FPGA & CPLD
Products (6352)
EPF10K50VBC356-3 - FLEX 10K FPGA, 50K Gates, 356-BGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EPF10K50VBC356-3 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) delivering approximately 50,000 typical gates, 20,480 logic elements (in the broader device family), 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and 274 user I/Os, all housed in a 356-ball LBGA (BGA-356) package. It is a commercial-grade, SRAM-based programmable logic device offering embedded array blocks for true System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration with up to 2,880 Kbits of embedded RAM. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a class of programmable logic device that combines the high integration of a gate array with the design flexibility of in-system programmability. Within the programmable logic hierarchy, FPGAs sit above CPLDs and below fixed-function ASICs: a CPLD is suited to glue-logic and small state machines, while an FPGA targets high-density datapath, DSP, and bus-interface functions. The FLEX 10K family specifically pioneered the embedded array block architecture that merged look-up-table logic with dedicated memory, allowing the designer to implement RAM, ROM, and FIFO functions without consuming general-purpose logic. Key differentiating features include 274 user I/Os (a high pin count for a 356-ball BGA device), 360 LABs each containing 8 Logic Elements, embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory-intensive functions, an internal performance up to 66.67 MHz in the -3 speed grade, and in-system programmability through the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface. The device supports multi-volt I/O operation including 5.0V, 3.3V, and 2.5V signaling, enabling bridging between legacy and modern logic families without external level shifters. The architecture is built on a 0.42 µm CMOS SRAM process with 5 layers of metal interconnect. Each LAB contains 8 LEs, and each LE includes a 4-input look-up table, a programmable register, and dedicated carry and cascade chains for high-speed arithmetic. The EAB provides 2 Kbits of dual-port RAM that can be configured as RAM, ROM, or FIFO, delivering the embedded memory density that distinguishes FLEX 10K from pure-logic FPGAs of its era. Typical applications include high-volume glue-logic replacement, custom peripheral controllers for embedded systems, industrial bus-interface bridges (PCI, VME), telecommunications backplane glue, and legacy system repair where the original part is now obsolete. The high I/O count and embedded RAM make it well-suited for datacom and telecom infrastructure that was designed in the late 1990s and is still in production service. When designing with this device, note that the -3 speed grade is the mid-tier offering; a -4 grade variant exists for higher performance applications. Ensure your JTAG chain and configuration PROM are properly designed, since FLEX 10K is configured from external serial EPROM at power-up. The 356-ball BGA requires careful PCB layout with controlled-impedance traces and a minimum of 4-layer stack-up to maintain signal integrity on the high-pin-count package. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the Site MPN list, and practical design notes not found in the original datasheet, providing engineers with a single reference for sourcing and designing with the EPF10K50VBC356-3.
EPF10K50VBC356-3N - 50K Gates FLEX 10K FPGA, 356-BGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EPF10K50VBC356-3N is a member of the FLEX 10K family of SRAM-based Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, and 274 user I/Os in a 356-pin BGA package. Manufactured on a 0.42 µm CMOS process, it supports a core supply of 3.3 V and operates over the commercial 0 °C to 70 °C temperature range with an internal performance frequency of up to 125 MHz at speed grade -3. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that integrates configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory, and programmable interconnect into a single semiconductor die. Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, FPGAs sit alongside CPLDs (Complex Programmable Logic Devices) and ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) as a family of programmable logic devices (PLDs). The FLEX 10K family pioneered System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration by embedding array blocks (EABs) for on-chip RAM and ROM alongside general-purpose logic, enabling designs that previously required separate glue logic, memory, and interconnect. Key features of the EPF10K50VBC356-3N include 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 274 user I/O pins, propagation delay of approximately 0.6 ns, and 5 V-tolerant I/O on the 3.3 V core supply thanks to the FLEX 10K multi-voltage interface. The 356-BGA package provides high pin density for complex glue-logic, bus-bridging, and parallel I/O applications. A JTAG-compliant boundary-scan test interface (IEEE Std 1149.1) is provided for in-system configuration and board-level testing. Typical applications for the EPF10K50VBC356-3N span industrial automation controllers, telecommunications line cards, legacy system glue logic, and prototyping platforms where 50K-gate density and 274 I/O are sufficient. Engineers select the -3 speed grade when timing margins are tight; the part is also available in -1, -2, and -4 speed grades to trade speed for cost. Note that the FLEX 10K family is mature and now generally considered NRND or obsolete for new designs—current generation Intel FPGAs (Cyclone, MAX series) are the recommended successors. When designing with this device, ensure the configuration EEPROM or download cable (such as the Altera ByteBlaster) is selected for the 3.3 V core. Decoupling must follow the FLEX 10K reference design with 0.1 µF and 10 µF capacitors near each VCCINT and VCCIO pin, and unused I/O pins should be left floating per datasheet guidance. This page synthesizes distributor stock, drop-in alternatives from the FLEX 10K family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone. Pricing references are as of 2026-09-11.
EPF10K50VBC356-4 - FLEX 10K FPGA, 50K Gates, 356-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VBC356-4 is a member of the FLEX 10K embedded programmable logic device family, providing 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, and 274 user I/Os in a 356-pin BGA package. It integrates a CMOS logic-array fabric with embedded array blocks, delivering up to 125 MHz internal operation from a 3.3 V supply. The device implements System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration by combining look-up tables, embedded array blocks, and FastTrack interconnect on a single die. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnects, and I/O cells that engineers can program after manufacture to implement arbitrary digital logic. FPGAs sit in the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs), which also includes simple PLDs (SPLDs), complex PLDs (CPLDs), and modern heterogeneous SoC FPGAs that embed hard processor cores. Within Intel's portfolio, FPGAs occupy the programmable-logic tier alongside CPLDs (MAX series) and high-end SoC FPGAs (Stratix, Cyclone, Agilex). The FLEX 10K family was historically the industry's first embedded PLD family to provide true SOPC integration, enabling designers to mix soft logic with embedded array blocks for memory and arithmetic functions. The EPF10K50VBC356-4 features a 0.6 ns propagation delay, 16 embedded array blocks, and 3,152 logic elements, supporting designs that demand moderate-density logic with embedded memory and arithmetic blocks. The 356-ball BGA package provides high I/O density suitable for complex glue-logic, bus-interface, and signal-processing tasks. Configuration is performed via in-system programming through the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface or with an external serial/configuration EPROM. Typical applications span telecommunications infrastructure, industrial control, military and aerospace systems, ASIC prototyping, and DSP preprocessing. Engineers select the FLEX 10K family when they require deterministic timing, embedded array blocks, and JTAG-based in-system reprogrammability within a moderate-density logic budget. When designing with the EPF10K50VBC356-4, observe the 3.3 V supply rail tolerance, ensure adequate decoupling across the BGA balls, and follow the JTAG configuration procedure in the manufacturer datasheet. The commercial temperature grade (0 C to 70 C) limits deployment to non-automotive environments - use the -N suffix variant for industrial extended-temperature designs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in package-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original manufacturer datasheet.
