FPGA & CPLD
Products (6352)
EPF10K50EQC240-2N - FLEX 10KE FPGA 50K Gates 240-PQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EPF10K50EQC240-2N is a member of the FLEX 10KE family of embedded programmable logic devices, integrating 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements (LEs) and 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs) into a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP / BFQFP) package. According to the Altera datasheet, the device is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process, operates from a 2.5 V internal supply, and offers 189 user I/Os with 40,960 bits of embedded SRAM. It is rated for the commercial temperature range of 0 °C to 70 °C and supports in-circuit reconfigurability via JTAG or external configuration devices. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of integrated circuit containing an array of programmable logic blocks, configurable interconnects, and embedded memory that can be customized after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital logic. FPGAs sit in the broader programmable-logic hierarchy between simple PLDs (CPLDs) and fixed-function ASICs, and are widely used for glue logic, prototyping, DSP front-ends, and small-to-medium gate-count glue replacement. The FLEX 10KE family was Altera's first embedded-array family offering megafunction-class memory alongside general-purpose logic, enabling System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration. Key features of the EPF10K50EQC240-2N include its 50K-gate logic capacity, 0.22 µm process node, 200 MHz internal performance, dedicated clock-distribution trees with low skew, pull-up resistors on I/O pins during configuration, and PCI-SIG compliance. The device supports multi-volt I/O interfacing with 5.0 V, 3.3 V and 2.5 V environments through programmable I/O standards, which is critical when bridging legacy and modern logic families on the same board. Architecturally, the FLEX 10KE combines a fine-grained Look-Up Table (LUT) based logic fabric with embedded array blocks (EABs) used to implement RAM, ROM, multiplier, or state-machine megafunctions. The 2,880 LEs are arranged into 360 LABs of 8 LEs each, and the four EABs supply the 40,960 bits of SRAM (equivalent to 5,120 bytes) that can be configured as single-port RAM, dual-port RAM, ROM, or content-addressable memory. Typical applications include industrial control and factory-automation boards, telecommunications glue logic and channel cards, military/aerospace ruggedized controllers, prototyping for ASIC replacement, and PCI bus interface cards. The 240-pin PQFP footprint remains convenient for hand-rework and prototype builds where a BGA would be impractical. When designing with the EPF10K50EQC240-2N, plan I/O bank assignment carefully because the 2.5 V core and multi-voltage I/O require separate power rails (VCCINT and VCCIO), and unused pins must be left floating or driven to a defined state after configuration. Configuration storage should use an Altera EPC-series configuration PROM or JTAG download cable. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, lifecycle status, drop-in alternatives from the Site MPN list, and practical design notes not consolidated on a single manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a faster path to a sourcing decision for legacy FLEX 10KE designs.
EPF10K50EQC240-3 - FLEX 10KE FPGA, 50K Gates, 240-PQFP | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EPF10K50EQC240-3 is a FLEX 10KE family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) IC with 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, and 189 maximum user I/Os, fabricated on a 0.22 um CMOS process and supplied from a 2.5 V core rail. The -3 speed grade corresponds to a 166.67 MHz internal frequency and 0.6 ns propagation delay, packaged in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP) with gull-wing leads. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor IC belonging to the broader class of programmable logic devices (PLDs). Within the device taxonomy hierarchy, an FPGA sits above simple PLDs/CPLDs and below fixed-function ASICs, occupying the system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) tier that combines dense logic, embedded array blocks, and user-configurable I/O. The FLEX 10KE family is one of Altera's earliest embedded PLD families, providing the first true SOPC integration with dedicated embedded array blocks alongside the logic array for implementing RAM, ROM, and FIFO functions directly in silicon. Key features include 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 40,960 typical bits of embedded memory, multi-voltage I/O support (2.5 V/3.3 V/5 V tolerant), in-system programmability via the serial configuration EPROM interface, and 0 to 70 C commercial temperature grading. The PQFP-240 package with 32 mm x 32 mm body and 0.5 mm lead pitch supports through-hole-compatible surface mounting and is one of the largest FQFP footprints offered in this generation. Typical applications span legacy industrial glue logic, parallel bus interfacing (ISA/PCI bridges), telecommunications line cards, military/aerospace retrofit programs, and prototyping platforms where the FLEX 10KE's embedded array blocks replace discrete FIFO/RAM chips. The part is widely used in legacy designs from the late 1990s and is now primarily sourced through the secondary market, as Altera (now Intel FPGA) has shifted focus to Cyclone and Stratix families. When designing with EPF10K50EQC240-3, ensure proper power sequencing: VCCINT (2.5 V core) must reach regulation before VCCIO banks drive outputs. Use the MAX+PLUS II or Quartus design tools for synthesis; older MAX+PLUS II projects import into modern Quartus with legacy device support. The PQFP-240 footprint requires substantial PCB real estate (roughly 32 mm x 32 mm plus lead clearance), so plan mechanical stack-up accordingly. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in pin-compatible alternatives, and practical obsolescence-management notes not found in the original manufacturer datasheet.
EPF10K50EQC240-3N - FLEX 10KE FPGA 50K Gates 240-PQFP | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EPF10K50EQC240-3N is a member of the FLEX 10KE family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements, and 360 logic array blocks (LABs) in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP) package. Operating at a core voltage of 2.5 V with a 0.22 µm CMOS SRAM process, this device is rated for the commercial temperature range and supports 189 user I/Os, making it suitable for glue-logic, bus-interface, and mid-complexity state-machine designs. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs/LABs) connected by a programmable interconnect matrix. FPGAs are a category of programmable logic devices (PLDs) within the broader semiconductor hierarchy, sitting alongside CPLDs and complex logic devices, and they are typically used when design iteration speed, parallel processing, or high I/O count outweighs the per-unit cost of an ASIC. FPGAs are commonly used in prototyping, telecommunications, industrial control, and test equipment, where the same silicon can be reconfigured for many different applications. The EPF10K50EQC240-3N integrates 40,960 bits of embedded SRAM distributed across the logic fabric, providing flexible on-chip memory for FIFO buffers, register files, and look-up tables. It supports in-system programmability via an external configuration device (such as an EPC2 or EPC8) or via JTAG, allowing field upgrades and design iteration without removing the part from the board. The -3 speed grade is the fastest commercial grade offered on the FLEX 10KE family at 240-pin PQFP, delivering higher Fmax on internal paths compared to the -2 and -1 grades. Architecturally, the FLEX 10KE family employs a continuous, hierarchical interconnect structure (FastTrack) and an embedded array block (EAB) system, giving designers the ability to implement both fine-grained logic and dedicated memory/ROM functions. The device supports multi-volt I/O operation, allowing 5.0 V, 3.3 V, and 2.5 V interfaces on the same die through bank-based VCCIO configuration. The 240-pin PQFP package provides 189 usable user I/Os after power, ground, JTAG, and configuration pins are reserved. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation controllers, telecommunications line cards and bus bridges, test and measurement instrumentation, legacy system prototyping, and embedded control logic in printers, copiers, and medical instrumentation. Its 50K-gate capacity is well-matched to designs that outgrow a CPLD but do not require a modern high-density FPGA. When designing with the EPF10K50EQC240-3N, engineers should pay close attention to I/O banking: each bank must be supplied with a single VCCIO voltage, and 5 V-tolerant inputs require a 3.3 V VCCIO on the relevant bank. Configuration mode (AS, AP, PS, JTAG) must be selected via MSEL pins at power-up. The 240-pin PQFP has a 32.1 mm × 32.1 mm body size, so PCB real estate and via-in-pad compatibility should be considered early in layout. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-package drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes for engineers maintaining legacy FLEX 10KE designs - information that the original Altera datasheet alone does not consolidate.
