, but unlike ASICs they can be reconfigured in-circuit to implement arbitrary digital functions, glue logic, state machines, signal processing pipelines, and full soft-processor systems. The Cyclone II family targets low-cost, high-volume applications and uses a 90 nm process with a 1.2 V core. Key features of the EP2C5Q208C8N include 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 RAM bits distributed across M4K blocks (typical block size 4,608 bits), up to 142 user I/O pins, and embedded multipliers (typically 13 per device) for low-cost DSP. The Q208 package (208-pin PQFP) gives ample I/O for parallel buses, memory interfaces, and standard digital peripherals, and supports multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, and LVDS. Configuration is supported through active serial (AS), passive serial (PS), JTAG, and Fast Passive Parallel (FPP) modes. Architecturally, Cyclone II devices use a logic-element array based on 4-input look-up tables (LUTs) with associated carry and register chains, fed by a multi-level routing fabric. Embedded M4K RAM blocks can be configured as true dual-port, simple dual-port, or single-port memory and support FIFO and shift-register modes. The PLL-based clock management provides up to four phase-locked loops for frequency synthesis and clock-domain alignment. The device operates from a single 1.2 V core supply with separate VCCIO banks for I/O standard flexibility. Typical applications include digital signal processing front-ends, industrial control and factory automation, video processing and display controllers, communication protocol bridging (UART/SPI/I2C to Ethernet or USB), motor control, and educational / hobbyist development platforms. The combination of low unit cost, JTAG-based development, and a free Quartus II design toolchain has made this family a workhorse for low-to-mid density programmable logic. When designing with the EP2C5Q208C8N, allocate adequate decoupling (0.1 uF and 10 uF) near each supply pin, follow Altera/Intel PCB layout guidelines for PQFP packages, and verify the I/O bank VCCIO voltages against your peripheral logic levels. Note that this part is no longer recommended for new designs (NRND) - users should plan migration paths to Cyclone IV or Cyclone 10 LP families. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in Cyclone II alternatives, application notes, and practical design considerations not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet.
EP2C5Q208I8 - Cyclone II FPGA, 4,608 LEs, 208-PQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C5Q208I8 is a low-cost Cyclone II Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) housed in a 208-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP) package with 142 user I/O pins. Built on a 1.2V, 90 nm CMOS process, it integrates 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 memory bits distributed across 26 M4K RAM blocks, and 13 embedded 18x18 multipliers, giving designers a balanced mix of logic, memory, and DSP resources for cost-sensitive applications. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that contains an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and dedicated silicon resources such as block RAM and multiplier blocks. After manufacture, the device is configured by the customer using a Hardware Description Language (HDL) such as Verilog or VHDL, making FPGAs ideal for parallel processing, custom glue logic, and rapid prototyping without the NRE cost of an ASIC. FPGAs sit in the broader taxonomy of digital semiconductors: IC -> programmable logic -> FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> Cyclone II family. Key specifications include 2 PLLs for clock management, 4 clock networks, support for LVDS, LVTTL, PCI, SSTL-2, and SSTL-3 I/O standards, an operating temperature range of -40C to +100C (commercial/industrial grade), and configuration via passive serial, active serial, or JTAG. The Cyclone II architecture also provides dedicated DDR SDRAM interface support, making it suitable for memory-intensive data buffering and video line-store applications. Typical applications include industrial control and motor drives, video processing and display controllers, automotive infotainment, low-cost digital signal processing, communication protocol bridging (UART/SPI/I2C to parallel), and educational FPGA development boards. The 208-PQFP package supports hand-soldering and through-hole-style prototyping workflows, which are less common on newer BGA-only FPGA families. When designing with this device, plan for a 1.2V core supply plus a separate I/O bank voltage, and review the Quartus II (or the supported Quartus Prime 13.0sp1 legacy edition) timing constraints for your clock domains. The 208-PQFP package has higher lead inductance than BGA equivalents, so high-speed LVDS above 640 Mbps may require external termination adjustments. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in pin-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes not consolidated on a single manufacturer or distributor product page.