EPF10K50VBI356-3 - FLEX 10K FPGA, 50K Gates, 356-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VBI356-3 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays, integrating 50,000 typical gates with 2,880 logic cells and 20,480 RAM bits in a 356-ball LBGA package. It is built on a 0.42 µm CMOS SRAM process and supports up to 274 user I/O pins, with a maximum internal frequency of 125 MHz and propagation delay of 0.6 ns at speed grade -3. Operating from a 3.3 V core supply, the device includes an embedded array block (EAB) for System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration, making it suitable for ASIC-replacement designs and high-density glue-logic replacement. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs) connected via programmable interconnect, allowing the hardware function to be redefined after manufacture. FPGAs sit within the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) -> CPLDs -> FPGAs -> programmable SoCs, occupying the high-density end of that taxonomy. Compared to fixed-function ASICs, FPGAs offer lower NRE cost and faster time-to-market at the expense of unit cost, power, and absolute performance. Key features of the EPF10K50VBI356-3 include 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs) for distributed logic implementation, dedicated EABs that provide up to 2,048 bits of dual-port RAM per block for efficient on-chip memory, and JTAG-compliant IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan support for in-system programming and board-level test. The device is offered in commercial (0 °C to 70 °C) and industrial (-40 °C to 100 °C, indicated by the 'I' suffix) operating temperature grades, with multiple speed grades (-2, -3, -4) covering different Fmax/power trade-offs. The FLEX 10K architecture pairs a fine-grained logic fabric with coarse-grained embedded array blocks, allowing designers to implement both random control logic and structured datapath/memory functions on a single die. Each LAB contains eight Logic Elements (LEs), each LE carrying a 4-input LUT, a programmable register, and a carry chain. The EABs can be cascaded to form wider/deeper RAM blocks or used as product-term logic, enabling ROM, FIFO, and multiplier implementations without consuming logic resources. Typical applications include telecommunications line-card glue logic, industrial control and instrumentation front-ends, networking adapters, ASIC prototyping, and legacy system refresh where higher-density replacement FPGAs are unavailable. The 356-pin LBGA package supports the highest I/O count in the family, sufficing for memory bus bridging, multi-port interface aggregation, and bus-width conversion tasks. When designing with this part, observe the recommended 3.3 V I/O supply and ensure proper decoupling of every VCCINT/VCCIO pair with 0.1 µF capacitors placed within 5 mm of the BGA balls. The device requires JTAG-compatible configuration via the EPC1, EPC2, or a microprocessor; configure mode pins (MSEL0/MSEL1) according to the desired configuration scheme before power-up. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in FLEX 10K alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet.
EPF10K50VBI356-3N - 50K Gates, 356-BGA FLEX 10K FPGA | Altera
The Intel (Altera) EPF10K50VBI356-3N is a FLEX 10K family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering 50,000 usable gates and 2,880 logic cells in a 356-pin LBGA package, built on a 0.42 µm CMOS SRAM process and supplied from a 3.3 V core rail. It integrates 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs) with 274 user I/Os and Embedded Array Blocks (EABs) for on-chip RAM, providing 20,480 bits of memory. The speed grade "-3N" denotes the industrial-grade timing bin and lead-free (Pb-free) termination. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that integrates configurable logic blocks (LBs/LABs), routing interconnects, and I/O cells onto a single die. Designers describe logic with HDL (VHDL/Verilog) and synthesize it onto the device using the vendor toolchain (Quartus/MAX+PLUS II). FPGAs sit between discrete logic ICs (74-series) and fixed ASICs: unlike 74HC/74LVT glue logic, FPGAs are re-programmable in-circuit; unlike ASICs, no mask set or NRE is required. Within the programmable logic hierarchy: PLD -> CPLD -> FPGA, and within the FPGA hierarchy: SRAM-based FPGA -> LUT-based logic fabric -> island-style architecture (used by FLEX 10K). Key features of the EPF10K50VBI356-3N include 50 K typical gates (around 23 K usable logic gates), 2,880 logic elements, 20,480 bits of embedded SRAM distributed across EABs, 360 LABs, and 274 user I/O pins. MultiVolt I/O supports interfacing with 5.0 V, 3.3 V, and 2.5 V devices. The device is in-system programmable (ISP) via JTAG (IEEE 1149.1 Boundary-Scan) using serial configuration, making it suitable for field-upgradeable designs. Typical applications for the EPF10K50VBI356-3N include telecommunications line cards, industrial control glue logic, bus-interface bridges (PCI, ISA, VME), and prototype/ASIC emulation. The 356-BGA package provides ample signal integrity for high-density parallel buses while keeping the board footprint manageable. Designers should consult the Altera FLEX 10K Device Handbook for timing models, I/O standards, and configuration schemes. Note: this device is mature/legacy silicon (introduced circa 1998-2000) and is now in the End-of-Life (EOL) phase - sourcing from authorized distributors and verifying date codes is recommended for new production builds.
EPF10K50VBI356-4 - 50K Gates Flex 10K FPGA, 356-BGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VBI356-4 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of SRAM-based Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), featuring 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells (LEs), 360 logic array blocks (LABs), and 274 user I/Os housed in a 356-ball LBGA package. The device is fabricated on a 0.42 µm CMOS process and operates from a 3.3 V core supply, with the speed grade '-4' indicating a specific timing closure within the FLEX 10K family. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a reconfigurable integrated circuit that combines programmable logic blocks, programmable interconnect, and programmable I/O cells on a single die, allowing designers to implement custom digital functions after manufacturing. FPGAs sit hierarchically under programmable logic devices (PLDs) and above application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) in terms of flexibility versus NRE cost, making them ideal for prototyping, low-volume production, and systems that require post-deployment hardware updates. The FLEX 10K family was Altera's first embedded array family, integrating dedicated Embedded Array Blocks (EABs) for on-chip memory alongside logic, which pioneered the System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) concept. Key features of the EPF10K50VBI356-4 include 20,480 typical usable gates, internal frequency support up to 125 MHz, propagation delay as low as 0.6 ns at the -4 speed grade, 16 embedded array blocks providing configurable memory, in-system programmability via JTAG, and a commercial operating temperature range of 0 °C to 70 °C. The device supports multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, and PCI, configurable per pin through the Altera MAX+PLUS II or Quartus design tools. The 356-pin LBGA package provides high pin density suitable for designs requiring the full 274 I/O count plus dedicated clock, configuration, and JTAG pins. Technically, the FLEX 10K architecture combines a symmetric logic array with continuous routing resources and dedicated embedded memory blocks. Each LAB contains 8 logic elements with a local interconnect, while EABs provide RAM/ROM blocks up to 2,048 bits each. Configuration is volatile (SRAM-based), requiring an external configuration device such as the EPC2 or EPC8 on power-up. The '-4' speed grade is among the slower bin within the family, trading timing margin for power and yield, which makes this particular MPN suitable for cost-sensitive industrial and communication designs that do not require the highest possible clock rate. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial control and factory automation glue logic, legacy computing interface bridging, prototyping for ASIC replacement, test and measurement instrumentation, and military/aerospace systems where the FLEX 10K family has long-tail lifecycle support. The large 274-I/O count and 50K-gate capacity make this device well suited for bus interface aggregation, multi-protocol bridge ICs, and digital signal processing front-end pre-processing. When designing with this part, ensure a compatible configuration memory is selected (EPC2, EPC8, or compatible) and that JTAG chain integrity is verified before production. The 356-ball LBGA package requires careful PCB layout with controlled-impedance traces and a multi-layer stack-up; ball pitch and via-in-pad design rules must be followed. For new designs, consider migrating to Cyclone or MAX 10 families for lower power and longer lifecycle, but for maintenance of installed bases the FLEX 10K remains in service across many legacy systems. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives from the FLEX 10K family, and practical design notes not found in the original datasheet alone, making it a higher-value reference than distributor product listings for engineers maintaining or replicating legacy FLEX 10K designs.