EPF10K50EQI240-2N - 50K-Gate FLEX 10KE FPGA, 240 PQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50EQI240-2N is a 50,000-gate FLEX 10KE family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) IC with 2880 logic elements and 40,960 RAM bits, housed in a 240-pin Power Quad Flat Pack (PQFP / BQFP) surface-mount package. It provides 189 user I/O pins, 360 LABs/CLBs, and operates from a 2.5 V core supply at a maximum internal frequency of 66.67 MHz (200 MHz FMax marketing speed grade -2) using 0.22 µm CMOS technology. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that combines the high density of gate arrays with on-the-field reconfigurability, sitting at the top of the programmable logic hierarchy: PLD -> CPLD -> FPGA. The FLEX 10KE family was one of the first to integrate embedded array blocks (EABs) for implementing megafunctions such as efficient memory and specialized logic functions, providing System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration with up to 50K ASIC-equivalent gates and up to 24,576 RAM bits (configurable in different widths). Key features include 199,000 maximum system gates, industrial operating temperature grade (-40 °C to +85 °C), SRAM-based configuration cells, propagation delay of 0.6 ns per logic element, and MultiVolt I/O supporting mixed-voltage interfacing. The device is built on a 0.22 µm CMOS SRAM process with four input lookup tables (LUTs) and embedded array blocks for true dual-port RAM, FIFO, and CAM functions. Its 240-pin PQFP footprint offers PCB-friendly gull-wing leads that are easier to inspect and rework than fine-pitch BGAs, making it well-suited for legacy industrial designs. Typical applications include industrial control and automation, telecom line cards, glue logic replacement, DSP co-processing front-ends, prototyping for ASIC migration, and legacy communication infrastructure where a hot-swappable logic platform is needed. Because it is SRAM-based and obsolete (EOL), designers often pair it with a configuration PROM (EPC) for production. Design considerations: the EPF10K50EQI240-2N is obsolete and may face allocation constraints; consider a Cyclone or MAX series modern equivalent for new designs. Always place decoupling capacitors within 100 mils of every VCCINT/VCCIO pair and route JTAG signals with 4-6 mil traces kept away from switching edges.
EPF10K50ETC144-1 - FLEX 10KE FPGA 50K Gates 144-LQFP | Intel
The Intel EPF10K50ETC144-1 is a member of the FLEX 10KE family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), providing 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements (LEs), and 40,960 bits of embedded memory in a 144-pin LQFP (TQFP) surface-mount package. It offers 102 user I/O pins, 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and operates from a 2.5 V core supply with 66.67 MHz internal performance. The device is fabricated on a CMOS process and supports commercial temperature grade (0 °C to +70 °C). An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be configured by the customer or designer after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital logic functions. FPGAs belong to the broader category of programmable logic devices (PLDs), which sit between fixed-function ASICs and software-programmable processors in the digital design hierarchy. Within that taxonomy: FPGA -> PLD -> programmable logic -> digital IC -> integrated circuit -> semiconductor. The FLEX 10KE family in particular introduced embedded array blocks (EABs) that function as on-chip RAM or ROM, pioneering the System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration concept. Key features of the EPF10K50ETC144-1 include 360 LABs for fine-grained logic implementation, 2,880 LEs providing roughly 50K usable gates, and 40,960 RAM bits distributed across embedded array blocks. The 144-pin LQFP package supports 102 user I/Os, while the CMOS process technology keeps quiescent power low. Pin migration is supported within the FLEX 10KE family via SameFrame compatibility, allowing designers to scale density without re-laying out the PCB. Architecturally, the FLEX 10KE family combines a fine-grained LUT-based logic fabric with coarse-grained EABs that can be configured as 4 Kbit memory blocks with parity or as product-term logic. This hybrid approach makes the device well suited to designs that mix control logic with moderate on-chip data storage. MultiVolt I/O supports interfacing to 5.0 V, 3.3 V, and 2.5 V logic families, simplifying mixed-voltage system integration. Typical applications include industrial control logic, telecommunications glue logic, custom interface bridges, and legacy system prototyping where the FLEX 10KE is a long-qualified platform. The 50K-gate density positions it for moderate-complexity designs such as state machines, peripheral controllers, and PCI bus bridges that have been in production for years. When designing with this part, engineers should note that the device is mature and only available from distributors as legacy stock. Reference designs and Quartus II tool support must be obtained from the archived Altera documentation. Plan for long lead times on obsolete variants and verify pin migration compatibility before substituting other FLEX 10KE devices. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives drawn from the same FLEX 10KE family, and practical design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EPF10K50ETC144-3 - FLEX 10KE 50K Gates 144-TQFP FPGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50ETC144-3 is a member of the FLEX 10KE family of embedded programmable logic devices (PLDs), providing System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration with 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, 40,960 bits of embedded memory, and 360 LABs/CLBs in a 144-pin TQFP (also referenced as TQFP-144) surface-mount package. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a reconfigurable integrated circuit whose logic fabric, interconnect, and I/O cells are defined by a user-supplied bitstream after manufacture. FPGAs sit within the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) - alongside CPLDs, PALs, and GALs - and represent the highest-density, highest-performance tier used for glue logic, custom DSP, ASIC prototyping, and full system integration. The FLEX 10KE family pioneered embedded-array architecture, combining look-up-table based logic with embedded memory blocks and Embeddable Logic Array Blocks (EABs) to deliver a System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration platform that pre-dated modern SoC FPGAs. Key features include 102 user I/O pins (274 maximum in the family), 0.22 µm CMOS process technology, 166.67 MHz maximum internal frequency, 0.6 ns propagation delay, 2.5 V core supply, and SameFrame pin compatibility across the FLEX 10KE family for design migration. The device is offered in the commercial 0 °C to +70 °C operating range and supports in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary-scan interface and the Altera serial configuration scheme. The EPF10K50ETC144-3 is built on a 0.22 µm four-metal-layer CMOS process, with 3.3 V tolerant I/O banks supporting LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and other common interface standards of its generation. Its SRAM-based configuration memory allows unlimited reconfiguration but requires a configuration PROM or microcontroller to load the bitstream at power-up. The -3 speed grade corresponds to a faster device-bin than the -4 grade, enabling higher Fmax for clocked logic paths. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial control and glue logic, legacy ASIC prototyping, custom DSP datapaths, and test-and-measurement front-ends. Designers value the FLEX 10KE family for deterministic pin-to-pin timing and abundant memory for small to medium-density designs where modern FPGA tools would be overkill. The 144-pin TQFP package also makes the part hand-solderable for prototyping. When designing with this part, note that the SRAM configuration cells must be loaded from a serial or parallel PROM on every power-up; plan a configuration clock source and ensure all unused I/O pins are configured as inputs with weak pull-ups to avoid floating-input quiescent current. The SameFrame pin migration path is supported only with the 484-pin FineLine BGA package, so TQFP-144 designs are not directly migratable to higher I/O-count packages without board rework. This page synthesizes distributor pricing from DigiKey and Mouser, drop-in alternatives within the FLEX 10KE family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet - all cross-referenced against XAIPART's internal FLEX 10K part database.