EP2C5Q208I8N - Cyclone II FPGA 4608 LE, 142 I/O | Intel
The Intel EP2C5Q208I8N is a Cyclone II field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 RAM bits, and 142 user I/Os in a 208-pin PQFP package. It is built on 90 nm CMOS technology, operates from a 1.2 V core supply, and is intended for cost-sensitive digital systems that require flexible logic integration. The package is a 208-pin plastic quad flat pack (PQFP/BFQFP) with a lead-free N suffix finish, and the I8 designator denotes an industrial temperature grade with the -8 speed grade. An FPGA is a semiconductor device containing programmable logic blocks and programmable interconnects that can be configured after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital circuits. In the broader taxonomy, an FPGA belongs to programmable logic devices, which sit above complex PLDs and CPLDs and below full-custom ASICs. FPGAs provide rapid hardware prototyping, in-field reconfiguration, and parallel processing capabilities that microcontrollers and DSPs cannot match for high-throughput data paths. The EP2C5Q208I8N combines 4,608 logic elements with 119,808 bits of embedded RAM, allowing moderate state machines, FIFOs, and line buffers to be implemented without external memory for small applications. The 142 user I/Os support system-level interfaces such as DDR memory buses, parallel ADCs/DACs, and general-purpose LVCMOS/LVTTL connections. The 90 nm process balances low cost with adequate logic density and power efficiency for industrial embedded systems. The device uses SRAM-based configuration, so external non-volatile configuration memory is required at power-up. A dedicated configuration controller in the Cyclone II architecture loads the bitstream from an EPC-series or third-party serial flash device. The on-chip PLLs provide clock multiplication and phase shifting for the logic fabric, supporting typical system clocking requirements in measurement and communications equipment. Typical applications include industrial machine control, video and imaging pipelines, communication protocol bridging, motor control, test instrumentation, and custom I/O expansion. The 208-pin PQFP package is particularly well suited for boards where low-cost assembly and accessible probing are preferred over fine-pitch BGA packaging. When designing with the EP2C5Q208I8N, pay close attention to the 1.2 V core supply decoupling and the multiple VCCIO bank voltages. A proper power-up sequence and dedicated configuration flash are essential for reliable operation. Because the device is SRAM-based, the configuration bitstream must be reloaded after every power cycle. This page aggregates verified distributor data, practical design guidance, Cyclone II family comparisons, and drop-in Q208 variants that are not always listed on the manufacturer datasheet summary, helping engineers make a faster sourcing decision.
EP2C5T144C6 - Cyclone II FPGA, 4,608 LE, 144-TQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) Cyclone II EP2C5T144C6 is a low-cost, low-power 90 nm SRAM-based Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) housed in a 144-pin LQFP (also referred to as 144-TQFP) package. According to distributor listings, the device integrates 4,608 logic elements (LEs), 119,808 RAM bits, 13 embedded 18x18 multipliers, and supports up to 89 general-purpose user I/O pins, making it a popular choice for cost-sensitive digital logic, glue-logic, and DSP-front-end designs introduced in the late-2000s era. The 'C6' speed grade indicates a commercial temperature range (0C to +85C) with the standard (non-fastest) speed bin, while the 'I7' or 'C8' speed grades offer higher performance where available. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be electrically reconfigured after manufacture to implement arbitrary digital logic. In the system hierarchy FPGAs sit alongside ASICs, microcontrollers, and DSPs as reprogrammable compute fabric, but are distinguished by their parallel architecture, deterministic timing, and ability to host custom high-speed serial, memory, or processor cores. The Cyclone II family was Intel/Altera's second-generation low-cost FPGA line, succeeded by Cyclone III, Cyclone IV, and Cyclone V (now with embedded ARM cores). It remains widely deployed in long-lifecycle industrial, industrial-automation, and educational designs, and is frequently the lowest-cost way to obtain a genuine FPGA from authorized channels. Key features of the EP2C5T144C6 include 4,608 LEs, two on-chip PLL blocks for clock synthesis, 13 dedicated 18x18 hardware multipliers (capable of approximately 50-150 MHz DSP throughput depending on routing), 119,808 bits of embedded M4K memory, support for LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL-2/H, and other I/O standards, and configuration via JTAG or Active Serial (AS) modes. The device requires 1.2 V core and 3.3 V I/O supply rails. Typical applications include industrial motor control, video processing front-ends, software-defined radio (SDR) baseband, educational FPGA development boards (DE1/DE2), low-volume ASIC prototyping, and consumer-electronics glue logic. The 144-TQFP package is a low-cost plastic surface-mount package compatible with hand-soldering and low-cost PCB assembly lines. When designing with the EP2C5T144C6, ensure the Quartus II design software (13.0sp1 or earlier; Quartus Prime does not support Cyclone II) is used for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing closure. Designers should observe banked I/O supply constraints, use proper decoupling (100 nF per supply pin plus bulk capacitors), and respect the 1.2 V core-rail tolerance of +/-5%. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives (EP2C5T144C7, EP2C5T144C8, EP2C5T144I6, plus 144-pin-compatible family members), and practical design notes not always obvious from the Cyclone II Device Handbook alone.