EPF10K50VFC484-3 - 50K FLEX-10K FPGA 484-BGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VFC484-3 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) devices, providing 50,000 typical gates of logic density integrated with 40,960 bits of embedded array RAM in a 484-ball FineLine BGA package. Speed grade -3 denotes a commercial temperature range (0C to 70C) with standard AC performance, targeting cost-sensitive high-volume designs. 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. The FLEX 10K family is the industry's first embedded programmable logic device (PLD) family, providing System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration by combining an embedded array for implementing megafunctions such as efficient memory and specialized I/O, with a logic array for general logic. Architecturally the EPF10K50VFC484-3 contains 360 logic array blocks (LABs), 2,880 logic elements, 13 embedded array blocks (EABs), and 291 user I/O pins - placing it in the mid-density class of the FLEX 10K hierarchy: FLEX 10K -> CPLD/FPGA hybrid family -> programmable logic device -> semiconductor IC. Key features include 291 I/O, 5V-tolerant I/O buffers (per FLEX 10K family), in-system programmability via the serial configuration device interface, multi-volt I/O support for 5.0V/3.3V/2.5V operation, and embedded memory blocks configurable as RAM, ROM, or FIFO. Supply voltage spans 3.0V to 3.6V with the FLEX 10K core running on 3.3V. The 484-pin FineLine BGA package is 23 mm x 23 mm with a 1.0 mm ball pitch, providing high-density I/O for complex glue-logic and bus-interface applications. Typical applications include high-volume glue logic, bus bridging and interface conversion, industrial control, telecommunications line cards, legacy system prototyping, and ASIC prototyping for SOPC (System-on-a-Programmable-Chip) emulation. The EPF10K50VFC484-3 is also widely used in educational and replacement scenarios because the FLEX 10K family is mature and well-supported by legacy toolchains (MAX+PLUS II and Quartus). Parts may ship as RoHS-compliant or leaded depending on date code; verify the specific date code before designing new production hardware. Designers should note that the FLEX 10K family is in long-term legacy status: the part is no longer recommended for new designs (NRND) and is supported primarily through Rochester Electronics, Intel's authorized legacy distributor. When designing a replacement board, prefer the MAX II, Cyclone, or MAX 10 families for new designs, and use the EPF10K50VFC484-3 only when matching legacy footprints.
EPF10K50VFC484-3N - 50K-Gate FLEX-10K FPGA, 484-BGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VFC484-3N is a member of the FLEX-10K family of SRAM-based Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements (LEs), and 40,960 bits of embedded RAM in a 484-ball FineLine BGA package. Built on a 0.42 µm CMOS process with a 3.3 V core supply (3.0 V–3.6 V tolerance), this -3 speed-grade device supports internal clock frequencies up to 125 MHz and offers 291 user I/Os for high-pin-count glue-logic, bus-interface, and DSP pre-processing designs. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a class of programmable logic device (PLD) whose architecture consists of configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnect, and I/O cells, all controlled by on-chip SRAM configuration memory. The FLEX-10K family pioneered the embedded array block (EAB) concept, where each EAB provides 2,048 bits of dual-port RAM plus logic, enabling System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration of memory, register files, and arithmetic functions alongside general-purpose logic. This positions the part within the broader hierarchy: programmable logic device -> PLD -> FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> embedded-array FPGA -> power management and digital signal processing subsystems. Key features of the EPF10K50VFC484-3N include 2,880 LEs organized in 10 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 12 Embedded Array Blocks (EABs) supplying 24 Kbits of true dual-port RAM, 291 user I/Os with MultiVolt I/O supporting 5.0 V, 3.3 V, and 2.5 V interfacing, and a propagation delay of 0.6 ns per LE in the -3 speed grade. The 484-FBGA (23 mm × 23 mm body) uses a 1.27 mm ball pitch, suitable for production surface-mount assembly but requiring X-ray or BGA rework tools for prototyping. The FLEX-10K architecture implements a four-input LUT-based logic element with a dedicated carry chain for fast arithmetic and a cascade chain for wide AND gates, while the EABs can be configured as RAM, ROM, or multiplier blocks. In-system configuration is supported via the passive serial (PS), passive parallel synchronous (PPS), passive parallel asynchronous (PPA), and active serial (AS) modes, with the bitstream loaded from a serial configuration EPROM or a microcontroller. JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) boundary-scan test is built in, simplifying board-level diagnostics. Typical applications span telecom line-card glue logic, industrial bus bridges (PCI to local bus), imaging front-ends, low-density data-path pre-processing, and legacy ASIC prototyping. Because the device uses SRAM configuration memory, it must be reconfigured at every power-up, which suits system-level flexibility over cold-start determinism. Designers should use the legacy Altera MAX+PLUS II or Quartus II (7.2 and earlier) toolchains because newer Quartus versions have dropped FLEX-10K support. The 484-BGA requires a minimum 6-layer PCB with controlled-impedance traces and an array of GND/VCC balls forming a power/ground plane thermal path. For new designs, consider the MAX II or Cyclone IV families, but for installed-base designs the FLEX-10K remains a supported, long-lifecycle component.
EPF10K50VQC240-1 - FLEX 10K FPGA 50K Gates 240-PQFP | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EPF10K50VQC240-1 is a FLEX 10K family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, 360 logic array blocks, and 189 user I/Os in a 240-pin Power Quad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP) package. Built on a 0.42 µm CMOS SRAM process, it supports 3.3 V core operation, offers a typical internal frequency of 66.67 MHz, and features 0.6 ns propagation delay for high-density glue-logic and data-path applications. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built from an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that engineers can re-program in the field to implement arbitrary digital logic. The FLEX 10K family belongs to the hierarchy of programmable logic devices: it sits above simple CPLDs and below modern SoC FPGAs, combining look-up-table (LUT) based logic with embedded array blocks (EABs) that act as on-chip RAM/ROM. FPGAs in this class are widely used as integration platforms, replacing dozens of discrete 74-series logic ICs while supporting in-system reconfiguration. Key features of the EPF10K50VQC240-1 include 20,480 typical gates with embedded array blocks for memory functions, 189 maximum user I/Os (240 PQFP variant), in-system programmability via SRAM configuration cells, JTAG boundary-scan support, and multi-volt I/O compatibility with 5.0 V, 3.3 V, and 2.5 V interfaces. The device supports asynchronous, synchronous, and high-speed clock distribution networks suitable for pipelined datapath designs. The FLEX 10K architecture combines a logic array of enhanced logic elements (ELEs) with embedded array blocks (EABs), allowing designers to mix distributed gate logic with on-chip memory or wide-function arithmetic. The VQC240-1 package is the 240-pin Power QFP variant with 189 usable I/O pins, optimized for board-level integration where high I/O count is required in a through-hole-friendly footprint. Typical applications for the EPF10K50VQC240-1 include industrial control glue logic, telecommunications line-card interfaces, legacy PCI bus bridges, prototyping platforms for ASIC emulation, and replacement of multiple 74-series TTL/CMOS glue-logic ICs. Designers also use it for bus interfacing, custom state-machine controllers, and educational digital-design platforms. When designing with the EPF10K50VQC240-1, note that the part requires a configuration EEPROM or JTAG programmer at every power-up because the SRAM-based configuration is volatile. Consider the 240-pin PQFP footprint for layout review - the -1 speed grade indicates the slowest timing bin; for higher performance choose -2 or -3 variants in the same family. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, FLEX 10K family drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, with sources drawn from DigiKey, Mouser, and Octopart.
