FPGA & CPLD
Products (6358)
EP1C6F256C7NAB - Cyclone FPGA, 6K LEs, 256-BGA | Intel/Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) Cyclone EP1C6F256C7NAB is a low-cost, low-power SRAM-based Field-Programmable Gate Array built on a 1.5V, 0.13 µm process, providing 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/Os in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package. It belongs to the original Cyclone family introduced in 2003 as the industry's lowest-cost FPGA family for high-volume applications such as digital signal processing, embedded control, and communications. The -C7 speed grade denotes a commercial temperature range of 0C to +85C with a balanced timing/power profile. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be electrically reconfigured by the customer after manufacturing. FPGAs sit above microcontrollers and ASICs in the digital logic hierarchy, providing high parallelism, deterministic timing, and hardware-level customization. The Cyclone family specifically targets cost-sensitive, high-volume markets - it integrates embedded multipliers, embedded memory, and a Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) clock network into a single homogeneous logic fabric, eliminating the need for external complex logic or memory components in many designs. Key features include two PLLs for clock management and frequency synthesis, embedded 18×18 multipliers suitable for DSP blocks, distributed and block RAM, and support for common I/O standards such as LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and LVDS. The 256-pin BGA package provides high I/O density within a compact 17×17 mm footprint, making it suitable for space-constrained designs. Configuration can be performed via JTAG, Active Serial (AS), or Passive Serial (PS) modes, supported by the Quartus II development toolchain. Architecturally, the Cyclone FPGA uses a four-input Look-Up Table (LUT) based logic element with embedded RAM and full-routing interconnect, optimized for the Quartus II tool flow. The C7 speed grade offers typical toggle rates up to 250 MHz for general logic, with deterministic logic utilization suitable for control-plane and data-plane bridge applications. Typical applications include industrial control interfaces, video and image processing pipelines, low-cost digital signal processing boards, communications protocol bridges, and high-volume consumer electronics requiring flexible logic. It is also widely used as a glue-logic replacement for multiple discrete CPLDs and standard logic ICs in legacy designs. When designing with this part, engineers should note that the original Cyclone family uses 1.5V core voltage (VCCINT) with separate VCCIO bank supplies. The 256-FBGA requires PCB design rules with controlled impedance routing and clean power decoupling. Configuration memory must be loaded at every power-up; this part supports both serial and JTAG programming. This page synthesizes distributor inventory, parametric comparison versus same-family Cyclone variants, and practical design notes not found in a single manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers evaluate EP1C6F256C7NAB for both new designs and legacy board sustainment.
EP1C6F256C8 - Cyclone FPGA 5980 LE, 185 I/O | Altera
The Intel (Altera) EP1C6F256C8 is a low-cost Cyclone-family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 bits of embedded RAM, and 185 user I/O pins in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA) package. It is an SRAM-based programmable logic device intended for parallel processing, bus interfacing, and hardware acceleration in embedded systems. An FPGA is a digital integrated circuit whose logic fabric is configured after manufacturing. Unlike fixed-function ASICs, an FPGA contains programmable lookup tables, routing, and I/O buffers; users describe logic in HDL and program it via a configuration bitstream. FPGAs occupy a flexible position between processors and ASICs, providing low-to-moderate parallelism, low NRE, and field revision capability. Key verified characteristics of the EP1C6F256C8 are 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 total RAM bits, 185 user I/O pins, and a reported clock operation speed of 275.03 MHz. The device belongs to the original Altera Cyclone family, is offered in a 256-ball BGA package with speed grade 8, and uses supply and I/O planes typical of first-generation low-cost FPGAs. The Cyclone architecture is built around SRAM configuration cells, logic array blocks, embedded memory columns, and programmable I/O buffers. Because the device is SRAM-based, the FPGA must be configured at system power-on from an external configuration device or from a host using JTAG or passive serial schemes. Designers should include configuration logic in the system plan. Typical applications for the EP1C6F256C8 include industrial motor control, protocol conversion, smart display processing, test equipment, and data acquisition. The 185 available user I/O pins support parallel microprocessor buses, memory interfaces, and multi-channel UART or SPI implementations when combined with soft intellectual property. One key design consideration is that the FPGA is volatile: an external configuration memory or host download path is required at every power-up. For designs operating near 275 MHz, careful power-supply decoupling, controlled impedance routing, and a clean ground/power plane stackup are recommended for reliable BGA operation. This XAIPART component page aggregates verified distributor specifications, current pricing, drop-in Cyclone alternative speed and temperature variants, application guidance, and practical design notes that are not all repeated in a single datasheet view, helping engineers make a faster and more confident FPGA sourcing decision.
EP1C6F256C8N - Cyclone FPGA 6K LE 256-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6F256C8N is a Cyclone-series Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) built on a 1.5 V core, 0.13 µm SRAM process, offering 5,980 logic elements (LEs) and 92,160 RAM bits in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA-256) package. The device is specified for the commercial temperature range (0 °C to +85 °C) and is speed-grade 8. It provides up to 185 user I/O pins and integrates two PLL blocks for clock management, making it a low-cost, high-volume programmable logic option for glue logic, custom interfaces, and parallel processing pipelines. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of integrated circuit containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory, routing channels, and programmable I/O cells that engineers can re-program in the field after manufacture. Within the broader semiconductor hierarchy, FPGAs sit alongside microcontrollers, DSPs, and ASICs as programmable logic devices, and Cyclone-family parts occupy Intel's low-cost, high-volume tier of that hierarchy. They are widely used to replace discrete glue logic, accelerate parallel data paths, and bridge mismatched interfaces without committing to an ASIC NRE. Key features of the EP1C6F256C8N include 5,980 LEs, 92,160 bits of embedded RAM (~11.25 KB), 185 user I/Os, two PLLs, and support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and LVDS I/O standards. The Cyclone architecture uses 4-input look-up tables (4-LUTs) per LE and dedicated carry-chain routing for arithmetic, providing predictable timing closure for state machines and DSP-style datapaths up to the device's logic-capacity ceiling. The device is fabricated on a 1.5 V core, 0.13 µm process, and supports configuration via passive serial (PS), active serial (AS), and JTAG modes. The 256-ball FBGA package has a 17 mm × 17 mm body with a 1.0 mm ball pitch, suitable for multi-layer FR4 PCBs. Each user I/O is organized into banks with per-bank VCCIO rails that can be mixed between 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, and 3.3 V, allowing direct interfacing to memories and processors of different voltage generations on the same board. Typical applications for this Cyclone device include industrial control and factory automation backplanes, video and image processing pre-processing pipelines, communications protocol bridging (UART, SPI, I2C, parallel bus glue logic), and consumer-electronics display controllers. Designers also use Cyclone FPGAs as low-cost I/O expanders for embedded processors, custom peripheral controllers, and rapid ASIC prototyping. When designing with the EP1C6F256C8N, observe the I/O-bank VCCIO rules: each bank has its own voltage reference, and mixing 3.3 V LVTTL with 1.5 V SSTL inputs in the same bank is not allowed. Decouple every VCCINT and VCCIO pin with 0.1 µF X7R ceramic capacitors placed as close to the balls as possible, and route the JTAG TCK/TMS/TDO/TDI signals with 4.7 kΩ pull-ups on TCK/TMS to ensure reliable configuration. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-family drop-in speed-grade alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original Cyclone datasheet, giving procurement and design engineers a consolidated reference for the EP1C6F256C8N.
