FPGA & CPLD
Products (6352)
EPC144IPC8N - Altera/Intel Enhanced Configuration Device
The EPC144IPC8N is an Enhanced Configuration Device (EPC) from Altera (now part of Intel) designed to store and deliver configuration bitstreams to Altera FPGAs such as the Cyclone, Stratix, and APEX families. It is a single-chip Flash-based configuration memory solution with an integrated IEEE 1149.1 (JTAG) interface, eliminating the need for an external configuration controller. The 'IPC8N' suffix denotes the industrial temperature range, an 8-pin PDIP package, and lead-free / Pb-free terminal finish. An FPGA configuration memory is a non-volatile storage device that holds the SRAM configuration bitstream of an SRAM-based FPGA. Because SRAM cells lose their data on power-down, every SRAM FPGA requires an external boot memory that reloads the bitstream at power-up. Enhanced Configuration Devices are a category of such boot memories that integrate the configuration controller, voltage management, and JTAG ISP into one IC, simplifying board design. Key features of the EPC144IPC8N include in-system programmability via JTAG, a built-in oscillator that generates the configuration clock (DCLK) for the target FPGA, and a 3.3V core / multi-Voltage I/O interface that supports target FPGAs operating at 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V, or 5V. The device is configured by the FPGA itself using a slave-serial or slave-parallel-selectmap-style protocol, and a chain of EPCs can be cascaded to support larger FPGA bitstreams. Architecturally, the EPC144IPC8N combines a Flash array with an embedded state machine. At FPGA power-on, the FPGA drives nCONFIG and the EPC device responds by clocking its stored bitstream out through DATA(n) and DCLK pins, re-configuring the target FPGA's SRAM cells. The on-chip controller handles compression, error detection, and JTAG instructions (SAMPLE/PRELOAD, EXTEST, BYPASS, PROGRAM, ERASE, VERIFY, IDCODE). Typical applications include Altera Cyclone II / III FPGA boot, Stratix / Stratix II reference designs, industrial controllers using APEX 20K and ACEX 1K families, and legacy telecom / factory-automation designs migrated to Altera FPGAs. The EPC144IPC8N is most commonly paired with small- to medium-density Altera FPGAs whose bitstream fits within its density window. When designing with the EPC144IPC8N, ensure decoupling per Altera reference design (typically 0.1 uF near VCC), keep JTAG trace lengths below 6 inches for reliable ISP, and verify chain timing against the target FPGA's configuration clock maximum. Use Altera Quartus II programmer software (version 13.0 or earlier is recommended) for in-system programming.
EPC144IPI8 - 4Mb EPC Flash Config Memory | Intel / Altera
The Altera (Intel) EPC144IPI8 is a serial-configuration (Flash-based) memory device designed to store configuration bitstreams for Altera FLEX and other SRAM-based programmable logic devices. It provides 4,338,006 bits of non-volatile storage and uses a simple serial interface, eliminating the need for external boot PROMs in many designs. The device is offered in an 8-pin PDIP package with industrial temperature grade (I8 suffix) and supports in-system programming via JTAG. An FPGA configuration memory is a specialized non-volatile memory that holds the bitstream image loaded into an SRAM-based FPGA at power-up. Since SRAM FPGAs lose their configuration when power is removed, an external boot memory such as the EPC144IPI8 reloads the design every time the system powers up. These devices sit in the configuration chain hierarchy: configuration memory -> FPGA configuration interface -> SRAM LUT-based FPGA -> programmable logic device. They are essential for any production design using SRAM-based FPGAs that needs instant-on or stand-alone operation without a microprocessor host. Key features include 4,338,012 bits (approximately 4 Mb) of storage, a low-pin-count serial interface that uses only four signals (DATA, DCLK, nCS, OE), in-system programmability through the JTAG boundary-scan chain, and an industrial operating temperature range of -40C to +85C. The 8-pin PDIP package allows easy through-hole assembly and rework, which is convenient for legacy designs and prototype boards. Technically, the EPC144IPI8 is built on a standard floating-gate NOR Flash process and emulates a serial daisy-chain configuration PROM. Internally it implements an oscillator-driven state machine that clocks configuration data out on the rising edge of DCLK after nCS goes low. The device is specified for 3.3V or 5V operation depending on revision, and supports cascading of multiple devices for designs that require larger bitstreams than 4 Mb. Typical applications include Altera FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, APEX 20K and ACEX 1K configuration, industrial control boards using SRAM FPGAs, prototyping platforms for legacy Altera devices, and field-upgradable logic modules where JTAG reprogramming of the boot memory simplifies firmware updates. Designers working with modern Altera/Intel Cyclone or Stratix families should confirm datasheet compatibility before substituting, as some newer devices use different configuration schemes. When designing with the EPC144IPI8, ensure the JTAG chain order matches the datasheet reference schematic and that nCONFIG / nSTATUS pull-ups are sized correctly for the chosen FPGA. The serial configuration interface requires careful trace-length matching if the boot memory sits more than a few centimeters from the FPGA. This page synthesizes distributor stock data, drop-in alternatives drawn from the Site MPN list, and practical configuration-chain design notes not found on the manufacturer product page.
EPC144L120 - Altera/Intel EPC1441 Configuration Device 120-QFP
The Intel EPC144L120 is a member of the EPC1441 family of serial configuration devices, supplied by Intel (formerly Altera), designed to load the configuration bitstream of ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, FLEX 10K, and Mercury-class FPGAs over a single-wire serial interface. The EPC144L120 variant specifies the 120-pin QFP operating range and uses a low-voltage CMOS SRAM-based architecture to store the FPGA configuration image. A Configuration Device is a non-volatile (one-time-programmable, OTP) serial memory specifically architected to stream configuration data into an Altera FPGA during power-up. It connects to the host FPGA through a dedicated serial configuration interface (DATA, DCLK, nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE). Compared to a generic serial EEPROM, a configuration device adds FPGA-aware handshaking, automatic reconfiguration on bitstream error, and pin-level compatibility with Altera/Intel FPGA configuration controllers. Key features of the EPC144L120 family include 100,000 (EPC1441 naming convention indicates density family; specific density bits to be confirmed from datasheet) configuration bits, a continuous-streaming serial interface, 3.3 V or 5 V tolerant I/O, and a QFP-120 (L120 suffix) plastic package for surface-mount assembly. Programming is performed once by Altera's software tools, after which the device retains the bitstream indefinitely without external supplies. In a typical system, the EPC144L120 sits next to the target FPGA and is wired to its configuration pins. On power-up, the FPGA drives nSTATUS low, then the EPC144L120 clocks the bitstream out through DATA into the FPGA's configuration RAM. Engineers designing with this device should ensure proper decoupling on VCC and that the nINIT_CONF / nCONFIG pull-ups follow the Altera reference schematic, otherwise the device may fail to enumerate on cold start.