EPF10K50VQC240-1N - 50K-Gate FLEX-10K FPGA | Intel / Altera | 240-PQFP
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VQC240-1N is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays, providing 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements (logic cells), and 20,480 bits of embedded array memory in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) package rated for commercial temperature (0C to 70C). It operates from a 3.0 V to 3.6 V supply and is the "-1" speed grade, characterized for a 250 MHz internal frequency. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and I/O cells, allowing hardware designers to implement custom digital logic after fabrication. FPGAs sit in the broader taxonomy: programmable logic device (PLD) -> CPLD/FPGA -> reconfigurable logic -> digital IC -> semiconductor. The FLEX 10K family is the industry's first family to embed an array block (EAB) alongside the logic array, supporting System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration that combines dedicated SRAM blocks with general-purpose logic. Key features include 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 189 user I/Os, propagation delay of 0.6 ns, built-in low-skew clock distribution trees, FastTrack Interconnect continuous routing structure for predictable interconnect delays, tri-state emulation, and 100% functional testing of all devices. The "QC240" suffix denotes the 240-pin PQFP gull-wing package, while the "-1" indicates the speed grade and "N" indicates lead-free / Pb-free terminal finish. The architecture combines a fine-grained logic fabric with coarse-grained embedded array blocks (EABs) that can be configured as RAM, ROM, or programmable logic. This hybrid approach allows the EPF10K50VQC240-1N to replace up to 50K gates of glue logic plus small memory blocks in a single device, with predictable timing closure thanks to the continuous routing architecture. Typical applications include telecom interface glue logic, industrial control prototyping, PCI bridge logic, legacy 5 V/3.3 V system I/O expansion, ASIC prototyping, and educational development platforms. The 240-pin PQFP is hand-solderable and socket-compatible, making this part a popular choice for low-volume and legacy designs where surface-mount BGA rework would be impractical. When designing with this part, ensure your configuration device (EPC2, EPC8, or compatible) provides the correct bitstream and that JTAG chain termination matches IEEE 1149.1. Use Quartus II version 13.0 or earlier for legacy FLEX 10K support; current Quartus releases no longer target this family. This page synthesizes distributor stock, price tiering, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, giving an engineer a one-stop reference for the EPF10K50VQC240-1N.
EPF10K50VQC240-2 - 50K Gate FLEX-10K FPGA, 240-BFQFP | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EPF10K50VQC240-2 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of SRAM-based Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) housed in a 240-pin BFQFP (also designated 240-PQFP / FQFP / QFP-240) gull-wing surface-mount package. It integrates 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements (Logic Array Blocks / LABs), 20,480 bits of embedded array memory, and 189 user I/O pins. The device is fabricated on a 0.42 micrometer CMOS process with four-layer metal interconnect, supports a 3.3 V core supply (with 5.0 V tolerant I/O via MultiVolt I/O), and operates at an internal frequency up to 125 MHz with 0.6 ns propagation delay. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs / LABs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that can be re-programmed by the customer after manufacture to implement arbitrary digital logic. FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs and software-programmable processors: they offer hardware-level parallelism and deterministic timing without the NRE cost of an ASIC, while providing far higher logic density than discrete glue logic. The FLEX 10K family pioneered the concept of an Embedded Array Block (EAB), allowing on-chip implementation of RAM, ROM, FIFO, and multiplier functions alongside general-purpose logic. Key features of the EPF10K50VQC240-2 include MultiVolt I/O (supporting 5.0 V, 3.3 V, and 2.5 V interface voltages on the same die), 360 LABs arranged in rows and columns, a FastTrack continuous interconnect structure that delivers predictable interconnect delays, built-in low-skew clock distribution trees, JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) boundary-scan test support, and in-system configurability via the Altera serial configuration scheme. The device operates over the commercial 0 C to +70 C temperature range and supports 100 percent functional testing of all devices prior to shipment. Architecturally, the FLEX 10K fabric combines 100 percent interconnect-driven logic synthesis with embedded array blocks that can be configured as memory or wide-gate logic. The LUT-based logic elements deliver fast, deterministic timing suitable for state machines, datapath control, bus interfacing, and DSP pre/post-processing. The MultiVolt I/O ring supports mixed-voltage system designs (e.g., 5 V legacy peripherals alongside a 3.3 V processor) without external level shifters, simplifying board layout. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial control and factory automation controllers, glue-logic consolidation in networking equipment, ASIC prototyping, DSP co-processing front-ends, military and avionics subsystems, and legacy system sustainment where original ASICs are no longer available. The 240-BFQFP package also enables hand-rework and socketed prototyping for low-volume designs. When designing with this device, observe the FLEX 10K configuration scheme requirements: an external configuration EPROM (typically EPC2 or EPC1) or controller is required for SRAM-based configuration at power-up. Plan for a 3.3 V core / 5.0 V I/O power tree, in-rush limiting on VCCINT, and proper decoupling (0.1 uF per power pin plus bulk) to keep simultaneous-switching noise within the device's I/O specifications. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-brand and cross-brand alternatives sourced from the Site MPN catalog, and practical design notes drawn from the Altera FLEX 10K datasheet family - information not found on any single distributor product page.
EPF10K50VQC240-2N - 50K Gates FLEX 10K FPGA 240-PQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VQC240-2N is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements (cells), and 189 user I/Os in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP / BFQFP, 32x32 mm) surface-mount package. It is built on a 0.42 µm CMOS SRAM process and operates from a 3.3 V supply with 5.0 V tolerant I/O, integrating an embedded array architecture that uniquely combines logic and dedicated memory blocks on a single die for System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) implementations. What is an FPGA? An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that the designer configures after manufacture. FPGAs sit above CPLDs in the programmable logic hierarchy and are used to implement arbitrary digital logic, DSP pipelines, glue logic, bus interfaces, and full soft processor cores. The FLEX 10K family was the industry's first device to embed an array block alongside the logic array, enabling true SOPC integration where memory and logic coexist on one programmable fabric. Key features of this device include 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 20,480 typical RAM bits, built-in low-skew clock distribution trees, fast and predictable FastTrack Interconnect continuous routing, JTAG boundary-scan support, and tri-state emulation. The internal maximum frequency is 125 MHz and the propagation delay is approximately 0.6 ns. It is the commercial temperature grade variant, specified for 0 °C to 70 °C operation with a -2 speed grade. Technically, the FLEX 10K architecture is implemented with SRAM configuration memory, allowing unlimited re-programmability in-system through the ByteBlaster or BitBlaster configuration interfaces. The embedded array blocks (EABs) provide true dual-port RAM, ROM, and multiplier functions, while the LABs each contain eight logic elements. This makes the EPF10K50VQC240-2N suitable for telecommunications, industrial control, consumer electronics, and legacy digital system retrofits where mid-density programmable logic is required. Typical applications include telecom line cards, motor and motion control, factory automation backplanes, networking glue logic, and ASIC prototyping. For replacement scenarios, this part is pin-compatible with other EPF10K50VQC240 speed grades (-1, -3) and the VQC240 family in general. Design with 3.0 V to 3.6 V core supply, ensure JTAG chain integrity, and follow Altera AN 116 configuration guidelines.