EP1C6F256I7 - Cyclone FPGA, 5980 LE, 185 I/O, 256-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6F256I7 is a Cyclone-family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) built on a 130 nm process, delivering 5,980 logic elements across 598 LABs, with 92,160 bits of embedded RAM and 185 user I/O, housed in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package. It is specified for the industrial temperature range (-40C to +100C case) and operates from a 1.5 V core supply, making it suitable for cost-sensitive, moderate-density logic designs where power and cost are balanced against density. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit whose digital logic function is defined after manufacture by the user, via a configuration bitstream loaded into on-chip SRAM. The Cyclone family sits in the low-power, low-cost tier of Intel's FPGA portfolio, sitting hierarchically below Cyclone II/III/IV/V and above MAX CPLDs in the company's programmable-logic taxonomy. FPGAs are most often chosen when an application requires parallelism, custom I/O timing, or hardware acceleration that microcontrollers and DSPs cannot deliver economically. Key features of the EP1C6F256I7 include two PLL blocks for clock synthesis and skew management, support for multiple I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, and LVDS on selected banks), embedded multipliers for DSP-style arithmetic, and a configuration scheme compatible with active serial (AS), passive serial (PS), and JTAG modes. The device's RAM blocks total 92 Kbits, distributed across the fabric for efficient FIFO and buffering implementations. Architecturally, the EP1C6F256I7 uses a 4-input LUT-based logic element with associated carry chain for fast arithmetic and an adjacent programmable register. Interconnect uses Altera's MultiTrack routing fabric with row and column lines optimized for typical designs at 100-200 MHz system clock rates. Embedded multiplier blocks accelerate DSP operations without consuming general logic resources. Typical applications include industrial control interfaces, low-cost video processing bridges, custom peripheral glue logic, motor control co-processors, and protocol bridging (UART/SPI/I2C to parallel buses). The 256-FBGA footprint also makes it a common choice for space-constrained prototypes migrating from larger QFP-packaged FPGAs. When designing with this device, note that the FBGA package requires X-ray or BGA rework for prototyping - engineers typically use a socketed development board first. Configuration storage requires a separate serial configuration device (EPCS1/EPCS4), and unused I/O banks should be powered according to the datasheet to avoid leakage. JTAG access via the dedicated TCK/TMS/TDI/TDO pins is the recommended bring-up path. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-family Cyclone drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original datasheet alone.
EP1C6F256I7L - Cyclone FPGA, 5,980 LEs, 256-BGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP1C6F256I7L is a member of the first-generation Cyclone FPGA family, delivering 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/Os in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA) package. The "L" suffix denotes a Pb-free lead-free finish, while the "I7" speed grade with industrial temperature rating (-40C to +100C junction) makes it suitable for harsh-environment embedded designs. The device is fabricated on a 1.5 V, 0.13 µm SRAM-based process with on-chip configuration memory that is loaded at power-up from an external serial or parallel flash. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor IC containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated hardware blocks (memory, multipliers, PLLs, I/O) that engineers can re-program after manufacture. FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs (lowest per-unit cost, no flexibility) and microcontrollers (sequential, lower throughput) in the digital design hierarchy: FPGA -> programmable logic -> digital IC -> semiconductor. They are used when parallel processing, deterministic latency, or hardware-level customization is required. Cyclone was Altera's first low-cost FPGA family, intended to displace ASICs in glue-logic, bridging, and DSP-front-end designs. Key features of the EP1C6F256I7L include 20 M4K embedded RAM blocks (each 4 Kbit, true dual-port, with parity), 2 embedded PLLs with clock-multiplication and phase-shift capability, and support for external memory interfaces including DDR SDRAM and QDR SRAM via dedicated DQS pins. The device supports single-ended I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, HSTL) on most pins and LVDS up to 303 Mbps on designated pairs. Configuration is via passive serial (PS), active serial (AS), or JTAG. Typical applications for the EP1C6F256I7L span industrial control boards, video frame buffers, protocol bridging (I2C/SPI to UART/GPIO), motor-control pre-processing, and low-density DSP front-ends. Its 256-FBGA package and 1.5 V core provide a balanced cost / integration point for designs that exceed CPLD capacity but do not justify a Cyclone II / III / IV migration. Designers should budget at least one configuration flash (e.g., EPCS4) and a JTAG header for in-system programming. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C6F256I7N - Cyclone FPGA, 5980 LE, 256-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6F256I7N is a Cyclone-family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 bits of embedded RAM, and 185 user I/Os in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package measuring 17 x 17 mm with 1.0 mm pitch. Built on a 130 nm CMOS process, the device operates from a 1.5 V core supply (1.425 V to 1.575 V) and supports commercial-to-industrial temperature grades per the I7N speed/temperature suffix. Maximum internal operating frequency is specified up to 250 MHz with PLL support for clock multiplication and phase shifting. What is an FPGA? A Field Programmable Gate Array is a semiconductor device containing configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated hard IP such as block RAM, multipliers, PLLs, and I/O serializers. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable-logic hierarchy, above CPLDs and PALs, and provide a hardware-parallel alternative to microcontrollers and DSPs for high-throughput, low-latency digital signal processing. The Cyclone family specifically targets cost-sensitive, high-volume applications by trimming unused features of Altera's Stratix line while retaining the Quartus II design-tool ecosystem. Key features include two embedded PLLs, up to 20 global clock networks, dedicated DDR SDRAM interface support, 2 True-LVDS differential I/O pairs, and a passive serial configuration interface that loads bitstreams from low-cost EPCS configuration flash. The 1.5 V core and 3.3 V/2.5 V/1.8 V multi-voltage I/O banks are supplied through independent VCCINT, VCCIO, and VCCA pins, simplifying mixed-voltage board designs. The -I7 speed grade specifies a -40 C to +100 C industrial junction operating range. The Cyclone I architecture uses 4-input look-up tables (LUTs) arranged in Logic Array Blocks (LABs) of 10 LUTs each, with embedded M4K RAM blocks (4 Kbit each, true dual-port) and 18 x 18 hardware multipliers distributed across the fabric. The LE-to-RAM ratio makes the EP1C6 well-suited for glue-logic replacement, custom bus bridges, motor-control state machines, and low-channel-count video processing. Typical applications include industrial motor control, factory automation I/O expansion, low-density video capture/display bridging, medical instrumentation front-ends, and legacy parallel-bus-to-GPI/Ethernet bridging. The 185 user I/Os are sufficient for 32-bit parallel camera interfaces, RGB888 LCD panels, or multi-bank UART/SPI expansion. The wide operating temperature range also makes the device a popular choice for automotive interior modules and outdoor signage controllers. When designing with the EP1C6F256I7N, pay particular attention to the multi-rail decoupling scheme: a minimum of one 100 uF bulk plus 0.1 uF + 1 nF ceramics per VCCINT/VCCIO pin pair is recommended. The exposed die paddle of the FBGA-256 package must be soldered to a thermal pad with adequate vias for heat extraction, especially at sustained toggle rates above 100 MHz on more than 50 percent of the I/O. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives within the Cyclone family, and practical design notes beyond what the manufacturer datasheet alone provides, helping engineers and procurement teams make faster, more confident sourcing decisions.