EPC144L20 - 440kbit OTP Config PROM for FPGAs | Altera/Intel
The Altera (Intel Programmable Solutions Group) EPC144L20 is an OTP (One-Time Programmable) configuration PROM designed to load configuration bitstreams into Altera FPGA devices at power-up, supplied in a 20-pin LCC (Leadless Chip Carrier) package. The device stores 440,800 bits organized as 440,800 × 1, and uses a serial interface that targets legacy Altera FPGA families. What is a configuration PROM? It is a non-volatile memory device that holds the FPGA's configuration bitstream and delivers it serially to the FPGA during power-up initialization, before the FPGA enters user mode. Without a configuration source, SRAM-based FPGAs cannot operate, because their configuration RAM is volatile. Configuration PROMs sit in the boot chain between the system power-on reset and the FPGA's configuration controller (e.g., Altera FPP, PS, or AS modes). Key features include a 3.3V single supply, a four-pin serial interface (nCS, DCLK, DATA, nCONFIG/nSTATUS) compatible with Altera's configuration controller, industrial operating temperature range, and a leadless ceramic-style 20-pin LCC package that supports socketed programming and high-reliability applications. The LCC package offers a compact footprint with perimeter leads that simplify board integration in legacy and industrial systems. The EPC144L20 uses an anti-fuse OTP cell array, meaning each bit can be programmed exactly once. After programming, the bitstream is permanent for the device lifetime. The serial interface is clocked by the FPGA at frequencies defined in the legacy Altera configuration protocol. The device is one of the older EPC1xxx family members (EPC1441/EPC144/EPC1213/EPC1064), predating the modern EPCQ serial flash family. Typical applications include legacy Altera FPGA configuration bitstream storage for FLEX 10K, ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, and Mercury FPGA families, factory-floor industrial controllers where the OTP cell ensures configuration stability, and aerospace/defense retrofits where socketed ceramic-style PROMs simplify field programming. When designing with this device, ensure the configuration mode selected in the FPGA matches the serial protocol expected by the EPC144L20. Voltage sequencing (VCC ramp before nCONFIG release) must follow the legacy Altera reference schematic. OTP programming requires a single programming cycle - re-programming an already programmed device is not possible. This page synthesizes legacy distributor availability, same-family drop-in alternatives (EPC1441LC20, EPC144ILC20), and design notes specific to legacy Altera configuration boot chains.
EPC144LC20 - 144KB Serial Config PROM, 20-LCC | Intel (Altera)
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPC144LC20 is a 144-Kbit serial configuration memory device in a 20-pin LCC (Leadless Chip Carrier) package, designed for configuring Altera FPGA families via the serial configuration scheme. It provides 144,000 bits of non-volatile storage that is loaded into the FPGA's configuration SRAM at power-up via the dedicated serial configuration interface (DATA, DCLK, nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE). An FPGA configuration PROM is a one-time or few-time programmable serial memory that holds the FPGA's bitstream. When the system powers up, the FPGA loads its logic configuration from the PROM through a synchronous serial link. The EPC144LC20 is part of Altera's classic EPC1 series configuration memories, designed to support legacy Altera FPGA families such as the FLEX 6000, FLEX 8000, FLEX 10K, ACEX 1K, MAX 7000, MAX 3000 and APEX 20K series. The PROM is organized as a serial shift register; an internal oscillator generates the configuration clock, simplifying host design. Key features include 144 Kbit storage capacity, automatic continuous configuration on power-up, low-pin-count serial interface (4 signal pins plus VCC/GND), 3.3V or 5V operation, in-system programmable via IEEE Std 1532 / Jam STAPL, and a compact 20-pin LCC surface-mount footprint (also known as LCC-20 or JLCC-20). The device is one-time programmable (OTP) in standard configuration, simplifying bill-of-material by removing external programming steps at board build. Programming is performed via the JTAG-compatible 4-wire interface using Altera's Quartus II / MAX+PLUS II toolchains. Typical applications include configuration memory for legacy Altera FPGAs, industrial controllers using FLEX 10K or APEX 20K devices, telecom line cards with MAX 7000 glue logic, retrofits of legacy Altera designs where original EPROM-based configuration is replaced by a single chip, and embedded systems that boot from a serial bitstream. The EPC144LC20 is also widely used in CPLD-based glue logic designs where a small FPGA is configured by an adjacent configuration PROM. When designing with this device, place decoupling capacitors as close as possible to the VCC pins (typically one 0.1 uF ceramic per supply pin). The LCC-20 package has no exposed thermal pad; the device draws minimal current during configuration (typically <50 mA active, <100 uA standby) so no heatsink is required. Ensure the JTAG chain (TCK/TMS/TDO/TDI) is terminated correctly if multiple Altera devices share the chain; use Altera's ByteBlaster or USB-Blaster cables for in-system programming. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet. The EPC144LC20 is a legacy configuration device with mature second-source options; consult the Intel (Altera) Configuration Devices datasheet for full timing specifications.
EPC144PC8 - Altera 433800612 Configurator DIP-8 | Intel
The Altera (Intel) EPC144PC8 is a member of the Altera EPC144 family of serial configuration devices designed to load configuration bitstreams into SRAM-based FPGAs such as the EPF10K, FLEX 8000, and APEX families. Packaged in an 8-pin PDIP through-hole case, the part stores one bitstream (commonly referenced as Altera part number 433800612 / density-marked variant) and is specified for a commercial 0 °C to +70 °C operating range with a 4.75 V to 5.25 V supply rail. What is a configuration device? An FPGA configuration (PROM) IC is a non-volatile memory that holds the FPGA's bitstream and serially transfers it to the FPGA at power-up. The EPC144PC8 belongs to the hierarchy: configuration PROM -> programmable logic support -> programmable logic device -> semiconductor IC. It is the older Altera-gen equivalent to today's EPCQ-A / EPCS family and acts as a boot-source companion to the FPGA, sitting in the supply-rail reset chain and freeing the FPGA from needing a parallel configuration flash. Key features include a serial data interface that connects to the FPGA's nCONFIG / DCLK / DATA0 chain, an open-drain CONF_DONE status pin, an open-drain nSTATUS indicator, a 4.75 V to 5.25 V single-supply operation, and a 100k to 100k write-erase cycle endurance typical of EPROM technology. Device programming is performed via the ByteBlaster or BitBlaster cable using the Quartus / MAX+PLUS II software toolchain. Architecturally, the EPC144PC8 is an EPROM-based configuration memory cell array, packaged in a plastic dual-in-line through-hole form factor for prototype and legacy industrial boards. Its DIP-8 footprint matches the EPC2/EPC1441 footprint family, simplifying retrofits. Typical applications include legacy Altera APEX 20K, FLEX 10K, and FLEX 8000 series FPGA configuration, retrofitted industrial controllers, factory automation backplanes, and prototyping boards that still rely on parallel-port BitBlaster programming. When designing with this device, verify the host FPGA's configuration mode (PS vs AS) and clock-rise timing in MAX+PLUS II. The CONF_DONE and nSTATUS pins require external 4.7 kΩ pull-ups to VCC for the JTAG-style daisy chain to function correctly. This page synthesizes distributor pricing snapshots, drop-in same-package alternatives (EPC1441PC8, EPC144IPC8, EPC144PC8N), and practical design notes that the manufacturer datasheet alone does not aggregate.