EPF10K50VQC240-3 - 50K Gate FLEX 10K FPGA, 240-PQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EPF10K50VQC240-3 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), integrating 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, and 360 logic array blocks (LABs) in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) package with 189 user I/O pins. It is fabricated on a 0.42 µm CMOS process and operates from a 3.3 V core supply, with a typical internal frequency capability up to 125 MHz and pin-to-pin propagation delay of approximately 0.6 ns. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory arrays, and programmable interconnect, allowing hardware designers to implement custom digital logic without the cost and lead time of ASIC fabrication. The FLEX 10K family specifically pioneered the embedded array block (EAB) architecture, combining look-up-table logic with on-chip RAM/ROM blocks to enable System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) designs that integrate memory and logic on a single die. Within the broader taxonomy, an FPGA sits above CPLDs and below ASICs in design flexibility and density. Key features of the EPF10K50VQC240-3 include 189 programmable I/Os supporting multiple I/O standards, 360 LABs with fast interconnect, built-in low-skew clock distribution trees, FastTrack Interconnect for predictable timing closure, and tri-state emulation for bus-oriented designs. The device supports 100% functional testing before shipment, in-system programmability via SRAM configuration cells, and JTAG boundary-scan support. The -3 speed grade positions this part in the mid-speed tier of the FLEX 10K lineup, trading maximum Fmax for a more accessible price point. Typical applications span telecommunications line cards, industrial control and instrumentation, glue logic replacement, custom interface bridging (PCI, ISA, proprietary buses), and legacy system upgrades where a programmable solution is needed to consolidate discrete logic. The 189 I/O count makes it suitable for mid-density bus-oriented designs. When designing with this part, ensure your configuration memory interface (EPC configuration device or microcontroller) is compatible with the 3.3 V VCCINT supply and that the Quartus II / MAX+PLUS II toolchain is selected, as this FLEX 10K device is in the mature Altera legacy flow. The EPF10K50VQC240-3 is widely available in the distribution channel but should be considered for legacy maintenance designs given its NRND/EOL trajectory; long-term availability should be verified before new design-in. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same FLEX 10K family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
EPF10K50VQC240-3N - FLEX 10K 50K Gates FPGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VQC240-3N is a FLEX 10K family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) with 50,000 system gates, 2,880 logic cells, 360 LABs/CLBs, and 189 user I/Os, housed in a 240-pin Power Quad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP) package. It is fabricated on a 0.42 µm CMOS process and operates from a 3.3 V supply at up to 125 MHz internal frequency. The '-3' speed grade delivers commercial-temperature (0 °C to 70 °C) timing with a propagation delay in the sub-nanosecond range typical of the FLEX 10K embedded array block family. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built from an array of configurable logic elements (LEs), programmable interconnect, and I/O blocks that the user defines after manufacture via a hardware description language (HDL) or schematic capture. The FLEX 10K family was the industry's first family to embed large SRAM-style logic blocks together with dedicated Embedded Array Blocks (EABs), enabling on-chip implementation of megafunctions such as RAM, ROM, and arithmetic units, and it is widely considered the predecessor of modern System-on-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) architectures. The EPF10K50VQC240-3N belongs to the high-density FLEX 10K tier (10K50), differentiating it from lower-density siblings such as the EPF10K10 and EPF10K30. Key differentiating features include: 20,480 typical gate count, integrated EABs for on-chip memory, in-system programmability via the Serial Configuration (Passive) or Active serial modes supported by the FLEX 10K architecture, multi-voltage I/O compatibility with 5.0 V, 3.3 V, and 2.5 V signalling, and JTAG-compliant boundary-scan test per IEEE 1149.1. The device integrates seamlessly with the legacy MAX+PLUS II and Quartus design tool flows, preserving design IP across older Altera ecosystems. Technically, the EPF10K50VQC240-3N uses SRAM configuration cells and requires external configuration memory on every power-up. Its configurable logic blocks (CLBs) feed into Embedded Array Blocks (EABs) that deliver up to 2,048 bits of dual-port RAM per block, while the high-pin-count PQFP240 footprint exposes ample general-purpose I/O for parallel bus and memory interfaces. Typical applications include legacy telecom interface cards, industrial control and factory automation controllers, glue-logic replacement, mid-speed DSP co-processing, and PCI/ISA bus interface prototyping. Engineers commonly select this part to extend the lifecycle of older Altera designs without performing full re-qualification. When designing with this device, ensure that configuration memory and JTAG pull-up resistors are placed within 5 cm of the device to meet the configuration timing specifications. Designers should also verify that I/O signalling levels match the chosen I/O standard (3.3 V LVTTL/LVCMOS by default) and provide a clean 3.3 V core supply with adequate decoupling. Because this part is in the legacy FLEX 10K family, lead-time and lifecycle risks should be reviewed against the Intel Product Discontinuance Program notice before NPI qualification. This page synthesises distributor pricing, same-family drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes that go beyond the manufacturer's PDF datasheet alone, giving engineers and buyers a single authoritative reference for the EPF10K50VQC240-3N.
EPF10K50VQI240-2 - FLEX 10K 50K-Gate FPGA, 189 I/O, 240-Pin PQFP | Altera/Intel
The Altera (now Intel) EPF10K50VQI240-2 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of SRAM-based Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) fabricated on a 0.42 µm CMOS process with embedded array blocks. It integrates approximately 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements (LEs), and 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs) in a 240-pin Power Quad Flat Pack (PQFP / BFQFP-240) package. Operating at 3.3 V core with industrial-grade temperature range (0 °C to +70 °C), the device delivers up to 125 MHz internal operation with 0.6 ns propagation delay, making it suitable for glue logic, bus interfacing, and moderate-complexity state-machine designs of the late-1990s/early-2000s era. A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is a semiconductor IC containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs/LEs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that the designer programs after manufacture using a hardware-description language (VHDL or Verilog). FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs (lowest unit cost, longest NRE) and CPLDs (predictable timing, lower density) in the programmable-logic taxonomy, and the FLEX 10K family was Altera's first to embed dedicated array blocks (EABs) for on-chip RAM and DSP-style functions - the architectural precursor to modern System-on-Chip (SoC) FPGAs. Key features of the EPF10K50VQI240-2 include 189 usable user I/O pins (versus 274 per some legacy listings - the -2 speed grade datasheet documents 189 maximum user I/Os in the 240-pin PQFP), 20,480 bits of embedded memory distributed across EABs, built-in JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) boundary-scan support, and multi-volt I/O capability for interfacing with 5.0 V, 3.3 V, and 2.5 V devices. The 240-pin PQFP with gull-wing leads is a through-hole-style surface-mount package, easy to prototype but larger than modern BGA equivalents. The FLEX 10K architecture pairs a fine-grained LE fabric with coarse-grained Embedded Array Blocks (EABs) used as synchronous RAM, ROM, or arithmetic functions. Each LAB contains eight LEs plus local carry and cascade chains, and the chip-wide FastTrack interconnect routes signals between LABs and I/O elements. This dual-grained architecture allows designers to map both datapath (LUT-based) and memory-intensive (EAB-based) functions efficiently. Typical applications include industrial control boards, telecom interface cards, glue logic between microprocessors and peripherals, legacy PCI bus bridges, and test-and-measurement backplanes where the 3.3 V core and 5 V-tolerant I/O simplify mixed-voltage designs. Designers porting older FLEX 10K designs to current production should plan for end-of-life migration to MAX II, Cyclone, or Lattice MachXO2/XO3 families. When designing with this part, pay attention to the 3.3 V supply rail decoupling and keep configuration EEPROM (EPC2 / EPC16) within the Fast Passive Parallel (FPP) or Passive Serial (PS) configuration interface budget. The legacy PQFP footprint (240 pins at 0.5 mm pitch on a 32 × 32 mm body) limits PCB routing density and rules out high-speed differential signalling beyond ~100 MHz, so use this part for moderate-speed glue logic rather than modern SERDES-heavy designs. This page synthesizes verified distributor inventory, same-brand FLEX 10K drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes that are not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet.