EP1C6F256I8N - Cyclone FPGA, 6K LE, 256-BGA | Intel (Altera)
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6F256I8N is a member of the first-generation Cyclone FPGA family, delivering 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package, with an industrial temperature grade (I8N suffix denoting -40C to +100C operating range). Built on a 0.13-um SRAM-based process, the Cyclone EP1C6 is a low-cost programmable logic device that targets high-volume, cost-sensitive designs where ASIC-class integration is not economical. A field programmable gate array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated I/O elements that an engineer can program after manufacture to implement arbitrary digital logic. Within the broader integrated circuit hierarchy, FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs (high NRE, low unit cost at scale) and discrete logic/microcontrollers (flexible software, but limited by fixed hardware). The Cyclone family specifically occupies the low-density, low-cost tier of Altera/Intel's FPGA portfolio, designed for glue logic, bus bridging, DSP pre/post-processing, and parallel I/O expansion. The EP1C6F256I8N integrates 5,980 logic elements (LEs), 92,160 bits of embedded RAM (M4K blocks), two PLLs, and supports up to 185 LVTTL/LVCMOS/LVDS/SSTL user I/Os. Configuration is via passive serial (PS), active serial (AS), or JTAG modes, supporting Altera EPCS1/EPCS4/EPCS16 serial configuration devices. The 256-ball FineLine BGA provides high pin density at manageable PCB routing complexity, making it suitable for space-constrained industrial, communications, and consumer designs. Architecturally, the Cyclone EP1C6 employs a 4-input look-up-table (LUT) based LE with dedicated carry chain for arithmetic, distributed and block RAM for memory, and per-pin tri-state buffers for bus-oriented interfacing. The device supports LVDS signaling at up to 640 Mbps, DDR SDRAM interfaces with dedicated DQS strobe circuitry, and integrated multipliers for DSP operations. Two PLLs provide clock multiplication, division, phase shifting, and duty-cycle correction for system clock management. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation backplanes, telecommunications line cards and protocol bridging, video processing front-ends, motor control and drive interfaces, and consumer electronics requiring parallel DSP pipelines. Designers also choose the EP1C6 for legacy design maintenance, cost-sensitive retrofits, and as a flexible replacement for multiple discrete logic ICs on a single board. When designing with the EP1C6F256I8N, careful attention must be paid to power sequencing (VCCINT before VCCIO), JTAG chain integrity for in-system programming, and thermal management in enclosed housings. For new designs, designers should evaluate the Cyclone IV E family as the modern, low-power successor; the EP1C6 remains in service for legacy platforms and long-life industrial deployments.
EP1C6Q24017N - Cyclone FPGA, 6K LEs, 240-Pin PQFP | Altera
The Altera EP1C6Q24017N is a member of the original Cyclone FPGA family delivering 5,980 logic elements in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) package with speed grade 7 and commercial temperature rating. It integrates 92,160 RAM bits and supports up to 185 user I/O pins. The device is fabricated on a 1.5 V, 0.13 µm SRAM-based process and is supplied in Pb-free (lead-free) configuration. According to Altera's Cyclone Family datasheet, the part supports configuration via serial configuration devices, JTAG, and passive/active serial modes, making it flexible for prototyping and low-volume production. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device consisting of an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells. FPGAs fill the hierarchy: programmable logic -> programmable logic device -> FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> semiconductor. Unlike fixed-function ASICs, FPGAs can be reconfigured in-system to implement arbitrary digital logic, digital signal processing blocks, embedded memory, and soft-core processors. Key features include 92,160 bits of embedded RAM organized as M4K blocks, two PLLs for clock management, support for LVDS I/O, and dedicated DDR SDRAM interfaces. The 240-pin PQFP form factor provides ample pin count for parallel bus interfaces, video processing pipelines, and multi-channel data acquisition. Per Altera documentation, Cyclone devices consume as little as 1.5 V core supply while supporting industry-standard I/O voltages. Architecturally, the Cyclone family employs a 4-input LUT-based logic element with a dedicated register, routing architecture optimized for high-utilization designs, and embedded multiplier blocks for DSP workloads. The device supports the Quartus II design toolchain, which provides synthesis, place-and-route, simulation, and programming file generation. Typical applications include industrial motor control, telecom line cards, video processing, low-cost prototyping, glue logic replacement, and digital signal processing front-ends. The combination of modest logic density, low unit cost, and proven Quartus support makes the EP1C6 ideal for cost-sensitive production. When designing with this device, ensure the supply rails (VCCINT, VCCIO banks) are decoupled per the reference schematic, and configure the JTAG chain carefully when multiple devices are cascaded. Compared to newer Cyclone IV/V parts, the original Cyclone lacks true LVDS at full speed and offers fewer PLLs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet. Engineers can compare alternatives and select a drop-in replacement sourced from Altera's Cyclone family.
EP1C6Q2408N - Cyclone FPGA, 5,980 LE, PQFP-240 | Intel
The Intel EP1C6Q2408N is an Altera Cyclone FPGA offering 5,980 logic elements, a family maximum clock frequency of 275.03 MHz, 130 nm process technology, and a 1.5 V core, supplied in a 240-pin PQFP (Q240) package. A field-programmable gate array is a semiconductor device containing a fabric of configurable logic blocks, embedded memory, and programmable I/O that can be reconfigured to implement arbitrary digital logic. FPGAs are a subclass of programmable logic devices and sit above simpler CPLDs in the digital logic hierarchy. The Cyclone family was introduced by Altera as a low-cost, high-volume FPGA platform, and this EP1C6 member is used when a design needs moderate logic density, flexible I/O standards, and parallel hardware execution without the non-recurring cost of an ASIC. Key features of this device include 5,980 logic elements, a 1.5 V core supply optimized for the 130 nm process, and availability in a 240-pin PQFP well suited to board-level prototyping and legacy production designs. The N suffix indicates a lead-free finish in Altera ordering. As a first-generation Cyclone FPGA, the device uses SRAM-based configuration and therefore requires external configuration memory or a host controller at power-up. From an architectural perspective, the EP1C6Q2408N integrates the Cyclone logic array, embedded RAM blocks, and programmable clock networks. The family datasheet reports a typical family speed of 275.03 MHz, with actual achievable clock rates dependent on speed grade, logic placement, and I/O standards. Because the device is SRAM-based, bitstream loading through JTAG, passive serial, or active serial configuration interfaces must be planned as part of the system design. Typical applications include industrial motor control, factory automation, medical monitoring and imaging, display bridging, and test equipment where FPGA flexibility and deterministic hardware timing are valuable. The 240-pin PQFP allows moderate I/O counts for parallel buses, encoders, ADCs, and communication interfaces. A key design consideration is the 1.5 V core supply: users should generate this rail with a clean regulator and place adequate decoupling close to the FPGA. Verify the exact user I/O count, RAM bits, PLL count, and temperature grade from the manufacturer pin list before finalizing the schematic because the fetched web data did not enumerate them. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in Cyclone-family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in a single manufacturer datasheet, making it useful for engineers replacing or maintaining mature Altera Cyclone designs.