EPC144PI8 - Altera 144Kb Serial Config EPROM, 8-Pin DIP
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPC144PI8 is a 144-Kbit serial-configuration EPROM designed to load the configuration bitstream of legacy Altera FPGAs such as the FLEX 6000, FLEX 8000, and early Cyclone-class devices at power-up. The 'PI8' suffix indicates an 8-pin PDIP (plastic DIP) package, industrial temperature grade, and the 1.8 V core process option. Configuration memory density is 144,096 bits, sufficient to program mid-range FPGAs of the FLEX series in a single device, and the chip is supplied in an 8-pin PDIP through-hole package for easy prototyping and field replacement. Key features include a simple 4-wire serial interface (DCLK, DATA, nCS, and nINIT_STATUS), low-power CMOS process technology, automatic power-on reset, and open-drain nINIT_STATUS output for chain-of-devices configuration. The device is a one-time programmable (OTP) EPROM, meaning each EPC144 is factory- or customer-programmed with a unique bitstream image and cannot be electrically erased. Configuration clock frequencies up to 10 MHz (typical) are supported, with data loaded synchronously into the target FPGA's SRAM configuration cells. The EPC144 belongs to Altera's classic serial configuration-device family, which sits hierarchically under programmable logic configuration memory, which itself falls under FPGA support memory. Functionally it provides non-volatile storage of the FPGA configuration bitstream, replacing JTAG or microprocessor-driven boot loading in space- or cost-constrained designs. The 8-pin PDIP form factor was Altera's standard footprint for configuration memory during the FLEX 6000 / FLEX 8000 era, and is pin-compatible with the EPC1, EPC2, EPC4, EPC8, and EPC16 devices within that family. Typical applications include legacy FLEX 6000 / FLEX 8000 design boot, FLEX 10K configuration loading, board bring-up for older Altera FPGA reference platforms, and as a drop-in replacement where an existing EPC144 in a 300-mil PDIP footprint is being re-sourced or requalified. The DIP package also makes it useful for educational kits and engineering prototypes where socketed parts are preferred. Designers should note that the EPC144PI8 has been classified as NRND/EOL by Altera/Intel for new designs: modern Cyclone, Cyclone II, Cyclone III and later devices use Altera/Intel EPCQ or compatible serial flash (typically 16-Mbit or larger). For new designs, use a modern configuration device or serial flash, and use EPC144PI8 only for sustaining legacy hardware. This page synthesizes distributor availability, same-package alternatives, lifecycle status, and practical replacement guidance that is not consolidated in any single source on the open web.
EPC144TC32 - Altera 440kb OTP Configuration PROM | 32-TQFP
The Altera (now Intel FPGA) EPC144TC32 is a one-time programmable (OTP) configuration memory device designed to store FPGA configuration bitstreams, providing 440,800 bits of storage in a 32-pin TQFP (7x7 mm) surface-mount package. It belongs to Altera's classic EPC family of serial configuration PROMs that were widely used with early Altera FLEX, ACEX, APEX, Cyclone, and Stratix series FPGAs. A configuration PROM (programmable read-only memory) is a non-volatile serial memory device that holds the FPGA's bitstream and serially configures the FPGA at power-on via a dedicated configuration interface. The EPC1xx family follows the hierarchy: configuration PROM -> serial memory -> non-volatile memory -> programmable logic support device. These devices replace EPROM/EEPROM-based configuration solutions and streamline FPGA boot logic by integrating the configuration controller, oscillator, and bitstream storage in a single chip. Key features of the EPC144TC32 include 440,800-bit storage capacity (sufficient for mid-density Altera FPGA bitstreams), a dedicated serial configuration interface (compatible with Altera FLEX/ACEX configuration schemes), low-power CMOS process technology, and an operating voltage range that aligns with classic 5V/3.3V Altera FPGA families. The 32-pin TQFP (7x7) package provides a compact footprint with surface-mount compatibility for volume manufacturing. Typical applications include Altera FLEX 10K, FLEX 6000, ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, and early Cyclone FPGA configuration storage in telecom, industrial control, networking, and embedded systems designs. The EPC144TC32 is most commonly found in legacy Altera-based designs and is often specified in long-lifecycle industrial and aerospace programs. When designing, note that the EPC144TC32 is OTP (one-time programmable) — once programmed, the bitstream cannot be erased or rewritten. For designs that require field re-programmability, the EPC2 or EPC4 erasable PROMs in the same TQFP-32 footprint should be considered. Verify that the specific Altera FPGA configuration mode (PS, AS, or JTAG) supports this device, as the EPC144 family targets older serial configuration schemes.
EPC144TC32N - Enhanced Configuration Device, 32-pin TQFP | Intel (Altera)
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPC144TC32N is an Enhanced Configuration (EPC) device in a 32-pin TQFP package, used to configure SRAM-based LUT devices such as the FLEX 8000 and FLEX 10K FPGA families. The EPC1441 device stores 440,800 bits of configuration data in serial EEPROM and supports in-system programmability via IEEE Std 1149.1 (JTAG) boundary-scan test, enabling designers to program, verify, and re-program FPGAs on the board without removing the device. An EPC (Enhanced Configuration) device is a serial-configuration memory that boots an SRAM-based FPGA at power-up. It sits on a dedicated serial configuration chain (typically 4- or 5-wire: nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, nCONFIG, DCLK, DATA0) and serially shifts the bitstream into the FPGA on every reset. EPC devices belong to the broader hierarchy of non-volatile configuration memory, distinct from parallel flash, microcontrollers, or CPLDs - they are specialized one-function parts optimized for low-cost, small-to-medium FPGA bitstream storage. The EPC1, EPC2, EPC4, EPC8, EPC16, EPC64 and EPC1441 form a density ladder from 1 Mbit to 16 Mbit. Key features of the EPC144TC32N include 440,800-bit (approximately 440 Kbit / ~54 KB) storage, 3.3 V core supply, in-system programmability through JTAG (IEEE 1149.1), a 4-pin JTAG interface (TMS, TCK, TDI, TDO), and industrial operating temperature range. The TQFP-32 surface-mount package gives a low profile and supports standard reflow soldering. Unlike parallel flash memory, the EPC1441 outputs configuration data serially at the DCLK rate controlled by the FPGA, simplifying board layout. Architecturally, the EPC144TC32N uses a serial EEPROM array with on-chip charge-pump for byte-write operations, an oscillator for internal timing, and a JTAG TAP controller for boundary-scan programming. The serial protocol is Altera-proprietary and designed so that the FPGA acts as the master during configuration - the EPC144TC32N does not arbitrate the bus. Programming voltage VPP is generated internally from VCC in normal mode, eliminating the need for an external 12 V supply. Typical applications include configuring Altera (now Intel) FLEX 8000, FLEX 10K, ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, Mercury, and older APEX II FPGAs in production hardware, prototype boards, and industrial control systems. The EPC1441 is commonly paired with mid-density FPGAs requiring bitstreams between 50 KB and 130 KB. For higher-density FPGAs (Stratix, Cyclone, Arria, Agilex) Intel now recommends their second-generation EPCQ serial flash, which uses standard SPI and supports higher clock rates. When designing with this device, ensure that the JTAG chain shares TDI/TDO with the FPGA in the proper order so the configuration device is accessible to the Quartus programmer. Decoupling (100 nF + 10 uF close to VCC and VPP pins) is required to keep the charge-pump stable during ISP. The EPC1441 supports both 3.3 V and 5 V tolerant I/O on the FPGA-facing pins, but VCC must remain within 3.0 V-3.6 V. Always consult the latest Altera/Intel AN 116 and Configuration Handbook for bitstream-compatibility notes. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
EPC144TI32 - 32-Pin TQFP Altera Configuration Device | Intel FPGA
The Altera (Intel) EPC144TI32 is a serial configuration PROM from the EPC144 family, providing 441,000 bits of one-time-programmable serial configuration storage in a 32-pin TQFP package. Designed for use with Altera/Intel FPGAs such as the Cyclone, Stratix, and APEX families, this device loads configuration bitstreams into the FPGA's SRAM-based LUTs at power-up via the dedicated configuration interface. The 'I' suffix indicates the industrial temperature grade, and the 'N' indicator confirms lead-free / Pb-free construction per industry standards. A configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device purpose-built for storing FPGA configuration bitstreams. In the Altera configuration hierarchy, the EPC family sits below SRAM-based LUTs (which must be re-loaded at every power-up) and above the host processor or JTAG chain. The PROM bitstream is shifted into the target FPGA's configuration RAM through a serial daisy-chain, with the FPGA's nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, and DCLK signals orchestrating the handshake. Key features of the EPC144TI32 include 441,000 configuration-bit density (sufficient for mid-density FPGAs), a TQFP-32 surface-mount footprint, single-supply operation (typically 3.3 V VCC), in-system programmability through the JTAG-compatible interface, and industrial operating temperature range. It is pin-to-pin compatible with other EPC144 TQFP-32 variants, allowing design reuse across the EPC144 family and between industrial- and commercial-grade versions of the same density. Designers also benefit from drop-in compatibility with higher-density EPC devices (EPC1, EPC2, EPC4) in many reference designs, easing migration as design complexity grows. From an architectural standpoint, the EPC144TI32 uses a memory cell optimized for fast serial output rather than random-access read performance. Programming is performed in-system through the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG chain shared with the target FPGA. Device endurance is rated for one-time-programmable (OTP) operation; for in-application reconfigurability Altera recommends the EPCS-series (Serial Configuration) devices instead. Typical applications include FPGA configuration memory for industrial controllers, factory automation, telecommunications line cards, and test-and-measurement instruments that require reliable, compact, one-time-programmed FPGA boot storage. The TQFP-32 industrial-grade part also supports -40C to +85C ambient operation, suiting outdoor and uncontrolled-environment deployments. When designing with this device, ensure that the JTAG chain routing keeps the PROM-to-FPGA DCLK trace short and well-terminated to avoid configuration errors. VCC decoupling requires a 0.1 uF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the VCC pin. For designs that may require future bitstream updates, consider the EPCS-series instead. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, application guidance, and practical design notes not found in the original EPC144 datasheet, giving engineers a single source for evaluating the EPC144TI32 against modern configuration PROM options.