EPF10K50ETI144-2 - 50K Gates FLEX 10KE FPGA, 144-LQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50ETI144-2 is a member of the FLEX 10KE embedded programmable logic device family, delivering 50,000 typical gates (199,000 maximum system gates), 2,880 logic elements (LEs), and 40,960 bits of embedded RAM in a 144-pin LQFP (TQFP) package. It operates at a core voltage of 2.5 V on a 0.22 µm SRAM-based process, with a maximum internal operating frequency of 200 MHz. The device includes 10 embedded array blocks (EABs), 360 logic array blocks (LABs), and provides 102 user I/O pins on this TQFP-144 footprint, with up to 254 user I/Os available on larger FineLine BGA packages of the same family. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a reconfigurable semiconductor whose logic function is defined after manufacture by loading a configuration bitstream into on-chip SRAM. Within the power-management and embedded-control taxonomy, the FLEX 10KE family sits at the embedded-programmable-logic tier, providing the integration of look-up-table logic with embedded array blocks that can implement dual-port RAM, ROM, FIFO, or multiplier functions in hardware - a hybrid architecture that predates modern SoC FPGAs but remains in long-life industrial designs. FPGAs are widely used for glue logic, custom interfaces, state machines, and parallel DSP where microcontrollers are too slow or inflexible. Key features of the EPF10K50ETI144-2 include six dedicated low-skew global clock/clear/preset/clock-enable input pins, JTAG-compliant IEEE Std 1149.1 boundary-scan test support, in-system programmability via the Serial Passive or JTAG configuration scheme, and multi-volt I/O compatibility that lets the device interface with 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and 5 V systems. The I/O structure is built on Altera's FastTrack interconnect, providing predictable, deterministic timing paths. Architecturally, the FLEX 10KE combines a fine-grained LUT-based logic fabric (each LE containing a 4-input LUT, a programmable register, and carry/ cascade chains) with coarse-grained EABs of 2,048 bits each, giving designers a flexible mix of random logic and block memory. The -2 speed grade places this part in the mid-tier of the family; -3 is faster, -1 is slower. Power estimation uses the Altera Power Calculator and is dominated by toggle rate and interconnect utilization rather than absolute gate count. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation backplanes, telecommunications line cards and DSLAMs, military/aerospace retrofits requiring long-life programmable logic, test and measurement instrumentation, and legacy medical-imaging interfaces. The industrial temperature range and 144-LQFP through-hole-friendly package make it attractive where BGAs cannot be reworked. Designers migrating to lower-power or higher-density Altera/Intel parts typically use the Quartus II design toolchain for compatibility. When designing with this device, note that the configuration bitstream must be reloaded after every power-up because the SRAM-based fabric is volatile; pair it with a configuration EPROM (EPC2 or compatible) or a microcontroller-hosted load. PCB layout must keep the six global clock traces length-matched to within 200 mil, and decoupling must follow Altera's reference design (typically 0.1 µF + 10 µF per VCCINT/VCCIO plane). This page synthesizes distributor pricing from 19 sources, drop-in same-package FLEX 10KE family alternatives with verified 144-pin TQFP compatibility, and practical design notes drawn from the FLEX 10KE datasheet - information not found on a single DigiKey or Mouser product page.
EPF10K50GC403-3 - FLEX 10K 50K Gates FPGA | Altera
The Altera EPF10K50GC403-3 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of embedded programmable logic devices (PLDs), providing 50,000 typical gates and 2,880 logic elements (cells) in a 403-pin Ceramic Pin Grid Array (CPGA) package. It is fabricated on a 0.42 µm CMOS process, operates from a 5 V supply, supports configurable I/O standards of 3.3 V or 5 V, and is rated for a maximum internal clock frequency of 125 MHz. A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be electrically reconfigured by the customer after manufacture to implement arbitrary digital logic. The FLEX 10K family was the industry's first family of PLDs to provide System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration by combining a logic array block (LAB) fabric with embedded array blocks (EABs) that implement megafunctions such as efficient memory and specialized logic functions. In the broader taxonomy, this places FLEX 10K as a SRAM-based FPGA, sitting between standard PLDs (CPLDs) and high-end SoC FPGAs in terms of density, embedded memory, and I/O capability. Key features include 2,880 logic elements distributed across logic array blocks, embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory and arithmetic megafunctions, JTAG-based IEEE Std 1149.1 boundary-scan test support, and configurable I/O buffers that support 3.3 V or 5 V signaling levels. The speed grade -3 indicates the commercial operating speed bin of the FLEX 10K family. MultiVolt I/O allows the part to bridge between 3.3 V peripherals and a 5 V backplane in mixed-voltage systems. The FLEX 10K architecture separates logic implementation (via LABs) from dedicated memory/ALU functions (via EABs). Each EAB can be configured as RAM, ROM, or a multiplier; together with the LAB fabric this enables efficient glue-logic, glue-memory, and glue-arithmetic integration. The 403-pin CPGA package provides a high pin count suited to large user I/O fan-out, required for high gate-count designs in industrial control, telecommunications, and test equipment. Typical applications include industrial control logic, telecommunications line-card glue logic, ASIC prototyping, PCI bus interface bridges, and test and measurement instrumentation. The 5 V I/O compatibility is especially useful for legacy backplane designs where 3.3 V-only FPGAs are not drop-in compatible. When designing with this part, verify that your CAD flow supports the MAX+PLUS II or Quartus development environment for FLEX 10K devices, and that the configuration device (e.g., EPC2 or EPC8) chosen for your design is pin-compatible with the 403-pin CPGA variant. Note that the FLEX 10K family is mature/end-of-life; new designs should consider Cyclone or MAX families. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-family Altera alternatives, and practical FPGA design notes that complement the FLEX 10K datasheet for engineers maintaining or replicating legacy designs.
EPF10K50GC403-4 - FLEX 10KA FPGA, 50K Gates, 403-Pin CPGA | Altera
The Altera EPF10K50GC403-4 is a member of the FLEX 10KA embedded programmable logic device family, delivering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements, and a maximum internal clock frequency of 125 MHz in a 403-pin Ceramic Pin Grid Array (CPGA) package. It operates from a 5 V supply (4.75 V to 5.25 V) using 0.42 µm CMOS SRAM technology and supports configurable I/O standards of 3.3 V or 5 V. The device is specified for a -4 speed grade, providing predictable timing closure for industrial, telecom, and embedded computing applications. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and I/O cells that can be re-programmed to implement arbitrary digital logic. Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, an FPGA is a type of programmable logic device (PLD), itself a sub-category of digital logic ICs and ultimately a member of integrated circuits used for digital computation and signal processing. The FLEX 10KA family was the industry's first family to deliver System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration, combining embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory and specialized megafunctions with general-purpose logic. Key features include 20 embedded array blocks (EABs) for implementing efficient memory and specialized logic functions, multiVolt I/O supporting 3.3 V and 5 V interfaces, JTAG boundary-scan testing per IEEE 1149.1, and in-system programmability via the built-in SRAM configuration memory. The device's SRAM-based configuration allows unlimited re-programming in the field, making it suitable for prototyping, hardware emulation, and design revisions late in the product lifecycle. It is fully supported by the Altera MAX+PLUS II and Quartus design flows, with comprehensive synthesis, simulation, and timing-analysis tool support. The architecture combines a logic array, embedded array, and fast interconnect network. The embedded array is implemented by EABs that can be configured as ROM, RAM, dual-port RAM, or first-in-first-out (FIFO) buffers, providing megafunctions such as multipliers, microcontrollers, and DSP primitives. The logic array implements general combinatorial and sequential logic. FastTrack interconnect provides predictable, low-skew routing for high-fanout nets and clock distribution. Typical applications include glue logic replacement, custom interface bridging (PCI, ISA, UART, I2C, SPI), telecom line-card controllers, industrial control and automation logic, prototyping for ASIC designs, and embedded DSP co-processing. The 403-pin CPGA package is chosen for applications requiring high pin count and reliable through-hole soldering, including legacy industrial systems, military, and aerospace platforms where ceramic packaging offers superior hermeticity and thermal performance. When designing with this device, ensure that the configuration scheme (EPC, microcontroller, or JTAG) is provisioned in the board design and that the JTAG chain order is documented for boundary-scan testing. For new designs, engineers should evaluate the migration path to the Altera Cyclone series, which offers higher logic density, lower power, and modern package options at significantly lower cost. This page synthesizes distributor availability, drop-in alternatives from the FLEX 10K family, and practical design notes not collected in the original FLEX 10KA datasheet.