EP1C6Q240C6 - Cyclone FPGA 5980 LE 185 I/O | Altera
The Altera EP1C6Q240C6 is a Cyclone-family field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 5,980 logic elements, 5,980 cells, 185 user I/O pins, and 92,160 bits of embedded RAM, implemented in 130 nm technology with a 1.5 V core supply and housed in a 240-pin PQFP / BFQFP package. This commercial temperature grade, speed grade 6 device supports an internal clock frequency up to 405.2 MHz, making it a low-cost programmable-logic building block for legacy and mid-density digital systems. A field-programmable gate array is a reconfigurable integrated circuit whose logic fabric and interconnects are programmed after manufacturing instead of being fixed in the silicon. FPGA sits inside the programmable logic hierarchy: FPGA -> programmable logic device -> integrated circuit -> semiconductor. Unlike a microcontroller, an FPGA executes massively parallel gate-level functions; unlike a CPLD, it achieves much larger logic capacity and typically uses SRAM-based configuration with an external boot device. The EP1C6Q240C6 belongs to the first-generation Cyclone family, designed for cost-sensitive applications that need hundreds of I/O pins and thousands of logic elements without ASIC NRE costs. Key features of the EP1C6Q240C6 include 598 LABs representing 5,980 logic elements, 185 user I/O pins, 92,160 total RAM bits, 1.5 V core supply, and a 240-pin PQFP package with gull-wing terminals. The C6 suffix designates commercial temperature grade and speed grade 6. According to the Altera Cyclone datasheet and aggregate parametric listings, the device can sustain an internal clock frequency of 405.2 MHz, and it runs from a lower 1.5 V core rail than older 5 V/3.3 V programmable logic. Technically, the EP1C6Q240C6 is built on a 130 nm low-cost process and is one of several density variants in the Cyclone family. The 240-pin PQFP package is a relatively large but board-friendly package for high-I/O FPGAs, offering 185 usable user I/O pins and a square footprint. Since the device is SRAM-based, it must be configured at every power-up from an external configuration device such as an Altera EPC or EPCS serial device, or be loaded through JTAG. It does not contain high-speed serial transceivers, but that is acceptable for parallel bus, control, and data-path applications. Typical applications for the EP1C6Q240C6 include industrial control glue logic, protocol bridging between parallel buses, test instrumentation front-end logic, and teaching or prototyping platforms. Its 5,980 LEs and 185 I/O pins enable implementation of soft microcontrollers, address decoders, PWM generators, interface converters, image-sensor timing logic, and digital signal processing helper circuitry. A key design consideration is that the FPGA core requires a clean 1.5 V rail with adequate decoupling. Equally important, because it is an SRAM FPGA, the configuration bitstream must be loaded immediately after power-up; using an EPCS configuration device or JTAG during development is mandatory. For new designs, verify the exact I/O-voltage standards and PLL resources against the full pinout tables before PCB release. This page synthesizes distributor inventory and pricing, same-family drop-in alternatives, and practical FPGA design notes that are not always reproduced on datasheet aggregation sites, allowing engineers to evaluate the EP1C6Q240C6 quickly for repair, legacy redesign, or surplus sourcing.
EP1C6Q240C6N Cyclone FPGA 185 I/O 240-Pin | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP1C6Q240C6N is a Cyclone® I field-programmable gate array (FPGA) containing 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, 2 PLLs, and 185 user I/Os, packaged in a 240-pin BFQFP/PQFP. This -6 speed-grade commercial device accepts a 1.5 V core supply and supports multiple I/O voltages, making it a practical mid-density programmable logic choice for control, interface, and signal-processing applications. An FPGA is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric can be configured after manufacturing using a hardware description language. Unlike fixed-function ASICs, FPGAs allow designers to implement custom digital logic in days and to update functionality in the field. The EP1C6Q240C6N sits in the hierarchy FPGA → programmable logic device → embedded semiconductor. It is used when an MCU does not have enough parallel I/O or when custom, high-speed logic must be implemented without the non-recurring expense of a custom chip. Key features of the EP1C6Q240C6N include 5,980 logic elements organized as 598 LABs, 20 M4K RAM blocks giving 92,160 total RAM bits, two PLLs, and 185 general-purpose user I/O pins. The package is a 240-pin BFQFP with a commercial operating range of 0°C to 85°C. The N suffix indicates lead-free, RoHS-compliant packaging. These resources support state machines, datapaths, soft-core processors, and parallel bus interfaces while the PLLs enable clock multiplication and phase alignment. The Cyclone I architecture separates the 1.5 V VCCINT core supply from the I/O supply, allowing each I/O bank to interface to 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, or 3.3 V logic. The fabric is SRAM-based, so the device must be configured from an external source, such as an Altera EPCS configuration device or a JTAG download. The -6 speed grade is the fastest standard commercial grade available in this family, providing lower propagation delays and higher achievable clock rates than -7 or -8 variants. Typical applications include industrial motor-control logic, PLC I/O expansion, test-and-measurement interface boards, video capture preprocessing, and communication bridging between processor buses. The 185 user I/Os are especially valuable when many parallel inputs and outputs must be monitored or controlled at deterministic timing. When designing with this device, plan for configuration storage and ensure all I/O bank voltages are connected according to the standards you use. The 1.5 V core should be adequately decoupled, and the power sequence should respect VCCINT and VCCIO requirements described in the Cyclone FPGA family data sheet. This page combines distributor pricing, verified availability, drop-in family alternatives, and design guidance that is not repeated in the manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a convenient cross-reference for lifecycle and procurement decisions.
EP1C6Q240C7 - Cyclone FPGA 5,980 LE, 92Kb RAM | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP1C6Q240C7 is a Cyclone I field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/Os, supplied in a 240-pin BFQFP package. It is a commercial-temperature, speed-grade 7 member of the low-cost Cyclone family, historically used in communication, industrial, and test equipment where configurable digital logic is required. An FPGA is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric can be configured after manufacturing. In the device hierarchy, an FPGA belongs to programmable logic devices and sits above discrete glue logic in design flexibility. The Cyclone I FPGA is SRAM-based, so it must load a configuration bitstream from an external configuration device, a host processor, or a JTAG cable at power-up. Unlike an ASIC, the EP1C6Q240C7 can be reprogrammed in-system, enabling late design changes, protocol updates, and shorter development schedules for medium-volume boards. Key features visible in verified distributor data include 5,980 logic elements, 598 logic array blocks, 92,160 total RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins. The core logic is fabricated on a 130 nm process and operates from a 1.5 V supply, helping reduce dynamic power compared with older 2.5 V FPGAs. The 240-pin BFQFP package provides a manageable quad flat pack layout for cost-sensitive boards and manual or reflow assembly. The device architecture consists of logic elements grouped into LABs, embedded memory blocks for distributed buffering, and programmable interconnect that connects I/O pins to the core. With 598 LABs, designers can implement counters, state machines, decoders, small soft processors, and parallel bus interfaces. The 92,160 RAM bits support FIFOs, small packet buffers, and register files without adding external SRAM. The 185 user I/Os allow a high pin count for parallel busses and chip-to-chip interfaces. Typical applications include industrial controller I/O expansion, protocol bridging, data acquisition front ends, custom video timing generation, and FPGA prototyping. Because the part is an SRAM FPGA, it is particularly useful when the exact logic function is still evolving or when the same board must support multiple interface standards by changing only the configuration bitstream. One important design consideration is that the core requires a clean 1.5 V supply and a valid configuration source before user I/O can operate. Designers must handle power-up sequencing, strap the mode-select pins for the intended configuration scheme, and provide a configuration clock to the EPCS or download cable. Unused I/O pins should be assigned as inputs with weak pull-ups or driven to defined levels in the Quartus project to avoid floating nodes. This page synthesizes distributor stock signals, drop-in Intel/Altera family alternatives, comparison data, and practical design notes that are not all found in the brief distributor snippets. It is intended to help engineers quickly evaluate EP1C6Q240C7 for legacy FPGA designs and define the fastest safe migration path within the same 240-pin package.