EPC1664PI8 - 16Mb Enhanced Config Device for Stratix/Cyclone | Altera
The Altera EPC1664PI8 is a 16-Mbit Enhanced Configuration Device (EPC) supplied in an 8-pin PDIP (PI8) package, designed as a single-chip configuration memory solution for SRAM-based LUT FPGA families. It targets Altera Stratix, Cyclone, APEX II, APEX 20K, Mercury, and ACEX 1K devices, providing non-volatile storage for FPGA configuration bitstreams and supporting in-system programming via JTAG or the Altera ByteBlaster/MasterBlaster download cables. An Enhanced Configuration Device (EPC) is a member of the configuration-memory hierarchy used alongside PROMs, flash, and controller-based schemes. Conceptually it sits between generic serial PROMs (small bitstream storage) and full embedded memory controllers (large, multi-device solutions). EPC devices are purpose-built companions to Altera FPGAs, exposing a serial configuration interface that the FPGA masters at power-up. The EPC16 variant adds density, higher programming throughput, and cascade support relative to EPC4 and EPC8 predecessors. Key features include 16,777,216 bits (16 Mb) of configuration storage, cascadable architecture that allows two EPC devices to be chained for larger FPGA bitstreams, and a low-pin-count serial interface that frees board space. The device operates over the industrial temperature range and supports in-system programming, allowing firmware upgrades without removing the FPGA from the board. Technically, the EPC1664PI8 uses a 3.3 V supply and exposes a four-signal serial configuration bus (DATA, DCLK, nCONFIG, CONF_DONE plus JTAG). Programming algorithms are defined by the Altera Quartus II toolchain; the device appears as a JTAG-accessible target for boundary-scan and ISP. Read-back and verify operations are supported, simplifying board-level bring-up. Typical applications include factory programming stations for Altera/Intel Stratix and Cyclone boards, production programming of FPGA-based industrial controllers, telecom line cards, and legacy FPGA-based designs where board rework is undesirable. The PDIP-8 form factor also supports through-hole prototype sockets and easy rework in engineering builds. When designing in this part, ensure that the FPGA's MSEL pins select the EPC configuration mode, that nCONFIG and CONF_DONE are pulled correctly, and that the JTAG chain order matches the Quartus generated SOF/JIC file. Designers moving from 3.3 V to 1.8 V FPGAs should re-validate the level-shifter on the serial data path. This page synthesizes distributor pricing for the EPC1664PI8, Altera (Intel) configuration device family cross-references, and practical design notes not consolidated in the original datasheet.
EPC16C100T - 16Mb Enhanced Config Device for SRAM FPGAs | Intel
The Intel EPC16C100T (formerly Altera EPC16C100T) is a 16-Mbit enhanced configuration memory device designed to configure SRAM-based look-up-table (LUT) FPGAs such as the Stratix, Cyclone, APEX, and Mercury families. It integrates a flash memory array, a configuration controller, and an IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface in a single 100-pin PQFP package, providing designers with a robust single-chip solution for storing FPGA configuration bitstreams. An FPGA configuration device is a non-volatile memory that stores the bitstream loaded by an SRAM-based FPGA at power-up. Unlike SRAM FPGAs (which lose configuration when power is removed), these devices retain bitstream data across power cycles and present it to the FPGA through a serial or parallel configuration interface. The EPC16 family belongs to the broader hierarchy: configuration memory -> non-volatile memory -> semiconductor memory IC, and is a specialized power-management companion to LUT-based FPGAs. Key features include 16 Mb of flash storage, in-system programmability via JTAG, support for Fast Passive Parallel (FPP), Passive Serial (PS), Passive Parallel Asynchronous (PPA), and Passive Parallel Synchronous (PPS) configuration schemes, plus a 3.3V core / 1.8V-3.3V I/O interface. The device also supports compression for Stratix/Stratix II, multi-device configuration via daisy-chaining, and remote update through dedicated configuration schemes. The EPC16C100T uses a dedicated configuration controller that handles handshaking with the host FPGA. Its 100-pin PQFP package offers a through-hole-friendly footprint with standard 0.65 mm lead pitch, and the JTAG chain allows board-level in-system programming using the IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan infrastructure without removing the device from the board. Typical applications include Stratix-series FPGA configuration in telecommunications line cards, industrial control boards, and military/aerospace embedded systems where field-upgradeable firmware and reliable single-chip boot are essential. The remote-update feature enables fail-safe firmware revision management in remote, unattended installations. When designing with this device, ensure that nCONFIG, nSTATUS, and CONF_DONE follow Altera reference design guidelines. The JTAG chain must be correctly ordered to avoid back-drive contention, and the decoupling network (typically 0.1 uF + 10 uF bulk) must be placed close to VCC pins. The EPC16C100T is being phased out as Altera/Intel migrates the Stratix family to newer configuration solutions, so verify lifecycle status before new designs. This page synthesizes distributor availability, pin-compatible alternatives, and design considerations that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers evaluate replacement options for legacy designs.