EPF10K50RC240-3 - 50K Flex 10K FPGA, 189 I/O, 240-RQFP | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EPF10K50RC240-3 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) delivering 50,000 usable gates and 2,880 logic cells in a 240-pin RQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack with Exposed Pad) package. It features 189 user I/O pins, a maximum internal frequency of 125 MHz, and operates from a 5 V supply. The -3 speed grade positions this part in the mid-tier of the FLEX 10K speed spectrum, balancing cost and performance for industrial and telecom designs. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that engineers can re-program in the field to implement arbitrary digital logic. FPGAs sit hierarchically between simple PLDs/CPLDs (gates in the tens-to-thousands) and ASICs (application-specific, non-programmable), and the FLEX 10K family was among the first commercially successful families to combine look-up-table (LUT) logic with embedded array blocks (EABs) acting as on-chip SRAM, enabling System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration. Key features of the EPF10K50RC240-3 include 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 20,480 typical gates, embedded array blocks for memory functions, FastTrack Interconnect continuous routing structure for predictable timing delays, built-in low-skew clock distribution trees, and tri-state emulation support. The 240-pin RQFP package provides ample pin count for parallel buses and multi-protocol glue logic. Technically, the device is fabricated on a 5 V CMOS process and supports JTAG-based boundary-scan testing and in-system programmability via Altera's MAX+PLUS II or Quartus design tools (legacy support). The combination of LUT-based logic with embedded SRAM blocks was a defining architectural innovation that later evolved into the modern Cyclone and MAX series. Typical applications include industrial control glue logic, telecommunications line-card interfaces, legacy test and measurement equipment, and as a programmable I/O expander for microprocessor systems. Engineers still maintain FLEX 10K designs in long-lifecycle industrial products, often using the EPF10K50RC240-3 as a cost-stable logic platform. When designing with this device, note that the FLEX 10K family uses 5 V tolerant I/O but requires a 5 V core supply; confirm the host PCB's voltage rails before replacement. Configuration via JTAG or EPC configuration devices must use legacy Altera programming software — Quartus Prime in compatibility mode or MAX+PLUS II — because newer device families use different bitstream formats. This page synthesizes distributor stock, pricing across 23+ sources, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical sourcing notes not found in the original datasheet.
EPF10K50RC240-4 - 50K-Gate FLEX 10K FPGA, 240-RQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EPF10K50RC240-4 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) that pioneered the industry's first System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration through an embedded array block (EAB) architecture. Housed in a 240-pin RQFP (BFQFP with exposed pad) package, this commercial-grade device integrates approximately 50,000 usable gates, 2,880 logic cells, 360 logic array blocks (LABs), and 189 user I/Os fabricated on a 0.42 µm CMOS process and powered from a 5 V supply. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be electrically reconfigured by the designer after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital logic. The FLEX 10K family is positioned hierarchically as: FPGA -> programmable logic device (PLD) -> logic IC -> integrated circuit. FPGAs occupy the high-density end of the programmable logic spectrum, above CPLDs and below fixed-function ASICs, and are the dominant platform for prototyping, low-volume production, and reconfigurable computing. Key features of the EPF10K50RC240-4 include a maximum propagation delay of 0.6 ns (corresponding to roughly 125 MHz internal frequency per the FLEX 10K datasheet family), embedded array blocks (EABs) for efficient RAM/ROM implementation, MultiVolt I/O interface for interfacing across multiple logic standards, PCI pull-up clamping diodes, slew-rate control, and pin-by-pin configurable open-drain output options. Each logic element (LE) consists of a 4-input look-up table, a programmable flipflop, and dedicated carry/cascade paths, while groups of eight LEs form LABs that can implement counters, decoders, or state machines. Typical applications include glue logic and bus interfacing in telecom and industrial control, prototyping glue logic for ASIC/ASSP replacement, PCI bus bridges, mid-density state machines, and embedded control logic. The 5 V core supply combined with MultiVolt I/O compatibility makes it well suited to legacy 5 V system designs and mixed-voltage bridges to 3.3 V peripherals. Operating temperature spans 0 °C to 70 °C (commercial grade). When designing with the EPF10K50RC240-4, engineers should note that FLEX 10K devices are configured using legacy Altera programming tools (MAX+PLUS II or early Quartus), and that this device is now in mature lifecycle with no active new design-in support from Intel. Plan obsolescence mitigation early in the design cycle. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, FLEX 10K family pin-compatible drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a single reference for legacy FLEX 10K sourcing and replacement decisions.
EPF10K50RI240-4N - 50K-Gate FLEX 10K FPGA, 189 I/O, 240-RQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50RI240-4N is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), integrating 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and 189 user I/Os in a 240-pin RQFP (RQFP-240) package with exposed pad. It is fabricated on a 0.42 µm CMOS process, supports 5 V core operation, and is speed-grade -4 (slower industrial-grade timing closure for non-timing-critical applications). What is an FPGA? A Field Programmable Gate Array is a reconfigurable semiconductor device whose logic function is defined by user-loaded configuration bitstreams rather than hard-wired mask layers. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable-logic taxonomy: PLD (programmable logic device) -> CPLD (complex PLD) -> FPGA. The FLEX 10K family pioneered the embedded-array block (EAB) architecture, blending distributed logic with on-chip SRAM blocks for System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration, allowing each device to host both glue logic and dedicated memory-intensive functions (FIFOs, multipliers, microcontrollers). Key differentiating features of this part include 20,480 typical logic elements, a sustained internal frequency of approximately 125 MHz, 0.6 ns propagation delay, 3.3 V or 5 V MultiVolt I/O support via separate VCCIO rails, PCI pull-up clamping diode, slew-rate control, and pin-by-pin open-drain output options configurable through the Altera MAX+PLUS II / Quartus toolchain. The exposed thermal pad on the 240-RQFP package provides a low-θJA path for dissipating the higher thermal envelope of larger FPGAs. Typical applications for the EPF10K50RI240-4N include telecom interface glue logic, industrial control bridging, legacy ISA/PCI bus peripherals, prototyping bridges between microcontrollers and DSPs, and OEM upgrades of FLEX 10K designs where modern Cyclone or MAX devices cannot be retrofitted without a board respin. Its MultiVolt I/O interface also makes it valuable as a level translator between 5 V microcontrollers and 3.3 V peripherals. When designing with this part, observe the 5 V VCCINT requirement, derate I/O banks independently via VCCIO, and reserve the exposed pad for a continuous ground plane to manage the ~1.5 W typical quiescent power. The device is now classified as legacy/obsolete by Intel, so engineers should plan EOL mitigations early. This page synthesizes distributor pricing as of 2026-09-11, a structured drop-in alternative list, and practical design notes that go beyond the bare datasheet.