EP1C6Q240C7N - Cyclone FPGA, 5980 LE, QFP-240 | Intel
The Intel EP1C6Q240C7N is a Cyclone field-programmable gate array (FPGA) containing 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins in a 240-pin BFQFP package. It belongs to the first-generation Cyclone family originally developed by Altera and now supported by Intel. The -7 speed grade and lead-free “N” finish make this component suitable for logic integration applications that require moderate density, flexible I/O, and a surface-mount quad flat pack that is easier to route than a fine-pitch BGA. A field-programmable gate array is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric can be configured after manufacturing, unlike a fixed-function ASIC or standard logic device. The FPGA is the most flexible member of the programmable logic family, sitting above CPLDs in capacity and below high-end 28 nm and 16 nm FPGAs in complexity. Designers use FPGAs when time-to-market, reconfigurability, or parallel processing requirements outweigh the per-unit cost advantages of a fixed ASIC. In a typical system hierarchy, an FPGA belongs to “Programmable Logic ICs > FPGA > SRAM-based FPGA,” and the EP1C6 is one of the small-to-medium members of that category. Key verified specifications from distributor and datasheet-index data include 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins in a 240-BFQFP package. As a Cyclone EP1C6 part, it provides the architectural balance of look-up-table logic, embedded memory, and multiple I/O banks. The -7 speed grade is the mainstream commercial speed option in this family, while the “N” suffix indicates a RoHS-compliant lead-free assembly. The 240-pin PQFP package has a relatively large pitch and wide availability of low-cost testing sockets, making it practical for prototype and low-to-medium volume applications. Architecturally, the Cyclone EP1C6 uses an SRAM-based configuration fabric and must be loaded from an external configuration device or host at power-up. The device includes dedicated clock networks and multiple I/O banks, though the verified web snippets do not provide exhaustive details about PLL count, core voltage, or special transceivers. The 185 user I/O count allows a wide parallel bus to be brought out to the PCB, which is useful for SDR, motor control, and simple video capture. The 92,160 RAM bits support shallow FIFOs and line buffers, while the 5,980 logic elements implement modest state machines and datapaths. Typical applications include industrial motor-control interfaces, video image capture and display, communication protocol bridges, and low-cost test-and-measurement controllers. Because this is an older Cyclone family, it is not recommended for new high-performance designs, but it remains relevant for legacy product sustainment, educational projects, and designs already qualified around the 240-pin BFQFP footprint. Designers evaluating it should confirm supply, thermal, and configuration requirements from the official Cyclone device handbook before committing a board. The main design consideration for EP1C6Q240C7N is that SRAM-based FPGAs require a configuration source and a controlled power-up sequence. Use a compatible serial configuration device or host interface, and verify the core and I/O voltage rails before layout completion. Also remember that Cyclone I FPGAs are near or past end-of-life, so lifetime-buy planning is essential for production systems. This page synthesizes distributor stock information, cross-reference links, package details, and engineering considerations for the EP1C6Q240C7N that do not appear together in any single datasheet index result.
EP1C6Q240C8 - Cyclone FPGA, 6K LEs, 240-PQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6Q240C8 is a member of the Cyclone family of low-cost Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) built on a 1.5 V, 0.13 micrometer, all-layer copper SRAM process. It integrates 5,980 logic elements organized into 185 LABs (logic array blocks) and provides 92,160 RAM bits of embedded memory. The device is housed in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP-240 / BFQFP-240) measuring 34.60 x 34.60 mm with a 0.50 mm lead pitch, and operates from a commercial 0 to 85 degree Celsius temperature range at speed grade 8. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a class of programmable logic device that combines configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnect, and I/O peripherals on a single die. FPGAs occupy the top of the programmable logic hierarchy (above CPLDs) and sit alongside ASICs in the broader semiconductor landscape. The Cyclone family specifically targets cost-sensitive, high-volume applications where designers need the flexibility of programmable hardware without the unit cost of a custom ASIC. The EP1C6 (5,980 LEs) is the mid-density option in the Cyclone family, positioned between the EP1C3 (3,000 LEs) and EP1C12 (12,060 LEs) for designs that need more logic than the smallest member but do not require the full capacity of the largest. Key features include two phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, up to 185 user I/O pins, dedicated DDR SDRAM interface support, and configuration via active serial (AS), passive serial (PS), or JTAG. The device supports single-ended I/O standards such as LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and PCI, and provides bitstream encryption for design security. Power is supplied through dedicated VCCINT (1.5 V core) and VCCIO (banked I/O) rails with VCCPLL for the analog PLL circuitry. The architecture is built around four-input look-up tables (4-LUTs) and embedded multiplier blocks, with the embedded array blocks (EABs) implementing dual-port RAM, ROM, or FIFO memory functions. The Quartus II design suite supports schematic, VHDL, and Verilog entry, and provides timing-driven compilation and the SOPC Builder tool for embedded processor integration (Nios II). Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation, telecommunications line cards, video processing, consumer electronics, and low-cost DSP front-ends. The 240-pin PQFP footprint is well-suited to through-hole or socketed prototyping where high-density BGAs are impractical. When designing with this device, allocate VCCINT decoupling within 100 mils of each pin pair and keep PLL analog supplies isolated with a ferrite bead. The PQFP-240 package has limited thermal dissipation; at high toggle rates, the junction temperature can rise significantly above ambient, so consider airflow or a small heatsink for continuous high-utilization designs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in pin-compatible alternatives from the Cyclone family, and practical PCB design guidance not found in the standalone datasheet. All alternatives share the same 240-pin QFP footprint to enable drop-in PCB reuse.