EPF10K50VQI240-2N - FLEX 10K 50K-Gate FPGA, 240-PQFP, Industrial | Altera
The Altera (now Intel) EPF10K50VQI240-2N is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), integrating 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells (logic elements), 360 LABs, and 189 user I/Os in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP / BFQFP) surface-mount package. It operates from a 5V core supply, supports a maximum internal frequency of 125 MHz, and is rated for industrial temperature operation (-40C to +85C ambient for the I-suffix grade). An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that allows designers to configure custom digital logic functions after PCB assembly. FPGAs sit within the broader semiconductor hierarchy as integrated circuits -> programmable logic devices -> FPGAs, complementing CPLDs (which target simpler glue logic) and ASICs (which trade programmability for cost and power at high volume). The FLEX 10K family, introduced by Altera in the mid-1990s, was notable for being the first PLD family to integrate dedicated memory blocks (EABs - Embedded Array Blocks), enabling System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) designs with on-chip RAM, ROM, and FIFO functions. Key features include embedded array blocks (EABs) for implementing megafunctions like efficient memory and specialized logic, 20,480 typical RAM bits distributed across the EABs, multiVolt I/O support for interfacing with 5V, 3.3V, and 2.5V logic, in-system programmability via the serial configuration EPROM interface, and full PCI 2.2 compliance for plug-and-play peripheral designs. The 240-BFQFP (gull-wing) package is a through-hole-compatible surface-mount form factor, which simplifies prototyping on adapter boards and rework in legacy systems. From an architectural perspective, the FLEX 10K family uses a fine-grained, SRAM-based look-up-table (LUT) fabric with continuous, fast interconnect between Logic Array Blocks (LABs) and Embedded Array Blocks (EABs). The 'V' in the part number denotes 5V operation (vs. 'A' for 3.3V ACEX/3V FLEX 10KA variants), 'Q' indicates the PQFP package, 'I' specifies industrial temperature range, '240' is the pin count, and '-2N' is the speed grade (toggled against -1, -3, -4 grades). Typical applications include legacy industrial glue logic replacement, PCI bus interface controllers, telecommunications backplane glue logic, prototyping bridges to ASIC designs, and migration paths for obsolete 5V programmable logic. Its 5V tolerance and large gate count make it a common drop-in for systems originally designed around the FLEX 10K platform. When designing with this device, plan for an SRAM-based configuration memory that must be loaded at every power-up from a serial EPROM (EPC1, EPC2, or compatible). Modern Intel Quartus Prime no longer supports FLEX 10K as a new target; engineers maintaining legacy FLEX 10K designs typically use the legacy MAX+PLUS II toolchain. Ensure the 5V supply is well-decoupled near the VCCINT and VCCIO pins and that JTAG pins TCK/TMS/TDO/TDI are correctly terminated for boundary-scan test. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-brand and cross-brand drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original Altera datasheet - useful for engineers maintaining or modernizing FLEX 10K-based systems in long-lifecycle industrial, telecom, and military programs.
EPF10K50VR1240-4 - 50K FLEX 10K FPGA, 240-Pin BFQFP | Altera
The Altera EPF10K50VR1240-4 is a member of the FLEX 10K Embedded Programmable Logic Device family, delivering approximately 50,000 typical gates in a 240-ball Fine-pitch Ball Grid Array (BFQFP) package with speed grade -4. It is one of the earliest SRAM-based FPGAs to integrate embedded array blocks (EABs), enabling on-chip memory and logic multipliers alongside general-purpose logic elements. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that allows engineers to implement custom digital circuits by configuring an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), interconnect, and I/O cells. FPGAs belong to the larger hierarchy of programmable logic devices -> logic ICs -> integrated circuits -> semiconductors. The FLEX 10K family was Altera's first to embed array blocks, a predecessor of modern FPGA embedded Block RAM. Key features include roughly 2,880 logic elements (per the DigiKey listing of the related I240 variant), 20,480 typical gates, dedicated embedded array blocks for memory, 5V-tolerant I/O on the V-series, and JTAG-based in-system programmability via the ByteBlaster or BitBlaster cable. The architecture supports asynchronous and synchronous RAM and ROM, multipliers via lookup tables, and cascaded EABs for wide memory functions. The EPF10K50VR1240-4 is fabricated on a 0.42 µm CMOS SRAM process and operates from a 5V core supply with 5V/3.3V multi-voltage I/O. The 240-pin BFQFP package exposes approximately 189 user I/O pins, sufficient for glue logic, bus interfacing, and moderate-density state-machine replacement in legacy industrial designs. Typical applications include industrial control and instrumentation, glue logic replacement, telecommunications backplane interfacing, prototyping of ASIC designs, and embedded control planes where moderate logic density, deterministic timing, and 5V tolerance outweigh the need for modern high-speed transceivers. Designers should treat the -4 speed grade as the slowest in the FLEX 10K V-series; pin-compatible -3, -2, and -1 variants yield faster timing closure. A 0.1 µF decoupling cap per VCC pin plus a bulk cap near the package are essential for SRAM configuration-supply noise margin. This page consolidates distributor pricing, parametric comparisons against speed-grade and package variants, and practical design notes for the FLEX 10K family not found in the standalone datasheet.
EPF10K50VRC240-1 - 50K FLEX 10K FPGA, 240-RQFP, 66MHz | Intel
The Intel EPF10K50VRC240-1 is a member of the FLEX 10K family of SRAM-lookup-table-based Field Programmable Gate Arrays, delivering 50,000 typical gates and 2,880 logic elements in a 240-pin RQFP (PQFP with exposed pad) commercial-grade package. It supports up to 274 user I/O, operates from a 3.3 V core supply with MultiVolt I/O compatibility, and targets embedded programmable-logic applications at internal frequencies around 66 MHz. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a programmable-logic device (PLD) whose architecture combines a dense array of configurable logic blocks (LEs), a programmable routing fabric, and embedded memory. FPGAs occupy the middle ground between fixed-function ASICs and small CPLDs - they offer higher gate counts and richer I/O than CPLDs while remaining reprogrammable, unlike ASICs. The FLEX 10K series was the industry's first family to embed an array of SRAM blocks alongside logic, enabling System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) designs where a CPU core, memory, and glue logic coexist on a single device. Key specifications include 2,880 logic elements, 20,480 typical gates, 189 Kbits of embedded SRAM, 240 user I/O, an internal clock frequency up to 66.67 MHz, 0.6 ns propagation delay, and 0.42 µm CMOS process technology. The device also features JTAG boundary-scan test (IEEE 1149.1-1990) support, programmable PCI clamping diodes, slew-rate control, and open-drain output options configured pin-by-pin via the Altera MAX+PLUS II / Quartus design software. The MultiVolt I/O interface separates VCCINT (core supply) from VCCIO (I/O supply), so 5 V-tolerant I/O can be driven from a 3.3 V core - critical when bridging legacy peripherals. The exposed thermal pad on the RQFP-240 package improves heat dissipation for high-utilization designs. Configuration is supported through JTAG, the BitBlaster serial cable, the ByteBlasterMV parallel cable, or the Jam STAPL programming and test language, allowing board-level flexibility. Typical applications include telecommunications glue logic, PCI bridge designs, industrial-control state machines, embedded-protocol bridges, and pre-production ASIC prototyping. The commercial 0-70 °C temperature grade makes it well-suited for indoor enclosures, laboratory instrumentation, and development platforms. When designing with this device, ensure the Quartus MAX+PLUS II toolchain supports the FLEX 10K device family - modern Quartus releases support legacy FLEX devices for compilation. Always confirm supply rails (VCCINT and VCCIO) are decoupled with bulk + ceramic capacitors placed close to the package pins, and respect the exposed-pad soldering guidelines. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in FLEX 10K alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a single decision-making reference for legacy Altera FLEX 10K FPGA designs.