EPF10K50SFC484-3 - 50K FLEX-10KS FPGA 220 I/O 484-BGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel Programmable Solutions Group) EPF10K50SFC484-3 is a member of the FLEX-10KS family of SRAM-based Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) housed in a 484-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA) package. It integrates approximately 50,000 system gates, 2,880 logic elements (LEs), and 40,960 bits of embedded SRAM distributed across 10 EAB (Embedded Array Block) memory blocks. The device exposes 220 user I/O pins and is fabricated on a 0.42 µm CMOS process operating from a 2.5 V core supply. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs) interconnected by a programmable routing matrix, allowing designers to implement arbitrary digital logic that is re-programmable in-system. FPGAs sit hierarchically under programmable logic devices (PLDs), which in turn belong to the broader category of digital logic ICs and semiconductors. The FLEX-10KS family was one of the first families to embed dedicated SRAM blocks (EABs) alongside general-purpose logic, pioneering the System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) concept that allowed soft-core processors and custom peripherals to share a single silicon device. Key features of the EPF10K50SFC484-3 include 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 50,000 typical gates, 0.42 µm process geometry, 2.5 V VCCINT supply, in-system programmable SRAM configuration cells, and JTAG-compliant IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan test support. The '-3' speed grade denotes the slowest of three commercially available speed grades for this family and is generally used for cost-sensitive non-timing-critical applications. Architecturally, the device combines a Lookup Table (LUT)-based fine-grain logic fabric with 10 EABs that each provide up to 4 Kbits of dual-port SRAM, ideal for FIFO buffers, wide register files, and small cache memories. The programmable interconnect uses continuous FastTrack routing, providing predictable timing suitable for synchronous design at clock rates up to the family maximum (about 66 MHz internal frequency for the -3 speed grade in this family). Typical applications for the EPF10K50SFC484-3 include telecommunications glue logic, industrial control interfaces, prototyping ASICs, custom peripheral expansion in embedded systems, and legacy system upgrades where 5 V-tolerant I/O and 50 K-gate capacity are sufficient. The 484-ball FBGA package provides dense I/O access for board designs that need to break out a large number of signals. A key design consideration is the device's obsolete status - it was discontinued by Altera (now Intel PSG) and is only available through the secondary market. Designers should plan for last-time-buy or migration to newer Cyclone or MAX families. I/O banks support 2.5 V LVTTL/LVCMOS with PCI compatibility, and configuration must be loaded from a serial PROM or via JTAG at every power-up because the SRAM cells are volatile. This page synthesizes distributor inventory, same-brand speed-grade and EAB-count alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original FLEX-10KS datasheet - enabling engineers to source or substitute the EPF10K50SFC484-3 with confidence.
EPF10K50SQC208-2 - FLEX 10KS FPGA 50K Gates 208-PQFP | Altera
The Intel (Altera) EPF10K50SQC208-2 is a member of the FLEX 10KS family of Field-Programmable Gate Arrays, delivering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells (4,096 flipflops/registers) and 360 logic array blocks (LABs) in a 208-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (208-BFQFP/PQFP, 28x28 mm) gull-wing surface-mount package. It supports 147 user I/Os, runs from a 2.375 V to 2.625 V core supply on a 0.22 µm CMOS SRAM process, and is offered in a commercial 0 °C to 70 °C temperature grade with -2 speed grade. The device is built on a reconfigurable SRAM architecture with embedded array blocks (EABs) that allow on-chip implementation of RAM, ROM, FIFO, and multiplier functions, making it suitable for System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) designs. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that combines configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnect, and programmable I/O cells on a single semiconductor die. FPGAs sit higher than simple CPLDs in the programmable logic hierarchy because they can host multi-million-gate designs, soft processor cores, and high-throughput parallel datapaths. Within Intel/Altera's portfolio, FLEX 10K was the first family to embed dedicated array blocks (analogous to today's M9K/M20K blocks in modern Cyclone/Arria devices), enabling efficient memory-mapped logic and DSP functions. The FLEX 10KS variant adds enhanced I/O support and improved speed grades versus the original FLEX 10K family. Key features of the EPF10K50SQC208-2 include 50K typical gates / up to 100K maximum system gates, 40,960 bits of embedded memory, 147 user I/Os at LVTTL/LVCMOS-compatible levels, in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface, and boundary-scan testability. The device supports multi-voltage I/O standards including 5.0 V, 3.3 V, and 2.5 V interfacing through banked VCCIO rails. Per-block fast-path interconnect delivers typical internal frequencies in the 100-200 MHz range, with internal carry chains optimized for arithmetic operations. Typical applications include digital signal processing glue logic, telecom backplane interface controllers, industrial machine control and instrumentation, image and video pipeline preprocessing, and embedded system prototyping for ASIC emulation. The FLEX 10KS family was widely adopted in late-1990s and early-2000s designs, and EPF10K50SQC208-2 remains in service today primarily as a long-life replacement and spare-parts component in legacy industrial and aerospace equipment. When designing in the EPF10K50SQC208-2, engineers must consider the 5.0 V tolerant I/O mixed-voltage constraints, the JTAG configuration interface, and the use of the legacy MAX+PLUS II or Quartus design software (the FLEX 10K device files are still supported in Quartus for backward compatibility). Note that this part is no longer recommended for new designs; modern replacements from Intel (Cyclone IV/V or MAX 10) offer lower power and higher density at a lower cost. Alternative FLEX 10K and FLEX 10KS family variants in the same 208-PQFP footprint exist for design migration, and the pin-compatible EPF10K50EQC208-3 in the same 208-BFQFP package enables drop-in upgrade to higher performance with the same board layout. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, family-level drop-in alternatives, and legacy design notes not found in the original datasheet.
EPF10K50SQC208-3 - FLEX 10K 50K Gates FPGA | Intel | Altera
The Intel (Altera) EPF10K50SQC208-3 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) offering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, and 40,960 bits of embedded SRAM in a 208-pin PowerQuad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP) package. The "-3" speed grade delivers an internal frequency up to 166.67 MHz using 0.22 µm CMOS process technology. The device features 147 user I/Os, 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and supports a 2.5 V core supply voltage. This combination of density, speed, and packaging makes it well-suited for high-volume digital design integration. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a programmable logic device (PLD) that combines the density of gate arrays with the design flexibility of in-system programmability. FPGAs belong to the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs), sitting above simple PLDs (SPLDs) and complex PLDs (CPLDs) in capacity and below structured ASICs in non-recurring engineering cost. The FLEX 10K series is historically significant as one of the first devices to embed array blocks (EABs) alongside general-purpose logic, enabling System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration of megafunctions, FIFOs, and specialized memory in a single silicon die. Key features of the EPF10K50SQC208-3 include a propagation delay of 0.6 ns per gate, 274 user I/Os (per third-party BGA-package variant specifications), a commercial operating temperature range of 0 °C to 70 °C, and gull-wing surface-mount terminals. The device implements configurable logic via SRAM-based configuration cells, allowing infinite reprogrammability during development and in-field updates. Its 208-pin PQFP footprint provides mechanical compatibility with established PCB assembly lines and supports moderate-density designs that do not require the larger FineLine BGA packages of the same family. Architecturally, the FLEX 10K device integrates an Embedded Array Block (EAB) system that delivers up to 2,048 bits per EAB, enabling efficient implementation of RAM, ROM, and specialized logic functions such as multipliers and DSP blocks. The combination of LABs for general logic and EABs for memory-heavy functions allows designers to balance logic density against embedded memory, a differentiator compared with pure-logic FPGAs of the same era. The device is configured via the Altera MAX+PLUS II or Quartus design flow, both of which support schematic, VHDL, and Verilog entry. Typical applications include industrial automation control logic, telecom interface bridging, custom peripheral glue logic, prototyping for ASIC designs, and legacy digital systems in manufacturing and test equipment. The wide commercial temperature range and PQFP packaging make it accessible for standard SMT assembly without requiring advanced BGA rework processes. The EPF10K50SQC208-3 is also widely used for education, training, and reference designs in universities, since it remains a popular teaching target for older Quartus versions. Designers should note that the FLEX 10K family is part of an older-generation architecture; for new designs, the Altera Cyclone or MAX 10 families are recommended for active product lifecycle support. When using EPF10K50SQC208-3, ensure adequate decoupling, follow Altera's configuration guidelines (typically 6-pin passive serial or ByteBlaster download cable), and validate timing closure with the appropriate Quartus timing model. Finally, note that the device uses 2.5 V core but typically interfaces with 3.3 V peripherals via bank voltage reference. This page consolidates real-time distributor pricing, FLEX 10K family drop-in alternatives sharing the same 208-pin PQFP footprint, and practical design guidance not always found in the original Altera datasheet—useful for engineers sustaining legacy systems or sourcing through the secondary market.