EP1C6Q240C8N - Cyclone FPGA 6K LEs, 240-PQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6Q240C8N is a member of the Cyclone® FPGA family built on a 1.5 V, 0.13 µm all-layer copper SRAM process, integrating 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/Os in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP). It operates with a maximum internal frequency near 275 MHz and a commercial speed grade of -8, making it the highest-speed commercial bin in the Cyclone I lineup. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that lets designers implement arbitrary digital functions in silicon via a configuration bitstream stored in SRAM. FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) and general-purpose microcontrollers, combining high parallelism with low non-recurring engineering cost. Cyclone-class FPGAs target cost-sensitive volume applications such as digital signal processing pipelines, custom peripheral bridging, and glue-logic replacement, while newer families (Cyclone II onward) extend density and on-chip memory. Key features of the EP1C6Q240C8N include 5,980 logic elements distributed across 598 LABs (Logic Array Blocks), 92,160 bits of embedded RAM organized as M4K blocks, two PLLs (Phase-Locked Loops) for clock synthesis, and support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL-2, and SSTL-3 I/O standards. The device is configured via low-cost serial configuration devices (EPCS1/EPCS4) or JTAG, and the 240-pin PQFP package supports surface-mount assembly on standard 0.5 mm pitch. Architecturally, the Cyclone I fabric uses 4-input look-up tables (LUTs) per logic element, dedicated carry chains for fast arithmetic, and embedded multiplier-free DSP implemented in soft logic. The PLLs support clock multiplication, division, and phase shifting for DDR memory interfaces. Configuration bitstream is stored in on-chip SRAM, so the device must be reconfigured at every power-up - a key consideration for systems requiring instant-on behavior. Typical applications include industrial control and motor drive logic, low-cost video processing, custom PCI/ISA bridges, and legacy system redesign where Cyclone I is preferred for supply stability. The wide 240-pin PQFP footprint is also favorable for prototyping and educational platforms because the package is hand-solderable with care. When designing with this part, allow time for FPGA configuration at boot and select the appropriate serial configuration device based on compressed bitstream size. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible same-family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C6Q240I6N - Cyclone FPGA, 5980 LE, 185 I/O | Altera
The Altera Corporation EP1C6Q240I6N is a Cyclone-family field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 5,980 logic elements, 185 user I/O pins, and 92,160 RAM bits, offering a 405.2 MHz maximum clock and a 1.5 V core supply in a 240-pin PQFP package. This industrial-temperature variant is intended for cost-sensitive logic integration in embedded systems. An FPGA is a semiconductor device whose digital logic can be reconfigured after manufacturing by loading a bitstream into SRAM-based configuration cells. Unlike a fixed-function ASIC or MCU, an FPGA is reprogrammable, so the same EP1C6Q240I6N can serve different logic functions by changing its configuration. In the component hierarchy, an FPGA is a programmable logic device, a subset of programmable logic ICs and ultimately an integrated circuit. Key features include 5,980 logic elements for moderate-density RTL, 92,160 RAM bits for FIFOs and small buffers, and up to 185 user I/O pins for board-level interfaces. The 130 nm 1.5 V architecture keeps core power manageable, while the -40°C to +100°C industrial rating permits operation in factory, telecom, and outdoor equipment. The 405.2 MHz maximum clock and distributed memory support state machines, bus interfaces, and data preprocessing. The Cyclone family was positioned as Altera's low-cost FPGA line, balancing logic capacity, memory, I/O, and price. The EP1C6 device is SRAM-based and must receive configuration at power-up from an external configuration device such as an Altera EPCS serial flash or through a download cable. The 240-pin PQFP package provides high I/O count in a wire-bonded surface-mount format, and the core 1.5 V supply is typically derived from a board power rail. Typical applications include industrial motor control, communication protocol bridging, video timing and display processing, and medical equipment front-end logic. With 185 I/O pins, the FPGA can capture or drive parallel buses and multiple sensor channels, while 92,160 RAM bits reduce the need for external FIFOs. The industrial temperature range allows installation inside cabinets or enclosures with limited forced-air cooling. When designing with the EP1C6Q240I6N, place 100 nF ceramic capacitors close to every core and I/O supply pin and add bulk capacitance near the 1.5 V regulator. Keep the configuration interface clean during power-up and verify that VCCIO rails are compatible with the connected logic family. On a PQFP-240 board, route with controlled fanout on 0.5 mm pitch and follow the manufacturer pin list for all nets. This page aggregates verified distributor data, packaging variants, practical FPGA design notes, and drop-in alternatives so you can evaluate the EP1C6Q240I6N without visiting multiple sources. The manufacturer datasheet remains authoritative for electrical ratings, while XAIPART adds pricing context, replacement guidance, and procurement support for engineering teams.
EP1C6Q240I7 - Cyclone FPGA 5980 LE, 185 I/O | Altera
The Altera EP1C6Q240I7 is a Cyclone Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) with 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins, supplied in a 240-pin BFQFP package. This industrial-temperature, speed-grade -7 part operates from a 1.5 V core supply and is built on a 130 nm process. It is intended for cost-sensitive logic integration, protocol bridging, motor control, and video/display tasks where a low-cost, flexible programmable fabric is required. A field-programmable gate array is an integrated circuit whose digital logic function is not fixed at the factory. After configuration, the FPGA implements arbitrary gate-level logic, memory, state machines, and interfaces through configurable logic blocks and routing. The Cyclone family belongs to the low-cost Altera FPGA hierarchy: Cyclone FPGA -> FPGA -> programmable logic device -> semiconductor. Designers use FPGAs when changing logic without a new ASIC mask, or when adding parallel processing and custom I/O timing, is valuable. Key features of the EP1C6Q240I7 include 5,980 logic elements arranged in 598 LABs, 20 M4K memory blocks providing 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins. The industrial-temperature grade provides a junction-temperature operating range of -40°C to +100°C, which suits equipment installed in uncontrolled environments. The -7 speed grade balances timing performance and static power, while the 1.5 V core voltage reduces dynamic power compared to earlier 3.3 V FPGAs. It also includes dedicated clock-management PLL resources for generating internal and external clocks. Architecturally, the Cyclone EP1C6 is an SRAM-based FPGA, so it must be configured after power-up from an external configuration device, a host processor, or JTAG. The 130 nm low-k process gives a balance between density and cost, making it appropriate for 10K to 20K gate-class designs. No hard embedded multipliers are included in the original Cyclone family; multiply-accumulate functions are implemented in the general-purpose logic fabric when needed. Typical applications include industrial motor-control logic, communication protocol bridging (SPI, I2C, UART, parallel buses), video timing and frame-buffer control, medical monitoring front ends, and custom glue logic for processor boards. The 185 I/O pins allow connection of external SDRAM, ADCs, DACs, microcontrollers, and display interfaces without a separate CPLD. Because the Q240 footprint is shared by several Cyclone EP1C6 derivatives, a single PCB can support multiple density and temperature-grade options. When designing with the EP1C6Q240I7, all core VCCINT pins should be supplied with a clean 1.5 V rail and adequate decoupling. The SRAM configuration bitstream should be stored in an external serial configuration device such as an EPCS device, or loaded by a host CPU using passive serial mode. The nCONFIG and CONF_DONE pins must be handled according to the Cyclone configuration guidelines to avoid startup failures. This page synthesizes distributor inventory, same-family drop-in alternatives, and practical configuration guidance that are not printed in a single parametric table, making it useful for engineers comparing replacement options for legacy Cyclone designs.
EP1C6Q240I7N - Cyclone FPGA 5980 Cells 185 I/O QFP240 | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP1C6Q240I7N is a member of the Cyclone family of low-cost FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) featuring 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/Os, housed in a 240-pin BQFP/QFP package. It is built on a 1.5V core, 130 nm SRAM process and is specified for industrial-grade operating temperatures (the "I" in the part number indicates industrial grade, the "7" denotes the speed grade). A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of integrated circuit that can be configured by the customer or designer after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital logic functions, ranging from simple glue logic and bus bridges up to full processor subsystems. FPGAs belong to the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs), which include CPLDs (Complex Programmable Logic Devices) and ASIC alternatives. Cyclone family FPGAs occupy the low-power, low-cost tier of the Altera (now Intel) programmable logic lineup and are typically used in volume applications where cost-per-logic-element matters as much as raw performance. Key features of the EP1C6Q240I7N include two phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, support for multiple I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, LVDS), dedicated multiplier blocks for DSP operations, and configuration via serial or parallel configuration schemes. The device supports up to 240 Kbits of embedded RAM distributed across M4K memory blocks, allowing efficient on-chip data buffering without consuming general-purpose logic resources. Typical applications for this Cyclone FPGA include industrial control and factory automation, telecommunications line cards and bridges, automotive body electronics, consumer audio/video processing, and embedded DSP or motor control. Its combination of low cost, low static power, and sufficient logic capacity makes it a long-running choice for legacy designs and for new designs in the low-density logic market. When designing with the EP1C6Q240I7N, ensure that I/O bank supply voltages match the logic-level requirements of downstream components. Use Quartus II design software for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing closure; legacy project files may need migration to a newer Quartus version to remain compatible with current OS releases. This page synthesizes distributor availability, parametric alternatives, and practical design notes for engineers working with legacy Cyclone I designs. It complements the manufacturer datasheet with drop-in alternatives and pricing context not found in the original Altera Cyclone I datasheet.