EPF10K50VRC240-1N - FLEX 10K 50K-Gate FPGA, 189 I/O | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VRC240-1N is a FLEX 10K family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements, and 189 user I/Os in a 240-pin Power QFP (BFQFP) package with exposed thermal pad. According to manufacturer and distributor listings, the device is built on a 0.42 µm CMOS process, supports an internal core frequency up to 66.67 MHz, and uses a 3.3 V core supply. It belongs to the industry's first embedded programmable logic device (PLD) family, providing System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration via its embedded array block architecture. What is an FPGA? A Field-Programmable Gate Array is a semiconductor IC composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that engineers can re-program in the field to implement arbitrary digital functions. FPGAs sit above microcontrollers, DSPs, and ASICs in the design flexibility hierarchy: they are slower per gate than ASICs but offer parallel processing, rapid prototyping, and hardware-level reconfigurability that microcontrollers cannot match. The FLEX 10K family pioneered the embedded array block (EAB), which allows on-chip implementation of RAM, ROM, and arithmetic functions alongside the general-purpose logic array. Key features of the EPF10K50VRC240-1N include 20,480 typical logic gates, 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 2,880 logic cells (per DigiKey listing), embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory functions, in-system programmability (ISP) via the serial configuration interface, multi-volt I/O support, and JTAG boundary-scan test per IEEE Std 1149.1. The 'V' in the part number denotes 3.3 V operation, the 'RC240' identifies the 240-pin Power QFP package with exposed pad, the '1' indicates the speed grade, and 'N' indicates a lead-free commercial-temperature version. From an architecture standpoint, the FLEX 10K device integrates continuous interconnect structures (FastTrack) with an array of LABs and EABs, allowing designers to combine wide logic functions with on-chip memory in a single die. The exposed pad on the BFQFP package provides a low-thermal-resistance path for heat dissipation, which is critical at 250 MHz internal operation and 66.67 MHz system performance. Typical applications for the EPF10K50VRC240-1N include communications glue logic, industrial control state machines, PCI bus interfaces, DSP co-processing, prototyping of ASIC designs, and embedded system-on-chip integration. It is also used in legacy telecom infrastructure where the FLEX 10K architecture has long been deployed. When designing with this device, ensure proper decoupling (typically 0.1 µF and 10 µF capacitors near each power pin) and thermal relief through the exposed pad to a sufficient copper pour. Designers should also budget configuration time and choose between serial or parallel configuration modes via the Quartus or MAX+PLUS II design tools. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in FLEX 10K alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EPF10K50VRC240-2 - Flex 10K FPGA, 50K Gates, 240-RQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VRC240-2 is a Flex 10K family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) IC with 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and 189 user I/Os, packaged in a 240-pin RQFP (also described as HFQFP/BQFP with exposed pad). The device operates from a 3.3 V core supply and uses a 0.42 µm CMOS process technology with 5-level metal interconnect. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that contains an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs/LABs) connected through programmable interconnect, allowing hardware designers to implement custom digital logic that can be reconfigured after manufacturing. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable logic hierarchy: PLD -> CPLD -> FPGA -> System-on-Chip FPGA. The Flex 10K series introduced embedded array blocks (EABs) for System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration, combining lookup-table based logic with on-chip RAM. Key features of the EPF10K50VRC240-2 include 20,480 typical logic elements, a maximum internal frequency of approximately 125 MHz (66.67 MHz in some datasheet graphs), a propagation delay of 0.6 ns, and embedded array blocks for memory implementation. The -2 speed grade identifies a mid-range performance bin within the Flex 10K family. The device is graded for commercial operating temperature (0 °C to +70 °C) and ships in surface-mount gull-wing RQFP-240. Architecturally, the Flex 10K combines a fine-grained logic fabric (LABs built from 8 logic elements each) with coarse-grained Embedded Array Blocks (EABs), enabling dense on-chip RAM and product-term logic. The 3.3 V core, 0.42 µm process, and SRAM-based configuration make the part volatile (configuration must be loaded at every power-up from a serial or parallel PROM). Typical applications include glue logic and bus interfaces in telecommunications backplanes, industrial control and instrumentation, prototyping of ASIC-equivalent designs, embedded control in test equipment, and legacy system upgrades where the Flex 10K is already qualified. Designers continue to use EPF10K50VRC240-2 in maintenance and low-volume production of mature platforms. When designing with this part, plan for external configuration memory (an EPC1/EPC2 configuration PROM, or a microcontroller) because SRAM configuration cells lose their contents on power-down. Provide proper decoupling on every VCCINT/VCCIO pin and observe I/O banking rules for mixed-voltage interfaces. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative MPNs from the same Flex 10K family, and practical design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet's tables.
EPF10K50VRC240-2N - 50K-Gate FLEX 10K FPGA, 240-RQFP | Intel
The Intel EPF10K50VRC240-2N is a member of the FLEX 10K family of field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), delivering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements/cells, and 360 logic array blocks (LABs) in a 240-pin RQFP (BFQFP with exposed pad) package. Operating from a 3.3 V supply with a 0.42 µm CMOS process and a maximum internal frequency of 125 MHz, this device targets commercial-temperature digital logic designs that need mid-range density, embedded array blocks (EABs) for RAM/ROM, and 189 user I/Os. The "V" suffix denotes the 3.3 V core supply variant, "RC" indicates the RQFP package, "240" is the pin count, "-2" is the speed grade, and the trailing "N" marks lead-free / Pb-free assembly. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that lets engineers implement arbitrary digital logic - combinational gates, flip-flops, state machines, and memory blocks - by downloading a configuration bitstream after the IC is soldered onto the board. The FLEX 10K series was Intel/Altera's first generation to embed array blocks (EABs) for on-chip dual-port RAM, marking the industry's first System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration. FPGAs sit hierarchically under programmable logic devices (PLDs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), and finally the broader semiconductor / integrated circuit taxonomy. Key features include 50,000 system gates, 20,480 flip-flop-based register bits, 2,880 logic elements, a maximum propagation delay of approximately 0.6 ns (66.67 MHz internal timing reference), 189 programmable I/O pins, four embedded array blocks (EABs) for distributed SRAM, JTAG-based IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan testing, in-system programmability (ISP) via the serial passive configuration scheme, multi-volt I/O support (3.3 V core, 5.0 V-tolerant I/O), and a commercial 0 °C to 70 °C operating range. The exposed pad on the 240-RQFP package improves thermal dissipation during continuous logic switching. The FLEX 10K architecture uses a row/column-based logic array, with each LAB containing eight logic elements (LEs), each LE built around a 4-input look-up table (LUT) plus a programmable flip-flop. EABs provide up to 2 Kbits of dual-port RAM each, allowing on-chip FIFOs, lookup tables, and small scratch-pad memories without external SRAM. Configuration is loaded from a serial EPROM or via the ByteBlaster / JTAG download cable in development flows, and the bitstream is held in SRAM cells so the device is re-programmable in the field an unlimited number of times. Typical applications include custom glue logic in industrial control boards, PCI bridge and bus-interface controllers, telecommunications channel cards, prototyping of ASIC designs before mask production, DSP pre/post-processing pipelines, image processing front-ends, and embedded control subsystems. With 50K gates of usable logic, the EPF10K50VRC240-2N is well-suited to designs that need more capacity than a 10K30 device but do not yet justify the silicon cost of a 10K100 or 10K130. When designing with the EPF10K50VRC240-2N, use the Quartus II (legacy) or MAX+PLUS II toolchain for synthesis, fitting, simulation, and programming file generation. Ensure clean 3.3 V core and I/O rail decoupling, observe the configuration mode wiring (MSEL pins), and respect JTAG chain order if multiple devices share the same boundary-scan bus. Because this device is in the legacy FLEX 10K family, plan for end-of-life (EOL) sourcing via franchised distributors or authorised aftermarket inventory. This page synthesises franchised distributor pricing, same-package FLEX 10K drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not consolidated in the legacy Altera datasheet.
EPF10K50VRC240-3 - 50K Gate Flex 10K FPGA, 189 I/O, 240-RQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EPF10K50VRC240-3 is a member of the classic Flex 10K FPGA family, delivering 50,000 typical gates and 2,880 logic elements in a 240-pin RQFP (BFQFP with exposed pad) package. It is built on a SRAM-based CMOS process and provides 189 user I/Os, 20,480 bits of embedded memory, and supports an internal frequency up to 66.67 MHz with up to 125 MHz performance grades. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a reprogrammable semiconductor device that allows engineers to implement custom digital logic via a configuration bitstream stored in SRAM. The Flex 10K family, launched in the late 1990s, was the industry's first family to embed an array of logic alongside dedicated memory blocks (EABs, Embedded Array Blocks), pioneering the System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) concept. FPGAs sit hierarchically within the broader categories of programmable logic devices (PLDs) and digital integrated circuits. Key features of the EPF10K50VRC240-3 include 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs) with embedded array blocks for distributed dual-port RAM and ROM, four phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, programmable interconnect, and multi-voltage I/O supporting PCI, LVTTL, LVCMOS, and other standards. The 240-pin RQFP package with exposed pad supports both commercial (0°C to 70°C) and industrial temperature grades. Technically, the EPF10K50VRC240-3 uses a 0.42 µm CMOS SRAM process and a 3.3V core supply with 5V-tolerant I/O. The architecture combines 2,880 logic elements organized into 360 LABs, each containing 8 logic elements, and 20 embedded array blocks providing up to 20 Kbits of dual-port RAM. The device supports in-system programmability (ISP) via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary-scan interface and serial configuration, allowing field upgrades. Typical applications include legacy telecom interface cards, industrial control logic, glue logic replacement, and embedded DSP prototyping. Designers often select the EPF10K50VRC240-3 to maintain long-life-cycle industrial or aerospace systems where the original Flex 10K design is already deployed. When designing with the EPF10K50VRC240-3, ensure proper decoupling of all VCCINT and VCCIO pins with 0.1 µF and 10 µF capacitors placed close to the package. The exposed thermal pad must be soldered to a ground plane for mechanical stability and improved thermal performance. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers evaluating the EPF10K50VRC240-3 for new designs or legacy maintenance.
EPF10K50VRC240-3N - 50K-Gate FLEX 10K FPGA, 189 I/O, 240-RQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPF10K50VRC240-3N is a member of the FLEX 10K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) housed in a 240-pin RQFP (Power Quad Flat Pack) package with exposed thermal pad. Built on a 0.42 µm CMOS SRAM-based process, this device integrates 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells (logic elements), 20,480 bits of embedded array memory (EAB), and 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), providing 189 usable I/O pins across the package. According to manufacturer datasheet data, the part operates from a 3.3 V core supply, supports internal frequencies up to 125 MHz, and is qualified for the commercial 0 °C to +70 °C temperature range. What is a FLEX 10K FPGA? The FLEX 10K family was one of the industry's first embedded programmable logic device families, providing System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration. It combines a fine-grained Logic Element (LE) fabric with coarse-grained Embedded Array Blocks (EABs) that can be configured as RAM, ROM, or multiplier blocks. As an SRAM-based PLD, the FLEX 10K sits within the broader hierarchy: programmable logic device -> PLD -> FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> embedded-array FPGA -> FLEX 10K family. The 'V' suffix in the package code denotes the 240-RQFP option, and the speed grade '-3' places it in the mid-tier of FLEX 10K performance bins. Key differentiating features of the EPF10K50VRC240-3N include its 189 available user I/Os, the high-density 360-LAB fabric that allows efficient state-machine and datapath partitioning, 0.42 µm CMOS process for low static power, and propagation delay figures consistent with a -3 speed grade at 0.6 ns internal. Each EAB provides 2,048 bits of memory that can be cascaded to form FIFOs, ROM look-up tables, or DSP multiplier blocks. The device is in-system programmable through the Altera/Quartus ByteBlaster or compatible JTAG-style configuration paths. Architecturally, the FLEX 10K combines a sea-of-LEs routing fabric with embedded array blocks arranged in columns. Configuration is stored in SRAM cells, meaning the device must be reconfigured on every power-up - the configuration bitstream is typically loaded from a serial PROM. The 'RC240' package suffix identifies the 240-pin Power QFP with exposed thermal pad for improved heat dissipation at high toggle rates. Typical applications include industrial glue logic replacement, communications protocol bridging, and legacy ASIC prototyping. Engineers select this part when migrating older Altera designs to a known-stable platform, or when the specific I/O count and LAB density match an existing PCB layout. The 240-RQFP package is also well-suited to designs where fine-pitch BGA rework tools are not available, since QFP leads are easier to inspect and rework with conventional soldering equipment. When designing with this part, observe the 3.3 V I/O and core supply requirements and use the Quartus II design software (or compatible legacy tools) for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing closure. Confirm whether active inventory is needed or whether the legacy part can be replaced with a newer Cyclone device - the FLEX 10K family has been superseded by Intel's Cyclone and MAX families for new designs.
EPF10K50VRC240-4 - 50K Gate FLEX-10K FPGA, 240-Pin RQFP | Altera / Intel
The Altera / Intel EPF10K50VRC240-4 is a member of the FLEX-10K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) featuring 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements (LEs), 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and 189 user I/Os in a 240-pin RQFP package with exposed pad. It operates from a 3.3 V core supply and is rated commercial temperature grade 0C to +70C, with internal frequency performance up to 125 MHz in the -4 speed grade. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs / LABs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that engineers can re-program in the field after PCB assembly. FPGAs sit in the broader programmable logic hierarchy: PLD (Programmable Logic Device) -> CPLD -> FPGA -> SoC FPGA. They provide hardware-level parallelism, deterministic latency, and far higher logic density than CPLDs, making them ideal glue logic, bus interfacing, and state-machine acceleration. The FLEX-10K family specifically pioneered embedded array blocks (EABs) for on-chip RAM/ROM, enabling System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) integration before the modern SoC FPGA era. Key features of the EPF10K50VRC240-4 include 20,480 typical gates, 2,880 logic cells, 360 LABs, 189 maximum user I/O pins, 4 input look-up tables per LE, JTAG IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan support, multi-volt I/O support (5.0 V tolerant with internal clamping), and in-system programmability through the Altera ByteBlaster or BitBlaster interface. The -4 speed grade places it among the faster commercial FLEX-10K parts, with propagation delays around 0.6 ns per logic element in optimized paths. Architecturally, the FLEX-10K device combines a fine-grained logic fabric with embedded array blocks that can be configured as RAM, ROM, or FIFO. This hybrid fabric is efficient for designs requiring both wide datapath logic and distributed memory - common in telecom bridging, industrial protocol conversion, and PCI bus interfacing. Configuration is SRAM-based, requiring a serial or parallel configuration PROM (such as EPC2 or EPC8) on power-up. Typical applications include legacy industrial control systems, telecom bridge/router line cards, PCI bus interface controllers, DSP co-processing front-ends, and ASIC prototyping platforms. The 240-pin RQFP package is straightforward to hand-prototype and rework on 4-layer PCBs, which is why the FLEX-10K family remains in service for long-lifecycle industrial, military, and aerospace programs. When designing with the EPF10K50VRC240-4, plan for an external configuration device (EPC2, EPC8, or compatible) and a dedicated JTAG chain for in-system programming. Decoupling requires at least 0.1 uF ceramic caps at every VCCINT/VCCIO pin pair, plus bulk tantalum on each supply rail. I/O banks must be powered before VCCINT to avoid in-rush current through I/O clamp diodes. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-brand speed-grade variants, application companion parts, and practical design notes for legacy FLEX-10K FPGA designs.