EP2C5T144C6N - Cyclone II FPGA 4.6K LEs 144-LQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C5T144C6N is a low-cost Cyclone II Field Programmable Gate Array housed in a 144-pin LQFP (T144) package, delivering 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 bits of embedded RAM, and 89 user I/O pins on TSMC's 90nm low-k dielectric process. Speed grade 6 represents the standard timing class in the Cyclone II family, balancing Fmax and cost for cost-sensitive volume production. Operating at 1.15V-1.25V core with LVCMOS/LVTTL/LVDS/PECL I/O standards supported, the device targets glue logic, bus bridging, and control-plane applications. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit whose digital logic functionality is defined after manufacturing by the customer, via a configuration bitstream. FPGAs sit in the broader taxonomy: programmable logic device (PLD) -> FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> Cyclone II family. They differ from ASICs by offering rapid prototyping, field re-programmability, and lower NRE cost, while trading off per-unit cost and absolute performance against fixed-function ASICs. Cyclone II is positioned in the low-density, low-power tier below the Cyclone III/IV/V families. Key features include up to 89 user I/O pins across 4 I/O banks, embedded 18x18 multipliers (13 total) for DSP-style arithmetic, dual-purpose configuration pins, and JTAG boundary-scan (IEEE 1149.1) for in-system programming and boundary test. The device supports multiple configuration modes including AS, PS, JTAG, and FPP, enabling flexible boot from EPCS serial flash or microprocessor hosts. The 144-pin LQFP package is plastic and surface-mount with 0.5mm pitch, suited to standard SMT assembly lines without requiring BGA-grade inspection. Cyclone II FPGAs use a logic element (LE) granularity built around 4-input look-up tables (LUT4), each with an associated carry chain and register. The M4K embedded RAM blocks (13 blocks of 4,608 bits each) deliver true dual-port operation up to 250 MHz and can be configured as RAM, ROM, or FIFO buffers. Phase-locked loops (PLLs) provide clock multiplication, division, and phase shifting across the 2-4 PLLs available per device. Typical applications include industrial motor control front-ends, low-density protocol bridges (UART/SPI/I2C to Ethernet), LED display controllers, video processing front-ends, educational development boards, and low-cost DSP pipelines. The Cyclone II is well-suited to designs where pin count and logic density demand exceed microcontrollers but ASIC NRE cannot be amortized. When designing, plan for JTAG access (TCK/TMS/TDO/TDI pulled appropriately), 2.5V/3.3V bank voltage compatibility, decoupling per power pin, and configuration storage via EPCS1/EPCS4 serial flash. The LQFP-144 package benefits from generous copper pours and routed differential pairs for LVDS signals where jitter budget matters. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives in the same LQFP-144 footprint, and practical design notes not found on any single distributor listing.
EP2C5T144C7 - Cyclone II FPGA, 4,608 LEs, 144-LQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP2C5T144C7 is a low-cost Cyclone II Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) built on a 90 nm CMOS process, delivering 4,608 logic elements, 119,808 RAM bits, and 89 user I/O pins in a 144-pin TQFP (T144) package. The device operates from a 1.2 V core supply with 3.3 V LVCMOS/LVTTL I/O support and is offered in the commercial speed grade 7 tier targeting general-purpose logic, glue replacement, and parallel DSP preprocessing tasks. A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is a semiconductor IC containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated hard IP such as block RAM and multipliers, all controllable by an SRAM-based configuration bitstream. FPGAs sit in the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLD), above simple CPLDs and below ASICs in cost-per-volume but well above microcontrollers in raw parallel throughput. Cyclone II specifically targets the low-power, low-cost end of the FPGA market introduced in 2004 to displace ASICs in volume consumer and industrial designs. Key features include 13 embedded 18x18 multipliers suitable for DSP workloads, four phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, support for external memory interfaces including DDR/DDR2 SDRAM and QDRII SRAM, and a 1.2 V core with multi-voltage I/O banks. Configuration is loaded from serial or parallel flash, JTAG, or Altera/Intel Quartus II software. The part is non-volatile in the sense that the configuration must be reloaded after each power-up since the SRAM cells are volatile. The Cyclone II architecture uses four-input look-up tables (LUTs) per logic element, embedded M4K RAM blocks (each 4 Kbit plus parity), and a hierarchical routing fabric. The 90 nm process gives a balance of leakage and performance suitable for fanless industrial enclosures; maximum internal clock frequency for this speed grade is in the hundreds of MHz for typical paths, and design tools report fMAX figures in the device handbook rather than on a single datasheet page. Typical applications include industrial control and human-machine interface panels, video processing front-ends, low-cost motor control, glue logic bridging microcontrollers to parallel peripherals, and education kits where Quartus II support and a free Web Edition toolchain lower the entry barrier. The 144-pin TQFP footprint is also breadboard-friendly, which makes the part popular in university digital-design labs and prototype boards. When designing with this device, plan the power budget around the 1.2 V core current (which scales with logic utilization and toggle rate) and the 3.3 V I/O current, and place decoupling capacitors within 5 mm of each supply pin per the Cyclone II Handbook pin connection guidelines. Use Quartus II 13.0sp1 or 13.1 (the last release supporting Cyclone II) for synthesis; later Quartus versions have dropped Cyclone II device support. This page synthesizes distributor stock, drop-in same-family Cyclone II alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, giving engineers a single reference for the EP2C5T144C7 in current designs.