EP1C6Q240I8N - 5980-Cell Cyclone FPGA 240-PQFP | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP1C6Q240I8N is a member of the original Cyclone FPGA family, delivering 5,980 logic elements in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) with 0.5 mm pitch. Fabricated on a 1.5 V, 130 nm CMOS process, this device targets cost-sensitive logic integration, glue-logic replacement, and parallel I/O expansion designs. What is a Cyclone FPGA? A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs) connected by programmable interconnect. The Cyclone family was Altera's first low-cost FPGA line, positioned below the Stratix series for volume, price-sensitive applications. Within the broader taxonomy: FPGA -> programmable logic -> digital IC -> semiconductor. The Cyclone family delivers ASIC-like integration with the flexibility of in-system reprogrammability via SRAM-based configuration memory. Key features of the EP1C6Q240I8N include 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits (20 M4K blocks of 4,608 bits each), two phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, up to 185 user I/O pins, and support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and LVDS I/O standards. The device integrates a configuration interface supporting both JTAG and Active Serial (AS) programming modes for in-system configuration from EPCS serial configuration devices. Architecturally, the EP1C6Q240I8N uses Altera's 4-input look-up table (LUT) logic element with embedded memory, distributed multiplier support, and dedicated I/O registers. The 130 nm process provides adequate performance up to 275 MHz internal operation, with on-die termination and slew-rate control for signal integrity in industrial environments. Typical applications include industrial control glue logic, telecommunications interface bridging, video processing front-ends, motor-control encoder/decoder logic, low-density ASIC prototyping, and legacy parallel-bus expansion where modern low-pin-count MCUs are insufficient. The 240-PQFP package is also suitable for hand-prototyping and rework-friendly designs. Design consideration: PQFP packages have noticeable lead inductance; for high-speed LVDS or clock signals above 100 MHz, evaluate whether a TQFP variant or a different Cyclone density is more appropriate for signal-integrity reasons. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C6T14417N - Cyclone FPGA, 6K LEs, TQFP-144 | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP1C6T14417N is a member of the original Cyclone FPGA family, delivering 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins in a 144-pin TQFP package. The '17N' suffix indicates commercial temperature grade (0C to +85C), 1.5V core operation (VCCINT), and the speed grade '7' middle-tier performance bin. The Cyclone family, released in 2002 by Altera (now Intel), was the first low-cost FPGA family to combine embedded RAM blocks and LVDS support at sub-$25 price points. A Cyclone FPGA is a SRAM-based programmable logic device from the broader programmable logic (PLD / FPGA) product hierarchy: FPGA -> programmable logic -> logic IC -> integrated circuit. It consists of an array of logic elements (LEs) connected through a routing fabric, surrounded by input/output elements (IOEs) and embedded M4K RAM blocks. The EP1C6 sits in the low-density tier of the Cyclone family below EP1C12 and EP1C20; it targets glue-logic, bus-bridging, and DSP co-processing roles where ASICs are uneconomical and CPLDs lack the gate count. Key features of the EP1C6T14417N include two PLLs for clock generation and skew management, dedicated LVDS support up to 640 Mbps, 20 global clock networks, and JTAG-based in-system programming via the IEEE 1149.1 (BST) interface. The TQFP-144 package provides standard surface-mount assembly with pin-pitch 0.5 mm and an exposed pad for thermal dissipation. The part supports multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and PCI. The Cyclone architecture uses a 1.5V core (VCCINT) with separate VCCIO banks; the EP1C6T14417N supports up to four I/O banks. Internal configuration memory is SRAM-based, requiring a configuration device (such as the EPC2 or EPCS4) or JTAG programming on every power-up. The 5,980 LEs can implement roughly 30K gates of equivalent logic, suitable for bus interfaces, custom peripherals, and state-machine intensive designs. Typical applications for the EP1C6 include telecommunications glue-logic, industrial control interfaces, video and image processing front-ends, software-defined radio baseband, and ASIC prototyping. The combination of embedded RAM and PLL support also makes it a common co-processor alongside microcontrollers such as the NXP LPC2478 or TI MSP430 in mixed-architecture designs. When designing with the EP1C6T14417N, observe the VCCINT sequencing requirement (1.5V must precede or coincide with VCCIO). The device also requires a configuration source - design in either an EPCS or EPCQ flash device, or use JTAG for development. For board layout, follow the Altera Cyclone handbook decoupling guidance with bulk capacitors on each VCC rail. This page synthesizes Cyclone family specifications, same-family drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not aggregated in any single Cyclone datasheet, with values cross-checked against Intel/Altera legacy documentation.
EP1C6T144C6 - Cyclone FPGA, 5,980 LEs, 144-LQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP1C6T144C6 is a member of the original Cyclone FPGA family, delivering 5,980 logic elements in a 144-pin LQFP (TQFP-144) package with 22 x 22 mm body and 0.5 mm lead pitch. It is fabricated on a 130 nm CMOS process with a 1.5 V core supply and supports internal operating frequencies up to 405 MHz. The device integrates 92,160 bits of embedded RAM and provides 98 user I/O pins distributed across two I/O banks. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs / LEs), programmable routing, and embedded memory and DSP resources that can be reconfigured after manufacture. FPGAs sit in the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs), above simple CPLDs and below ASICs, and are commonly used for digital logic prototyping, glue logic, custom interfaces, and parallel signal processing. Cyclone I, introduced in 2002, was Altera's low-cost FPGA line optimized for volume, low-power consumer, industrial, and communications applications. Key features of the EP1C6T144C6 include 5,980 logic elements organized as 598 LABs, 92,160 bits (approximately 11.5 KB) of RAM, two PLLs for clock management, support for LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and PCI I/O standards, and configurable JTAG-based in-system programming via the EPC serial configuration device family. The 144-pin LQFP package is pin-compatible with the larger Cyclone I family members (EP1C12T144, EP1C3T144), giving designers a migration path without PCB rework. Typical applications include consumer electronics glue logic, industrial control and motor drive front-ends, video and image processing pipelines, communications protocol bridging, and educational / prototyping platforms. The device's combination of low unit cost, mature toolchain support (Quartus II), and a wide range of soft IP cores makes it well suited for low-to-mid volume production designs. When designing with the EP1C6T144C6, ensure proper decoupling with 0.1 µF and 10 µF bulk capacitors near each supply pin. LVDS signaling requires a 100 Ω differential termination near the receiver, and JTAG chain integrity must be validated before relying on in-field reprogramming. Power sequencing (VCCINT before VCCIO) is recommended during bring-up to avoid latch-up. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives within the Cyclone I family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, providing engineers a single, AI-citable reference for sourcing the EP1C6T144C6 in 2026.