EPC16QI100T - 16Mb FPGA Configuration PROM | Altera | PQFP-100
The Altera (now Intel) EPC16QI100T is a 16-Mbit enhanced configuration device (PROM) designed to configure SRAM-based LUT FPGAs such as Stratix, APEX II, APEX 20K, Mercury, ACEX 1K, and FLEX 10K devices. Housed in a 100-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) measuring 20x14 mm and shipped on Tape and Reel (suffix T), it provides single-device, high-speed, advanced configuration support for very high-density Altera FPGAs. A configuration PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a non-volatile flash memory that stores the bitstream image of an FPGA. At FPGA power-up, the PROM loads the bitstream serially or in parallel into the FPGA's SRAM configuration cells, defining the FPGA's logic, routing, and I/O behavior. Enhanced configuration devices divide the silicon into two blocks: a configuration controller that manages the FPGA handshake (nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, nCONFIG) and a flash memory array that holds the bitstream. Key features include 16 Mbit of flash memory, compression support that lets a smaller PROM hold a larger FPGA bitstream (decompression happens in the FPGA), in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG, page-mode configuration for fast multi-device daisy chains, and 3.3V single-supply operation. The device uses the Altera EPC16 controller IP and supports both serial and parallel (8-bit) configuration data widths depending on FPGA connection mode. Architecturally, the EPC16QI100T combines a flash core, a configuration state machine, JTAG TAP controller, and I/O buffers. The compression feature reduces external storage requirements; a 16 Mb PROM can effectively configure FPGAs whose uncompressed bitstreams exceed 16 Mb because the data is compressed in the PROM and decompressed by the FPGA's built-in decoder. Typical applications include factory programming of Stratix-series FPGA prototypes, OEM production boards using ACEX 1K and FLEX 10K designs, industrial controller platforms, and any legacy Altera FPGA-based system that requires non-volatile boot storage. It is also used in military and aerospace retrofits where original configuration PROMs have aged out. When designing with this part, ensure the FPGA's configuration mode (serial vs parallel) matches the PROM's data-width interface. Verify JTAG chain ordering when the PROM shares the JTAG bus with the FPGA, and observe VCC ramp-time limits during power-up sequencing. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the EPC16 family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
EPC16SI16N - 16Mb Enhanced Configuration Device, 16-SOIC | Altera / Intel
The Intel (Altera) EPC16SI16N is a 16-Mbit enhanced configuration device supplied in a 16-pin SOIC package, designed to store and deliver configuration bitstreams to Altera SRAM-based FPGAs such as the Stratix II and Cyclone series. It provides 16 Mb of non-volatile flash memory, supports the enhanced serial (FAST passive parallel-style) configuration interface, and operates from a single 3.3 V supply with an industry-standard 4-wire serial interface plus dedicated configuration control pins (nCS, nRESET, nSTATUS, DCLK, DATA). An enhanced configuration device (EPC family) is a specialized flash-memory IC whose sole function is to retain FPGA configuration bitstreams between power-cycles so that an SRAM-based LUT FPGA can self-load at power-up. It sits in the wider taxonomy: configuration memory -> non-volatile memory -> memory IC -> semiconductor. Engineers select EPC-class parts when they need single-device, pin-compatible storage that the FPGA's configuration controller can read directly, eliminating a separate boot PROM or microcontroller bootloader. Key features include 16 Mb of flash, in-system programmability via JTAG, an operating frequency up to 40 MHz in fast configuration mode, and a compact 16-pin 300-mil SOIC footprint. The 'SI' suffix denotes the 16-pin SOIC industrial operating range (-40 C to +85 C), and the 'N' suffix indicates a lead-free / matte-tin finish compatible with lead-free reflow profiles. Architecturally the EPC16SI16N implements page-mode flash with on-chip charge-pump generation, internal write state-machine, and JTAG boundary-scan, providing multi-cycle in-system reprogrammability without external programming voltage. It supports daisy-chain configuration across multiple FPGAs and integrates the nSTATUS/nCONFIG handshaking required by Stratix/Stratix II/Stratix III/Cyclone/Cyclone II/Cyclone III controllers. Typical applications include Stratix II prototype boards, industrial FPGA control cards, factory automation logic, and any single-FPGA design requiring a compact, non-volatile configuration memory. In legacy Altera designs the EPC16SI16N is the canonical storage companion to the EP2S15, EP2S30, and EP2C20 device families. When designing with this device, verify that the target FPGA's configuration controller supports the enhanced-configuration device interface (PS mode with EPC control logic). PCB layout should keep DCLK traces short and add a 0.1 uF + 10 uF decoupling network close to VCC, and unused JTAG TCK/TMS lines should be left floating per Altera application note guidance. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives drawn from the same Altera/Intel configuration-memory family, and practical design notes not found in the standalone datasheet.
EPC16T144C8N - Altera Enhanced Configuration Device, 16Mb, 144-LQFP
The Intel (Altera) EPC16T144C8N is a 16-megabit Enhanced Configuration Device designed to configure SRAM-based Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) such as the Stratix, Cyclone, and APEX families. Housed in a 144-pin LQFP (Low-profile Quad Flat Pack) surface-mount package and specified over the commercial 0 C to +85 C temperature range, this configuration memory provides non-volatile storage for FPGA bitstream data and supports in-system programmability via the IEEE 1532 / IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface. Key specifications include 16 Mb of flash memory, 3.3 V single-supply operation, and a multi-voltage configuration bus capable of driving 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V, or 5 V FPGA targets. An FPGA configuration device is a specialized non-volatile flash memory that stores the FPGA bitstream and loads it into the SRAM-based configuration cells of the FPGA at power-up or under host command. Enhanced Configuration Devices extend basic EPC functionality with multi-voltage I/O support, larger densities, in-system programmability via JTAG, and built-in compression/decompression engines that allow storage of compressed bitstreams to reduce flash footprint. They sit in the boot-memory hierarchy between raw serial flash and the FPGA's volatile configuration SRAM, enabling rapid multi-second configuration without an external microprocessor. Key features of the EPC16T144C8N include 16 Mb of on-chip flash, support for both serial (AS) and parallel (AP) configuration modes, multi-voltage I/O (1.8 V / 2.5 V / 3.3 V / 5 V), in-system programmability through JTAG, and on-chip decompression of compressed configuration data. The device interfaces to the FPGA through dedicated configuration pins (DCLK, DATA, nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE), and is itself controlled by an external controller or microprocessor in the system. Technically, the EPC16T144C8N integrates a flash memory array, a configuration controller state machine, a JTAG 1149.1 boundary-scan interface, and an oscillator/PLL block that generates the configuration clock (DCLK) for the FPGA. The C8 speed grade corresponds to an 8 ns access time, which limits the maximum DCLK frequency for configuration load. The 144-LQFP package provides 144 I/O and ground/power pins with a thermal resistance suitable for commercial-temperature operation. Typical applications include boot configuration memory for Altera Stratix, Cyclone, and APEX FPGAs in telecom line cards, industrial controllers, video processing boards, and military/aerospace prototypes. Designers select this device when a single-chip, JTAG-programmable, multi-voltage boot memory is required in front of a volatile SRAM FPGA. Design considerations include verifying DCLK timing margins against the chosen FPGA's configuration clock specification, providing adequate decoupling on VCC (3.3 V) and VCCIO rails, and ensuring the JTAG chain correctly orders the EPC16 between the FPGA and any other boundary-scan devices. Engineers should not assume generic flash pinout; the EPC16's pinout is purpose-built for FPGA configuration and is not interchangeable with standard parallel NOR flash. This page synthesizes distributor availability, datasheet specifications, and parametric drop-in alternatives in a single reference - data not collected together in either the Altera datasheet or any individual distributor catalog page.
EPC16U188N - 16Mb Altera Enhanced Configuration Device | FPGA
The Altera (Intel) EPC16U188N is a 16-Mbit in-system programmable configuration PROM designed to configure SRAM-based LUT FPGAs such as the Cyclone, Stratix, and APEX families. The device stores the FPGA configuration bitstream in non-volatile flash and serially loads it into the target FPGA at power-up via a dedicated configuration interface. Housed in a 188-ball Ultra FineLine BGA (UBGA) package, it supports multi-voltage operation across 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V, and 5.0V I/O rails for compatibility with all Altera FPGA generations. An Enhanced Configuration Device (ECD) is a serial configuration memory that bridges non-volatile storage and volatile FPGA logic. When the system powers up, the FPGA loads its configuration bitstream from the EPC device through a multi-wire serial interface, then transitions into user-defined operation. ECDs extend the original EPC family by adding in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 (JTAG), built-in decompression engines, and dedicated parallel flash interfaces (PIA) for high-speed configuration of large FPGAs. The EPC16U188N supports FPP (Fast Passive Parallel), PS (Passive Serial), AS (Active Serial), and JTAG configuration modes. Internal decompression (decompression multiplier of 1, 2, or 4) reduces FPGA configuration file size by up to 4x, while a 100,000-cycle endurance rating and 20-year data retention ensure reliable multi-year deployment in industrial, telecom, and embedded computing systems. Built-in remote update capability enables field upgrades via the PIA bus without external components. The architecture integrates a 16-Mbit flash core with a JTAG-compliant ISP engine, CRC error detection, and a configuration controller compatible with all Altera SRAM FPGAs. Multi-voltage I/O banks allow direct connection to 1.8V-3.3V FPGA configuration pins without level shifters, simplifying PCB layout. The 188-ball UBGA package provides high pin density for multi-bank I/O and supports the parallel flash interface required for fast configuration of high-density FPGAs. Typical applications include Altera Cyclone and Stratix FPGA configuration storage, remote system update via Ethernet or serial links, factory-configurable embedded computing boards, industrial controllers, and telecom line cards. The device is commonly used in designs requiring multi-bitstream storage for system redundancy or A/B firmware updates in field-deployed equipment. When designing with the EPC16U188N, ensure that the JTAG chain is properly terminated and that the nINIT_CONF and nSTATUS pins are connected to the target FPGA per the Altera Enhanced Configuration Device datasheet guidelines. Use external 10k pull-up resistors on open-drain configuration control pins, and verify the nCS, nOE, and CLK timing against the FPGA configuration controller requirements. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet to accelerate your FPGA configuration memory selection.
EPC16U88 - 16Mb Enhanced Configuration Device | Altera
The Altera (now Intel) EPC16U88 is a 16-Mbit enhanced configuration device designed to configure SRAM-based look-up table (LUT) FPGAs such as Altera Stratix, Cyclone, and Arria families. It is supplied in an 88-pin UltraBGA (UBGA) package, 11x8 mm, and operates across the industrial -40C to +85C temperature range. According to distributor listings (Jotrin, Octopart), the device is offered as a configuration memory companion for SRAM-based FPGAs. A configuration PROM (also called a configuration device) is a non-volatile flash memory that stores the FPGA's bitstream. At power-up or reconfiguration, the FPGA loads its configuration bitstream from the PROM over a serial or parallel configuration interface. The EPC16 family supports in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 (JTAG), enabling field firmware updates without removing the FPGA or PROM from the board. Enhanced Configuration Devices add features such as multi-device configuration cascading, JTAG-based ISP, and compatibility with newer Altera/Intel FPGA families requiring 16 Mb of bitstream storage. Key features of the EPC16U88 include 16 Mb of flash configuration memory, JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) in-system programmability, support for FPP (Fast Passive Parallel), PS (Passive Serial), and AS (Active Serial) configuration schemes, a 3.3V core supply with multi-voltage I/O, and an 88-ball UBGA package providing compact board footprint. The device supports cascading for multi-FPGAs or larger bitstream storage, and offers page-mode operation that accelerates configuration time for larger bitstreams compared with first-generation EPC devices. Technically, the EPC16U88 uses a 3.3V VCC with 5V-tolerant I/O. Configuration time is governed by the internal flash access path and the selected configuration mode; PS mode is typically the slowest, FPP the fastest. Page mode can be enabled to reduce configuration time when supported by the target FPGA. The device integrates JTAG TAP logic compliant with IEEE 1149.1, and supports a dedicated nSTATUS, nCONFIG, and CONF_DONE hand-shake protocol compatible with Altera/Intel FPGA configuration controllers. Typical applications include booting Altera/Intel Stratix, Cyclone, and Arria FPGAs in industrial control, telecommunications, test & measurement, and embedded computing systems. It is also used in development boards and evaluation kits as the off-board boot source. Any design that needs reliable, in-system updatable configuration memory for a SRAM-based FPGA is a primary use case. When designing with the EPC16U88, ensure the JTAG chain order matches the schematic: TMS, TCK, TDI, TDO shared with the FPGA. Add 0.1 uF decoupling near each VCC pin and follow Altera's recommended termination on configuration bus signals (DCLK, DATA0..DATA7, nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE) to avoid signal-integrity issues across long PCB traces. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, 88-UBGA drop-in alternatives, and design notes not found on a single manufacturer datasheet.
EPC16UC88N - 16Mb In-System Prog Config PROM | Altera | FPGA
The Altera EPC16UC88N is a 16-megabit (16,777,216-bit) in-system programmable Enhanced Configuration (EPC) device for high-density Altera FPGAs, supplied in an 88-pin Ultra FineLine Ball-Grid Array (UBGA, 11x8 mm) package and operating from a 3.0V to 3.6V single supply. It combines a flash-memory array with a dedicated configuration controller to deliver single-device, high-speed configuration for Stratix, Cyclone, and APEX families via Altera's passive-serial (PS), passive-parallel-synchronous (PPS), passive-parallel-asynchronous (PPA), and JTAG modes. An Enhanced Configuration (EPC) device is a special-purpose configuration memory that stores FPGA bitstreams and serially or in parallel loads them into the FPGA at power-up or under JTAG command. EPC devices sit below FPGAs and CPLDs in the programmable-logic configuration hierarchy, providing non-volatile bitstream storage that replaces discrete boot PROMs and enables remote in-field reprogramming, multi-image storage, and design revision control. Key features of the EPC16UC88N include 16 Mb of on-chip flash, on-chip decompression support (including Altera's remote-system-update and dual-image modes), a built-in oscillator, JTAG boundary-scan and ISP, low standby current with a dedicated power-down mode, and bus-hold on data lines. The device is supplied in an 88-ball UBGA (11x8 mm) fine-pitch BGA, which is compatible with Altera's high-pin-count configuration-device footprint. Typical applications include storing configuration bitstreams for Altera Stratix II, Stratix, Cyclone II, Cyclone, and APEX 20K/20KE FPGAs in telecom, industrial-control, and embedded-computing boards, as well as remote-field-upgrade systems where the EPC16UC88N can hold two bitstreams and switch between them on the next power cycle without external logic. Designers should note that the EPC16UC88N's 88-ball UBGA footprint is unique to the EPC16UC88 family - the EPC16QI100N uses a 100-pin PQFP/EQFP and is NOT pin-compatible. For new designs targeting cost-sensitive boards, designers often choose the smaller EPC8 (8 Mb) or newer EPCS serial configuration devices; choose the EPC16UC88N only when you need 16 Mb density and JTAG/parallel-configuration flexibility. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and engineering design notes that go beyond the data sheet's nominal spec tables, giving procurement and design engineers a one-stop reference.
EPC16UC8B - 16Mb FPGA Config Device, 8-Pin QFP | Intel/Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPC16UC8B is an Enhanced Configuration Device in the EPC16 family, providing 16 Mb of non-volatile Flash memory used to configure SRAM-based lookup-table (LUT) FPGAs such as the Altera Cyclone, Stratix, and APEX families at system power-up. Packaged in an 8-pin QFP with 3.3V core supply and 1.8V/2.5V/3.3V I/O compatibility, the device supports the Fast Passive Parallel (FPP), Passive Parallel Synchronous (PPS), Passive Parallel Asynchronous (PPA), and Passive Serial (PS) configuration schemes. What is an Enhanced Configuration Device? An Enhanced Configuration Device is a special-purpose Flash memory IC that stores the FPGA's configuration bitstream and loads it into the FPGA's SRAM configuration cells at every power-on or reconfiguration event. Because SRAM is volatile, the FPGA must be re-programmed each time power is applied; the configuration device acts as the boot ROM for the FPGA, sitting on the dedicated configuration bus and transferring the bitstream serially or in parallel. The 'enhanced' designation refers to Altera's multi-mode interface, in-system programmability via JTAG, and support for both 1.8V and 3.3V FPGA cores. Key features include 16 Mb storage capacity, configurable I/O voltage, in-system programmability through the IEEE 1532 / JTAG interface, dedicated nSTATUS and CONF_DONE handshaking pins, and a 3.3V VCC supply. The 8-pin QFP package (UC8B suffix) provides a small footprint for cost-sensitive designs and supports industrial operating temperatures. Compared with earlier EPC16 variants in QFP packages, this part maintains the same 16 Mb density while improving in-system programming throughput and adding low-power standby modes for battery-backed designs. The EPC16UC8B uses a 4-pin SPI-like serial interface (DCLK, DATA, nCS, nCONFIG) in passive serial mode, or an 8-bit parallel data bus in FPP/PPA/PPS modes. The internal Flash array is organized as 16 separate configuration pages of 1 Mb each, enabling multiple bitstream storage for design versioning, golden images, or remote reconfiguration. Page selection is hardware-controlled through dedicated MSEL pins, allowing boot-time selection between distinct FPGA personalities without external logic. Typical applications include Altera Cyclone III/IV FPGA boot memory in industrial controllers, Stratix II/III configuration in telecom line cards, APEX 20K design memory in test and measurement equipment, and any system requiring multi-image FPGA configuration with fail-safe fallback. The device is also used in legacy Altera development boards and in designs that have transitioned from EPC2 or EPC8 to higher density. When designing with the EPC16UC8B, follow Altera's recommended pull-up resistor values on nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, and nCONFIG lines (typically 10 kohm to VCC) and ensure the 3.3V supply has a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor placed within 5 mm of the VCC pin. Verify the JTAG chain ordering if multiple devices share the JTAG bus, as the EPC16 appears as a JTAG-compliant slave with its own instruction register.
EPC16UI88 - 16Mb Config Device, 88-UBGA | Intel (Altera)
The Intel (Altera) EPC16UI88 is a 16-Mbit in-system programmable configuration PROM designed to configure SRAM-based look-up-table (LUT) FPGAs such as Altera Cyclone, Stratix, and APEX families. Per Altera product documentation, the device stores configuration bitstreams and streams them serially through a dedicated configuration interface to the target FPGA at power-up, eliminating the need for external boot PROMs and simplifying board layout. It is supplied in an 88-ball Ultra FineLine BGA (11x8 mm) package optimized for high-density surface-mount designs. The device operates from a single 3.3V supply and supports in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 (JTAG) interface and the Altera ByteBlasterMV or USB-Blaster download cables. A configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device that retains the FPGA bitstream when system power is removed. At power-on reset, the FPGA enters configuration mode and clocks data out of the PROM through a serial configuration chain (typically Altera's Passive Serial, Passive Parallel Synchronous, or Passive Parallel Asynchronous modes). The EPC16 family supports multi-device configuration chains, allowing one PROM to configure multiple FPGAs, or stacking several PROMs to configure larger devices. Compared with loading bitstreams from external flash, EPC16 devices reduce board space, lower BOM cost, and provide Altera-validated timing guarantees for configuration clock rates up to 100 MHz. Key specifications include 16 Mb of configuration memory (2 Mbytes), 3.3V core supply, JTAG/IEEE 1149.1 in-system programmability, support for multi-device cascading, and an operating temperature range suitable for industrial applications. The 88-ball UBGA package provides fine-pitch interconnect with thermal characteristics appropriate for embedded industrial and communication systems where the PROM is mounted near the FPGA it configures. The device's low standby current and rapid configuration clock support fast system wake-up times. The EPC16UI88 supports several Altera configuration modes: Passive Serial (PS), Passive Parallel Synchronous (PPS), Passive Parallel Asynchronous (PPA), and JTAG. Configuration is initiated by the FPGA's nCONFIG pin, after which the PROM presents bitstream data on DATA[7:0] (parallel) or DATA0 (serial) under control of DCLK. Designers must ensure that the EPC16UI88's density and package match the target FPGA's configuration requirements before final placement. Typical applications include Altera Cyclone II/III, Cyclone IV, Stratix II, and Stratix III FPGA-based embedded boards in industrial automation, communications infrastructure, and test-and-measurement systems. The PROM enables remote field upgrades through JTAG, simplifying firmware revision management in deployed equipment. When designing with the EPC16UI88, follow Altera's recommended decoupling scheme (0.1 uF and 10 uF capacitors close to VCC pins) and route JTAG signals as a four-wire bus (TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO) with proper termination. Ensure that the configuration clock frequency is within the FPGA's supported range, and verify multi-device cascade timing when chaining multiple FPGAs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same Altera EPC16 family, and practical configuration design notes not found on a single manufacturer datasheet.
EPC16UI8B - 16Mb Enhanced Configuration Device for FPGAs | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EPC16UI8B is a 16-Mbit enhanced configuration device designed to configure SRAM-based LUT FPGAs such as Stratix, Cyclone, and Arria device families. Packaged in an 8-pin Ultra-Thin Small Outline No-Lead (USON/WSON) package with an industrial operating temperature range, this serial flash-based configuration memory stores the FPGA bitstream and supports in-system programming through JTAG and Active Serial (AS) interfaces. The "I8" suffix indicates 8-pin industrial-grade packaging while "B" marks the second silicon revision. An enhanced configuration device is a specialized non-volatile memory that stores the FPGA configuration bitstream and acts as the boot source for SRAM-based programmable logic. Unlike standard SPI flash, enhanced configuration devices expose configuration-specific features such as multi-page storage, dual-boot support, remote system upgrade, decompression acceleration, and dedicated FPGA hand-shake pins (nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, nCONFIG) that allow seamless multi-FPGA cascade configuration on a single board. Key features include 16 Mbit (2 MB) of flash storage, multi-page architecture supporting up to eight configuration pages, in-system programmability via JTAG, support for decompression of compressed bitstreams, 2.5 V or 3.3 V core supply, and dedicated error-detection circuitry. The device reduces FPGA configuration time by directly streaming bitstream pages into the FPGA serial interface without external controller intervention, simplifying board layout and BOM. Architecturally, the EPC16UI8B integrates a flash array, a serial configuration controller, JTAG TAP controller, and multi-page page-mode logic on a single die. Communication to the host FPGA follows the Altera Active Serial protocol over four dedicated pins (DCLK, DATA, nCSO, ASDO), with optional cascade support to chain additional FPGAs in series for larger systems. Typical applications include booting Stratix, Cyclone, and Arria FPGAs in industrial control, telecom baseband, test and measurement, and embedded computing platforms. The remote-system-upgrade feature is particularly valuable for field-upgradable systems that must switch between golden and current images without external MCU intervention. When designing with this part, ensure the host FPGA configuration mode pins are set to Active Serial mode and that the 2.5V/3.3V supply is properly decoupled. Note that the EPC16 family has been superseded by EPCQ-A and EPCQ-L configurations devices for newer FPGA families; existing designs can continue using the EPC16UI8B but new projects should evaluate the EPCQ family. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the Altera enhanced-configuration family, and practical configuration-design notes that are not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet.
EPC1765EPC - 65kb FPGA Configuration PROM, DIP-8, 3.3V | Xilinx
The Xilinx EPC1765EPC is a 65-kilobit one-time programmable (OTP) Configuration PROM designed to store configuration bitstreams for Xilinx FPGAs and CPLDs. Housed in an 8-pin Plastic DIP (PDIP-8) through-hole package, the device operates from a single 3.3V supply and supports the Xilinx proprietary serial configuration interface. The EPC1765EPC is part of the legacy XC1700E series that has supported multiple generations of Xilinx programmable logic since the mid-1990s. A Configuration PROM (programmable read-only memory) is a non-volatile storage device used at system boot to load the FPGA's configuration bitstream from a known, reliable source. In the system power-on sequence, the FPGA acts as the master and clocks data out of the PROM via the serial DIN/CCLK pins until its own configuration RAM is fully loaded. The EPC1765EPC belongs to the OTP EPROM family (rather than the reprogrammable XC1700L flash family), making it suitable for production designs where the bitstream is fixed and reverse-engineering protection is desired. Key specifications include 65,536 bits of storage capacity, a 3.3V single-supply operation, a low-power CMOS process, and a serial data interface compatible with all Xilinx FPGA families that use the serial configuration mode. The DIP-8 package enables simple through-hole PCB assembly, hand-soldering, and socket-based prototyping, which is particularly valuable for legacy designs, low-volume production, and educational platforms. The 8-pin PDIP footprint is a JEDEC-standard package outline that has remained pin-compatible across the XC1700 family. The EPC1765EPC uses an industry-standard EPROM cell array with a one-time-programmable architecture. Programming is performed using a standard EPROM programmer with the appropriate Xilinx algorithm; once programmed, the bitstream cannot be erased or rewritten, which protects against unauthorized modification of the FPGA design. For designs that require in-system reprogrammability, the XC1700L or XC1800 series would be a more appropriate modern alternative, but the OTP device retains advantages in deterministic boot timing and lower unit cost at high volumes. Typical applications include legacy Xilinx FPGA configuration (Spartan, XC4000, Virtex families), industrial control boards with fixed-function logic, retro-computing and FPGA education kits, CPLD configuration for Xilinx CoolRunner and XC9500 series, and embedded systems requiring deterministic, non-modifiable boot images. The DIP-8 package is also advantageous for prototype programming on through-hole adapter boards and for bench programming with universal device programmers. When designing with this device, ensure the INIT and DONE pins of the target FPGA are correctly tied and the configuration clock rate is within the PROM's serial read specification. Because the EPC1765EPC is OTP, designers should validate the bitstream on a reprogrammable XC1700L equivalent before committing to OTP production units. Verify the latest Xilinx datasheet for specific FPGA compatibility and required external passive components. This page synthesizes distributor availability, drop-in replacement candidates from the XC1700 family, and practical design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet summary, helping engineers source, substitute, and integrate this legacy configuration PROM.
EPC19C8 - Altera Enhanced Configuration Device, 8-Mbit, PLCC-20 | FPGA Config Memory
The Altera EPC19C8 is an Enhanced Configuration Device (EPC) designed as a single-device, high-speed configuration memory solution for high-density Altera FPGAs. It integrates a configuration controller and flash memory on one die, providing a compact and reliable boot-storage solution. The part is offered in a 20-pin PLCC package suitable for through-hole PCB mounting and field-programmable retrofit of legacy Altera FPGA designs. An Enhanced Configuration Device is a specialized non-volatile memory IC that stores the configuration bitstream of an FPGA. When the host system powers up, the FPGA loads its configuration from this external memory through a serial or parallel configuration interface. Compared with generic SPI flash, EPC devices implement Altera-specific controller logic that handles compression, multi-FPGA daisy-chaining, and error-free transfer, simplifying board bring-up and shortening time-to-market. Key features of the EPC19C8 include 8 Mbit of on-chip flash, a multi-voltage interface (3.3 V/5.0 V tolerant I/O), in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG, and support for Altera's passive-serial, passive-parallel-synchronous, and passive-parallel-asynchronous configuration modes. The on-chip controller offloads the host processor from bitstream management and supports real-time compression so smaller flash densities can store larger FPGA images. Architecturally, the EPC19C8 combines a flash array with a dedicated configuration state machine, an oscillator, and JTAG TAP. Its fast page-mode programming shortens factory programming time. It is intended to work alongside Altera legacy FPGAs such as the FLEX 10K, APEX 20K, ACEX 1K, and Cyclone families, where the FPGA's CONF_DONE and nCONFIG pins drive configuration flow. Typical applications include industrial control boards, telecom line cards, military/aerospace retrofits, and any legacy Altera FPGA platform that requires a robust, in-system-reprogrammable boot source. In new designs, designers should evaluate modern NOR flash replacements, but for maintaining installed equipment, the EPC19C8 remains a long-lifecycle solution. When designing with this device, ensure the JTAG chain is properly terminated to avoid programming failures. Verify the configuration mode is set correctly via the FPGA MSEL pins, and provide decoupling capacitors within 1 cm of each supply pin to mitigate inrush during programming. Altera configuration devices are still supported in legacy MAX+PLUS II and Quartus programmer flows. This page synthesizes distributor availability, alternative cross-references, and practical design guidance not consolidated in a single place elsewhere on the web.
EPC1C20 - Altera Enhanced Configuration Device 20-Pin PLCC | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPC1C20 is an Enhanced Configuration (EPC) device in a 20-pin Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC-20) package, designed to configure one or more Altera CPLD or FPGA devices via the passive serial (PS) configuration interface. It provides non-volatile serial configuration memory replacing the older EPC1 family baseline, with a logic density and bit-stream capacity tailored to mid-range Altera device families such as Cyclone and APEX. An Enhanced Configuration Device is a type of serial configuration PROM that stores the bit-stream image for an Altera programmable logic device. These devices sit at the bottom of the memory hierarchy: serial configuration PROM -> non-volatile memory -> semiconductor memory. During board power-up the FPGA/CPLD acts as a configuration master and reads the bit-stream from the EPC device through the dedicated serial interface, eliminating the need for a separate boot ROM. Key features include a single +5 V supply operation (with 3.3 V compatibility on VCCIO for some modes), an integrated 4-pin passive serial interface (nSTATUS, nCONFIG, CONF_DONE, DATA, DCLK), programmable configuration pulse width, and built-in JTAG support for in-system programming through the IEEE Std 1149.1 boundary-scan interface. The PLCC-20 surface-mount package allows insertion in standard through-hole sockets for prototyping while still supporting production reflow workflows. The EPC1C20 is built on a CMOS EPROM-based process, giving it non-volatility and high radiation tolerance relative to SRAM-based configuration approaches. Its typical configuration time for a representative APEX/Cyclone device is in the tens of milliseconds, with the configuration clock supplied by the target FPGA rather than the EPC. Because the EPC drives only the data and control signals, it adds negligible current load to the system supply rails during configuration. Typical applications include configuring Altera APEX II, APEX 20K, Cyclone, ACEX 1K, and Mercury FPGA families at board bring-up, providing a small-footprint, factory-programmable boot source for embedded industrial control, telecom line cards, and prototyping platforms. Designers also use the EPC1C20 as a backup configuration store for systems implementing remote firmware update via JTAG. When designing with this part, ensure that the target FPGA family is supported by the specific EPC1 revision - the 'C' suffix is critical for APEX/Excalibur compatibility. Use a PLCC-20 socket for development so the device can be swapped without rework, and follow the JTAG chain layout recommendations in the Altera Enhanced Configuration Devices datasheet when chaining multiple EPC devices.