EPF10K50SQC240-1 - 50K Gates, 189 I/O FLEX-10KS FPGA | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EPF10K50SQC240-1 is a 50K-gate member of the FLEX 10KS family of SRAM-look-up-table (LUT) based Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering 2880 logic cells, 360 Logic Array Blocks, 189 user I/O pins, and 40,960 bits of embedded SRAM in a 240-pin Power QFP (PQFP/BFQFP) package at a 250 MHz internal operating frequency. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around a matrix of configurable logic blocks (CLBs/LABs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that an engineer can re-program in the field to implement arbitrary digital logic. FPGAs occupy the hardware-reconfigurable tier of the broader programmable logic family hierarchy: PLD → CPLD → FPGA → System-on-Chip FPGA. The FLEX 10KS family specifically introduced embedded array blocks (EABs) for on-chip memory and DSP functions, marking Intel/Altera's transition from pure glue logic into System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration. Key differentiating features of the EPF10K50SQC240-1 include the 240-pin PQFP footprint with exposed gull-wing leads for socketed or surface-mount assembly, a 2.5 V core supply tolerance of ±5% (2.375 V to 2.625 V), in-system programmability through the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface, and 5V-tolerant I/O on selected banks enabling glueless interfacing to legacy 5V logic. The 'SQC' suffix denotes the standard commercial temperature grade (0 °C to +70 °C) and the '240-1' suffix encodes the speed grade and 240-pin PQFP package. Architecturally the EPF10K50SQC240-1 uses a 0.22 μm CMOS SRAM process with four-input look-up tables feeding 360 LABs, twelve EABs providing a total of 40,960 bits of dual-port RAM, and a FastTrack continuous-routing interconnect. This combination gives designers predictable timing for state machines, datapath glue, bus interfaces, and small embedded FIFOs without requiring an external configuration PROM when using a microprocessor or JTAG loader. Typical applications include telecommunications line-card glue logic, industrial control backplanes, PCI bridge interfaces, mid-density ASIC prototyping, and legacy long-life-cycle systems where the FLEX 10KS family has been qualified. When designing with this device, allow generous ground and VCCIO plane coverage on the PCB to keep the simultaneous-switching-noise (SSN) within the I/O bank's 5 V tolerance, and ensure JTAG chain integrity by buffering TMS/TCK near the connector.
EPF10K50SQC240-1N - FLEX 10KS FPGA 50K Gates 240-PQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50SQC240-1N is a FLEX 10KS family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering 50,000 typical gates (40,960 system gates) with 2,880 logic elements packaged in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP) measuring 32x32 mm. The device operates from a 2.375V to 2.625V core supply, runs up to 250 MHz internal frequency, and exposes 189 user I/Os for external interfacing. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit built from an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory, and programmable interconnect that designers program after manufacture. FPGAs sit in the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs), above simple CPLDs, and below custom ASICs in terms of integration density and NRE cost. The FLEX 10KS family from Altera pioneered embedded System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration by combining a logic array fabric with dedicated Embedded Array Blocks (EABs) used as RAM, ROM, or multiplier functions. Key features include 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), built-in Joint Test Action Group (JTAG) boundary-scan test circuitry compliant with IEEE Std. 1149.1-1990, and PCI Local Bus Specification Revision 2.2 compliance for both 3.3V and 5.0V operation at 33 MHz or 66 MHz on -1 speed grade devices. The 0.22 micrometer CMOS process delivers propagation delays as low as 0.6 ns in faster speed grades, while integrated clock management and PLL blocks simplify timing closure. Architecturally, each LAB contains 10 Logic Elements (LEs), and each LE contains a 4-input look-up table, a programmable register, and a carry chain for arithmetic. EABs provide 2 Kbits of dual-port RAM each, and the same fabric can be configured as synchronous SRAM or read-only memory. The device supports in-system programmability via the serial configuration EPROM interface and ByteBlaster download cables. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial motor control, PCI interface glue logic, glue logic between legacy microprocessors and peripherals, and digital signal processing front-ends. The wide 189-I/O count suits bus-intensive designs like 32-bit processor bridges and peripheral controllers. Designers often select this part for legacy system maintenance where the FLEX 10K silicon is already qualified. A key design consideration is configuration storage: FPGAs require an external configuration EPROM (such as an EPC2 or EPC8) or a microcontroller to load the bitstream at power-up. The -1N suffix indicates commercial temperature grade (0C to 70C) and the slower -1 speed grade; engineers needing higher performance should evaluate -2 or -3 speed grades in the same footprint. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same FLEX 10K family, and practical design notes that complement the manufacturer datasheet.
EPF10K50SQC240-2N - 50K Gate FLEX 10KE FPGA, 240-PQFP | Intel
The Intel / Altera EPF10K50SQC240-2N is a FLEX 10KE family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering 50,000 system gates and 2,880 logic cells in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) package. Built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process with a 2.5 V core supply, it operates up to 200 MHz internal frequency and is rated for commercial 0 °C to 70 °C ambient temperature. The device features 189 user I/Os and 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs) with embedded array blocks (EABs) for on-chip SRAM implementation. What is a FPGA? A Field-Programmable Gate Array is a semiconductor device built around a matrix of configurable logic blocks (CLBs / LABs) connected by programmable interconnect. FPGAs occupy a tier above simple PLDs and CPLDs in the programmable logic hierarchy because they integrate RAM blocks, multipliers (in newer families) and dedicated I/O, allowing entire digital subsystems to be implemented in a single chip. The FLEX 10KE family from Altera (now Intel PSG) is positioned as a cost-optimized mid-density family for glue logic, bus bridging, and DSP co-processing. Key features include 40,960 typical gate count, 2,880 logic elements, dedicated dual-port RAM via EABs, multi-voltage I/O supporting 2.5 V / 3.3 V / 5.0 V mixed-signal interfacing, in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface, and SameFrame pin-out migration allowing density migration within the same footprint. The 240-pin PQFP package measures 32.0 mm × 32.0 mm × 3.4 mm with 0.5 mm pitch and gull-wing leads. The FLEX 10KE architecture combines a fine-grained Logic Element (LE) fabric with coarse-grained EABs, each EAB providing up to 2,048 bits of RAM that Altera software can automatically combine to match designer memory requirements. MultiVolt I/O pins allow interfacing with 5.0 V, 3.3 V, and 2.5 V devices without external level shifters. Typical applications include PCI bus interface bridges, custom DSP co-processors, industrial control glue logic, telecommunications line-card controllers, and legacy system prototyping. The wide operating temperature range and SameFrame footprint migration also make the family suitable for long-lifecycle industrial designs. When designing with this part, ensure the Quartus II or MAX+PLUS II toolchain (depending on design age) supports the FLEX 10KE device family - legacy parts may require older Altera software versions. Decoupling: place 0.1 µF ceramic capacitors within 5 mm of every VCCINT / VCCIO pin pair. JTAG chain: configure via ByteBlaster or USB-Blaster and observe TCK pull-down requirements. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in FLEX 10KE same-package alternatives, and practical JTAG/Quartus design notes not found in the original Altera FLEX 10KE Embedded Programmable Logic Devices Data Sheet.
EPF10K50SQC240-3N - FLEX 10KE 50K Gates FPGA, 240-PQFP | Altera / Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50SQC240-3N is a member of the FLEX 10KE family of SRAM-based Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering 50,000 typical gates (40,960 system gates), 2,880 logic elements, 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and 189 user I/Os in a 240-pin Power Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) package. The "-3N" speed grade corresponds to a faster Fmax of 166.67 MHz, while the trailing "N" denotes a lead-free / Pb-free industrial finish. The die is built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process with a 2.5 V core supply, supporting 5.0 V tolerant I/O through the FLEX 10KE multi-voltage interface. Background: An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that combines the integration density of a gate array with the design flexibility of user-defined interconnect. FPGAs sit in the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLDs), which include SPLDs, CPLDs, and FPGAs. The FLEX 10KE family pioneered embedded array blocks (EABs) for System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration, blending dedicated SRAM blocks with general-purpose logic for memory-intensive glue logic, datapath, and bus-interface applications. The EPF10K50SQC240-3N occupies the mid-density position of that family. Key features include 40,960 system gates, 2,880 logic cells, 12 embedded array blocks (EABs) providing up to 24 Kbits of on-chip SRAM, 360 LABs of structured logic, 189 user I/Os, and a 0.6000 ns pin-to-pin propagation delay. IEEE Std. 1149.1 JTAG boundary-scan is supported, with built-in test circuitry adding up to 31,250 gates of dedicated test logic. MultiVolt I/O compatibility lets the device interface with 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and 5.0 V logic rails from a single 2.5 V VCCINT supply. The FLEX 10KE architecture uses a four-input look-up table (LUT) with a fast carry chain, providing predictable 0.6 ns combinational delay and dedicated high-speed interconnect for arithmetic and bus functions. The 12 EABs each implement 2 Kbits of dual-port RAM, ROM, or product-term logic, enabling efficient FIFO, CAM, and datapath designs without external memory. Typical applications include glue-logic integration between microprocessors and peripherals, PCI bus interface controllers, high-speed datapath and FIFO buffers, telecom backplane glue logic, industrial control state machines, and legacy 5 V-tolerant bridges between modern 3.3 V controllers and 5 V peripherals. Designers migrating from discrete TTL/CMOS glue can consolidate dozens of packages into one FLEX 10KE device. When designing with the EPF10K50SQC240-3N, ensure proper decoupling on VCCINT and VCCIO pins, observe JTAG chain integrity for in-system programming, and verify timing closure with the Quartus II design tool that targets the FLEX 10KE family. The -3 speed grade is preferred when the design is timing-critical; the -1 or -2 grades can be used when Fmax is not the limiting factor. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, SameFrame pin-compatible migration paths, and FLEX 10KE design notes not consolidated in the original Altera datasheet, enabling faster part selection, sourcing, and PCB layout decisions for legacy FPGA retrofits.
EPF10K50STC144-2 - 50K Gates FLEX-10KS FPGA, 102 I/O, 144-TQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50STC144-2 is a member of the FLEX-10KS family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays, delivering 50,000 typical gate density with 2,880 logic elements and 40,960 bits of embedded SRAM in a 144-pin TQFP package. Per the manufacturer datasheet, the device provides 102 user I/O pins, 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and a maximum internal frequency of 66.67 MHz with 0.6 ns propagation delay. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of Programmable Logic Device (PLD) that combines configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnect, and I/O cells on a single semiconductor die. The FLEX-10KS architecture sits within the broader hierarchy: PLD -> FPGA -> Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) hybrid family. The FLEX-10KS is notable as one of the first System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) capable families, integrating an embedded array block for RAM and ROM functions alongside the logic array. Key features include in-system programmability via SRAM configuration cells (allowing reconfiguration without removing the device), support for multiple I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI), and an internal frequency specification of 66.67 MHz. The device operates on a 5.0 V core supply and supports JTAG-based boundary-scan testing per IEEE 1149.1. The package is a 144-pin Low-profile Fine-pitch Quad Flat Pack (LQFP/TQFP), surface mount, gull-wing lead form. The FLEX-10KS architecture uses a CMOS logic fabric with continuous interconnect routing channels between LABs. Each LAB contains ten Logic Elements (LEs), each comprising a 4-input look-up table, a programmable register, and a dedicated carry chain. The embedded array blocks (EABs) provide 2 Kbit of dual-port RAM per block and can be cascaded to form larger memory structures, which was a distinctive feature at the time of introduction. Typical applications include glue logic replacement, custom interface bridging (e.g., PCI to legacy bus), industrial control systems, telecommunications line cards, and prototype ASIC emulation. The 102 I/O count is well suited to designs requiring moderate external connectivity, such as multi-port memory controllers or parallel data acquisition systems. When designing with the EPF10K50STC144-2, engineers should pay attention to configuration mode selection (Passive Serial, Passive Parallel Synchronous, Passive Parallel Asynchronous, or JTAG) and ensure the nCONFIG and nSTATUS pins have proper pull-up resistors during power-up sequencing. The SRAM-based configuration means the device must be reconfigured on every power-up unless an external configuration memory is used. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in compatible FLEX-10KS variants, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EPF10K50STC144-3 - FLEX 10KS 50K-Gate FPGA 2880 Cells | Altera
The Altera EPF10K50STC144-3 is a member of the FLEX 10KS series of high-density SRAM-based Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), providing 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements, and 40,960 RAM bits in a 144-pin TQFP commercial-grade package. According to the manufacturer product description, the device integrates 102 user I/Os, operates from a 2.5V core supply with 5.0V-tolerant I/O, and supports an internal operating frequency up to 166.67 MHz. The trailing -3 speed grade denotes a faster propagation delay bin than the -2 or -1 grades of the same family. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be configured by the customer or designer after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital logic. The FLEX 10KS architecture is a hierarchical SRAM-based PLD that combines fine-grain logic elements (LEs) grouped into Logic Array Blocks (LABs) with embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory functions. Within the broader taxonomy, the FLEX 10KS sits below modern Cyclone and Stratix families but above simple CPLDs, targeting glue-logic, bus-bridging, and medium-density state-machine designs. Key features include 360 LABs, 102 maximum user I/Os, JTAG IEEE Std. 1149.1 boundary-scan support built-in, and on-chip configuration memory. The 144-LQFP (also referenced as LFQFP / TQFP) package is a plastic gull-wing surface-mount form factor rated for commercial operating temperature. The SRAM-based configuration is volatile, requiring an external configuration device (EPC) at power-up. A built-in Joint Test Action Group (JTAG) boundary-scan test circuit is compliant with IEEE Std. 1149.1-1990 and consumes no additional device logic. The EPF10K50STC144-3 -3 speed grade offers tighter propagation delay than the -2 grade of the same family, making it preferred for designs that approach the upper frequency ceiling of 166.67 MHz. The architecture is implemented in a 0.22 um CMOS process, and the device is intended for commercial (0C to 70C) operating environments. Typical applications include telecommunications interface cards, industrial control and bridging logic, mid-density bus controllers, and legacy system upgrades. Design considerations for this device include mandatory configuration ROM selection (EPC1/EPC2 family), careful power-supply sequencing of 2.5V core and 5.0V I/O rails, and I/O bank planning against the available 102 user pins. Note: the FLEX 10K family is mature and was succeeded by ACEX 1K, Cyclone, and MAX families in the Altera (now Intel PSG) roadmap. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, pinout references, and practical design notes for the EPF10K50STC144-3 that are not found in a single manufacturer datasheet.
EPF10K50VBC356-1N - FLEX 10K 50K Gates 356-BGA FPGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EPF10K50VBC356-1N is a member of the FLEX 10K family of FPGAs featuring 50,000 gates, 2,880 logic cells, 360 LABs, and 274 user I/Os, fabricated on a 0.42 µm CMOS process and housed in a 356-pin LBGA (35x35 mm) package. It is rated for commercial operating temperature (0°C to 70°C) with a 3.3 V core supply (3.0 V to 3.6 V) and supports an internal frequency of up to 66.67 MHz with a propagation delay of approximately 0.6 ns. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and embedded memory blocks that can be reconfigured by the designer after manufacturing. Within the power-management and digital-logic hierarchy, FPGAs sit alongside microcontrollers and DSPs as general-purpose programmable compute elements, but offer far higher parallelism and I/O counts. The FLEX 10K series was the industry's first family to integrate embedded array blocks (EABs) for on-chip megafunctions such as efficient memory, multipliers, and specialized logic functions, providing System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration. Key features of the EPF10K50VBC356-1N include 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 274 user I/Os, embedded array blocks for memory and DSP megafunctions, JTAG-based in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan interface, and multi-voltage I/O support. The device is offered as the -1 speed grade, which represents the slowest (most conservative timing) of the FLEX 10K speed bins. The architecture combines a fine-grained logic fabric for glue logic and state machines with coarse-grained embedded array blocks (EABs) used to implement RAM, ROM, and arithmetic megafunctions. The 0.42 µm process and 3.3 V core supply were state-of-the-art when the family launched in the mid-1990s, and the 356-pin LBGA package provides the I/O density required for glue-logic, bus-interface, and co-processor applications of that era. Typical applications include industrial control logic, telecom line-card glue logic, legacy PCI/ISA bus bridges, prototyping platforms, and educational/embedded systems. The large 274-I/O count makes it well-suited to bus-intensive designs and to designs that must aggregate many peripheral interfaces. When designing with the EPF10K50VBC356-1N, engineers should note that this device is in mature lifecycle status with limited new-stock availability through authorized distributors; long-term production designs should plan for last-time-buy arrangements or consider migration to a Cyclone-series equivalent via Altera's legacy-device migration guide. PCB layout must follow JEDEC BGA guidelines, with microvia or via-in-pad recommended for the 1.27 mm pitch ball array. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in FLEX 10K family alternatives, lifecycle observations, and practical design notes not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EPF10K50VBC356-2 - FLEX 10K FPGA 50K Gates 356-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VBC356-2 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells and 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs) in a 356-pin LBGA package. Operating from a 3.3 V core supply with up to 274 user I/Os, the device is fabricated on a 0.42 µm CMOS process and supports internal frequencies up to 125 MHz. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that combines the high integration density of a gate array with the design flexibility of in-system programmability. FPGAs sit within the broader programmable logic hierarchy (PLA -> PAL -> CPLD -> FPGA -> SoC FPGA) and are widely used to implement glue logic, high-speed datapaths, bus bridges and ASIC prototyping. The FLEX 10K family was the industry's first family to embed an array of RAM blocks alongside the logic fabric, enabling System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration. Key features of the EPF10K50VBC356-2 include 20,480 typical flip-flops, 0.6 ns propagation delay through the Look-Up Table (LUT) and I/O blocks, CMOS logic family compatibility, 66.67 MHz internal frequency, and an operating temperature range of 0 °C to +70 °C for the commercial grade (-2 speed grade). The 356-pin LBGA (Low-profile Ball Grid Array) package provides high signal density and is suitable for SMT assembly on multi-layer boards. Architecturally, the device pairs a Logic Array of LABs with an Embedded Array Block (EAB) that provides dedicated dual-port RAM of up to 2048 bits per EAB. The I/O structure supports 5 V tolerant inputs and PCI-compliant operation, while in-system programmability via the Serial Passive (PS) configuration scheme allows rapid design iteration. The -2 speed grade places this EPF10K50V among the slower FLEX 10K speed bins, optimized for power-sensitive designs. Typical applications for the EPF10K50VBC356-2 include telecommunications line-card glue logic, industrial control bus bridging, ASIC prototyping, video and image processing front-ends, and legacy system replacements in equipment originally designed in the late 1990s. With its 274 user I/Os, the part is particularly attractive in designs that must aggregate multiple narrow buses into wider datapaths. When designing with this part, verify that your design tools (Quartus II or MAX+PLUS II) still target the FLEX 10K family and that the chosen power-sequencing scheme respects the device's 3.3 V core and I/O supply rails. The EPF10K50V family is now in NRND/EOL status on the Altera/Intel Product Discontinuance notice; for new designs, consider Cyclone IV or Cyclone V equivalents, and plan for last-time-buy if replacing existing stock.
EPF10K50VBC356-2N - FLEX 10K 50K-Gate FPGA | Intel | 356-BGA
The Intel (Altera) EPF10K50VBC356-2N is a member of the FLEX 10K family of embedded programmable logic devices, delivering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, and 274 user I/Os in a 356-ball LBGA package with 0.42 µm CMOS process technology and 3.3 V core supply. The -2N speed grade corresponds to a -2 performance tier and is rated for commercial operating temperature (0 °C to 70 °C per the datasheet header; Jotrin lists 0–85 °C for the broader FLEX 10K commercial variant). According to the verified web data, internal frequency is rated at 66.67 MHz with 0.6 ns propagation delay, fabricated on 0.42 µm CMOS at 3.3 V. A FLEX 10K device is a class of programmable logic device (PLD) — a digital integrated circuit whose logic function and interconnect are defined after manufacturing by the end user. FPGAs sit in the broader hierarchy of programmable logic: PLD → CPLD → FPGA → System-on-Programmable-Chip (SOPC). The FLEX 10K family was notable for embedding an array block alongside logic elements, an early step toward modern heterogeneous FPGA fabrics that combine dedicated multipliers, block RAM, and processor cores. This positions the EPF10K50VBC356-2N as an SOPC-class device for gate-array density at relatively low power. Key features include 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, 20,480 typical bits of memory, 274 user I/Os, and 356-ball LBGA packaging. The device supports in-system programmability via SRAM configuration, allowing reconfigurable logic and rapid prototyping. It is built on a CMOS process with 3.3 V supply, making it suitable for mixed 5 V/3.3 V systems when paired with proper I/O buffering. Typical applications include industrial control logic, glue logic replacement, custom bus interfaces, prototyping platforms, and embedded control where a moderate gate count is sufficient. The 356-BGA package and 0.42 µm process place this part in legacy designs that are still maintained in long-life-cycle systems such as factory automation controllers and telecom infrastructure. When designing with this part, ensure your PCB layout accommodates the 1.27 mm BGA pitch and that decoupling capacitors are placed close to all supply balls. Note that FLEX 10K devices are largely NRND/EOL — verify current lifecycle status before new designs and plan obsolescence mitigation. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.