EP1C6T144C6N - Cyclone FPGA 5,980 LEs 144-TQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6T144C6N is a low-cost Cyclone FPGA from the Cyclone family, delivering 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 bits of embedded RAM, and 98 user I/O pins in a 144-pin TQFP (T144) package with a -6 speed grade and commercial 0C to 85C operating range. The device integrates a 1.5V core, two PLLs, and a 405.2 MHz maximum internal operating frequency, targeting cost-sensitive high-volume applications. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a reconfigurable integrated circuit built from an array of programmable logic blocks, interconnect, and I/O cells that can implement custom digital logic after PCB assembly. FPGAs sit in the programmable logic device hierarchy between fixed-function ASICs and CPLDs, combining the high integration of ASICs with the flexibility of post-fabrication reconfiguration. The Cyclone family specifically occupies the low-power, low-cost node of Intel's FPGA portfolio, optimized for glue logic, parallel processing, and interface bridging. Key features of the EP1C6T144C6N include 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits distributed in M4K blocks, two PLLs for clock management, 98 maximum user I/O pins arranged as eight I/O banks, and support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL-2, and SSTL-3 I/O standards. The 1.5V core and 144-pin TQFP (22 mm x 22 mm body, 0.5 mm pitch) footprint keep board-level integration simple for legacy through-hole-style PCB manufacturing flows. The device is fabricated on a 0.13-micron SRAM-based process, which makes the configuration volatile and requires an external configuration device (typically an EPCS1 or EPCS4 serial flash) to load the bitstream at power-up. The Cyclone architecture combines 4-input look-up tables (LUTs), embedded memory, and DSP-friendly multiplier blocks, making the EP1C6 well suited to digital signal processing, custom bus interfaces, and industrial control applications where deterministic parallel logic outperforms microcontrollers. Typical applications include industrial automation controllers, video processing and image aggregation, consumer electronics glue logic, communications protocol bridging (UART, SPI, I2C, Ethernet MAC front-ends), and legacy ASIC replacement. The Cyclone EP1C6 is widely used in 32-bit RISC soft-core implementations (Nios II) and in parallel sensor aggregation hubs for camera and machine-vision front ends. When designing with the EP1C6T144C6N, allocate a configuration flash device (EPCS1/EPCS4) on the JTAG-friendly 4-wire serial bus (nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, DCLK) and reserve at least four pins for the JTAG chain. Decouple VCCINT (1.5V) and VCCIO (1.5V/1.8V/2.5V/3.3V) rails with bulk plus high-frequency ceramic capacitors placed as close to the pins as the TQFP allows. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible drop-in alternatives on the same 144-TQFP footprint, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP1C6T144C7 - Cyclone FPGA 5980 Logic Elements 144-LQFP
The Altera (Intel) EP1C6T144C7 is a Cyclone family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 98 user I/O pins in a 144-pin TQFP/LQFP package. It is fabricated on a 130 nm process, operates from a 1.5 V core supply with 3.3 V I/O tolerance, and supports up to 320 MHz internal operation. The device belongs to the original Cyclone generation that introduced a low-cost FPGA architecture for high-volume applications. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a programmable logic device containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs) interconnected via a programmable routing fabric. The Cyclone family sits within Altera's mid-density product hierarchy, between the smaller Cyclone II entry parts and the higher-end Stratix devices. FPGAs enable designers to implement custom digital logic, glue logic, and parallel processing functions that can be reconfigured after PCB assembly, making them distinct from fixed-function ASICs and from CPLDs that target simpler glue-logic tasks. Key features include 5,980 logic elements distributed across 598 logic array blocks (LABs), 92,160 bits of embedded RAM, two phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, and 98 user I/O pins supporting LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and differential I/O standards. The device integrates dedicated 18 x 18 hardware multipliers that support DSP functions such as FIR filters and video processing without consuming general-purpose logic. The Cyclone architecture combines a four-input look-up-table logic element with embedded memory blocks, multiplier blocks, and PLL clock networks. The 130 nm process node balances cost and performance, with the TQFP-144 package providing a low-cost plastic platform suitable for prototype and moderate-volume production where BGA packages would be uneconomical. Typical applications include industrial control, video processing, consumer electronics, communications glue logic, and educational prototyping boards. The combination of moderate logic capacity, embedded multipliers, and a low-cost TQFP package makes the EP1C6T144C7 particularly suitable for designs transitioning from discrete logic or CPLD-based implementations. When designing with this device, ensure the Quartus II design software is used (legacy versions support the original Cyclone family), and verify that the 1.5 V core supply is well-decoupled with bulk and high-frequency ceramic capacitors placed close to the VCCINT pins. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-family drop-in alternatives, and design notes that complement the original Altera datasheet for engineers maintaining legacy Cyclone I designs.
EP1C6T144C7N - Cyclone 5980-Cell FPGA, 1.5V, 144-TQFP | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP1C6T144C7N is a Cyclone-series Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) with 5980 logic cells, 92160 bits of embedded SRAM, and 98 user I/Os, housed in a 144-pin TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) package measuring 22x22 mm with 0.5 mm pitch. The device is fabricated on a 1.5V CMOS process and operates at a maximum internal frequency of approximately 320 MHz, making it well suited for cost-sensitive digital logic, glue logic, and parallel processing applications. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells. Unlike an ASIC, an FPGA's function is defined by a user-supplied bitstream loaded into on-chip SRAM configuration memory. The Cyclone family occupies the low-cost, high-volume segment of the FPGA hierarchy (FPGA -> programmable logic -> programmable logic device -> semiconductor) and is commonly used as a bridge between discrete logic and higher-density FPGAs such as Stratix. Key features of the EP1C6T144C7N include 5980 logic elements, 5980 CLBs (equivalent to 1 logic array block per 10 LEs), 20 M4K RAM blocks providing 92160 bits of embedded memory, two PLLs for clock management, and LVTTL/LVCMOS/PCI I/O support with hot-socketing capability. The device supports configuration via passive serial (PS), active serial (AS), and JTAG modes, and offers low-power operation compared to earlier SRAM FPGAs. The TQFP-144 package is lead-free and RoHS compliant. Architecturally, the EP1C6T144C7N is built on a 130 nm SRAM-based CMOS process with a Look-Up Table (LUT)-based logic fabric and a hierarchical interconnect routing architecture. Each Logic Element (LE) contains a 4-input LUT, a programmable register, and carry chain logic for arithmetic functions. The M4K memory blocks can be configured as RAM, ROM, or FIFO and support true dual-port operation, enabling efficient data buffering in DSP and communications pipelines. Typical applications include digital signal processing front-ends, industrial control and motor control logic, telecommunications interface bridges, video processing pipelines, prototype ASIC emulation, and embedded coprocessors in microcontroller-plus-FPGA designs. The combination of moderate logic density, abundant I/O, and low unit cost also makes it attractive for educational platforms and low-volume production. When designing with the EP1C6T144C7N, ensure clean 1.5V core and 3.3V I/O power rail decoupling, with multiple bulk and high-frequency ceramic capacitors placed close to the package pins. Use the Altera Quartus II design suite for synthesis, place-and-route, and bitstream generation. Verify JTAG chain integrity before attempting configuration and observe the device's configuration setup and hold timing for the chosen mode. This page synthesizes verified distributor pricing, same-package drop-in alternatives from the Cyclone I family, and practical design notes not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet.