FPGA & CPLD
Products (6358)
EP1K50TC144-2 - 50K Gate ACEX-1K FPGA, 144-TQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1K50TC144-2 is a member of the ACEX-1K family of 2.5 V field-programmable gate arrays with 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements, and 40,960 system gates, housed in a 144-pin TQFP (TC144) package. The suffix "-2" denotes a commercial speed grade suitable for cost-sensitive, non-timing-critical designs; the "TC" envelope code indicates a thin quad flat pack (TQFP) surface-mount body. Per the verified distributor data, the device exposes 102 user I/O pins organized as 360 logic array blocks (LABs) with embedded array blocks (EABs) for on-chip memory and dedicated logic functions. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a class of programmable logic device (PLD) that allows engineers to implement arbitrary digital logic, glue logic, state machines, bus interfaces, and soft processor cores after PCB fabrication. Within the broader semiconductor hierarchy, FPGAs sit above ASICs and microcontrollers in design flexibility but below them in per-unit cost and static power. The ACEX-1K family belongs to Altera's low-cost SRAM-based FPGA lineage, predating the Cyclone series and offering embedded dual-port RAM blocks, a 2.5 V core supply, and a 0.22 µm CMOS process that targets glue logic, communication bridges, and low-volume ASIC prototyping. Key features of the EP1K50TC144-2 include 49,152 bits of embedded RAM distributed across EABs, multi-voltage I/O support via selectable bank standards, in-system programmability through the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface and Altera EPC configuration devices, and a maximum internal toggle frequency around 200 MHz. The 144-pin TQFP body provides manageable board-level assembly using conventional SMT lines without requiring fine-pitch BGA reballing, easing low-to-medium volume production and bench prototyping. The architecture combines a continuous interconnect network with LAB-based logic, EAB-based memory, and dedicated I/O element (IOE) cells with slew-rate and drive-strength control. Each LAB contains ten logic elements (LEs), and each LE embeds a 4-input LUT plus a programmable register, enabling efficient mapping of wide combinational paths and pipelined datapaths. The 2.5 V core and I/O bank supplies allow interfacing with 3.3 V peripherals through level-shifting I/O standards. Typical applications include industrial control and glue logic replacement, communication protocol bridges (UART, SPI, I2C), low-volume ASIC prototyping, educational and lab development boards, parallel-to-serial converters, and simple peripheral controllers. Designers also target the EP1K50TC144-2 for legacy system upgrades where existing ACEX-1K designs are being re-spun or migrated to a long-lifecycle pin-compatible footprint. When designing with this part, note that the ACEX-1K family is mature, and Intel has transitioned new designs to the Cyclone and MAX families. Designers should verify long-term availability through franchised distributors and confirm that legacy Quartus II (or MAX+PLUS II) toolchains support the chosen speed grade. JTAG programming with EPC configuration devices is the standard in-system configuration path. This page synthesizes franchised distributor pricing (DigiKey, Mouser, Octopart), drop-in same-package alternatives from the EP1K50 family, and practical design notes not consolidated in the original ACEX-1K datasheet family document.
EP1K50TC144-2N - 50K Gate ACEX-1K FPGA, 144-LQFP | Altera
The Altera (now Intel) EP1K50TC144-2N is a member of the ACEX-1K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering 50,000 typical gates and 2,880 logic elements in a 144-pin LQFP (TQFP-144) commercial-grade package. It integrates 102 user I/Os, 40,960 bits of embedded RAM (EAB blocks), 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and operates at up to 200 MHz internal frequency with 0.22 µm CMOS process technology on a 2.5 V core supply. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that engineers can configure after manufacture to implement custom digital logic functions. The ACEX-1K family sits in the broader taxonomy: FPGA → programmable logic device (PLD) → logic IC → integrated circuit (IC). ACEX-1K was Altera's low-cost, 2.5 V alternative positioned between CPLDs and higher-density SRAM-based FPGAs such as APEX 20K and Stratix. Key features of the EP1K50TC144-2N include 2,880 logic elements, 50,000 typical gates (up to 100,000 maximum), 12 embedded array blocks (EABs) of 4,096 bits each for dual-port RAM, ROM, or FIFO implementation, fast propagation delay in the nanosecond class, JTAG-compliant boundary-scan test support, and a 0.4 ns internal speed grade (the "-2" suffix). The device supports in-system programming via the serial configuration scheme and supports multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, and PCI. The device implements an enhanced embedded array structure where each EAB block provides up to 4,096 bits of dual-port RAM, enabling efficient memory and specialized logic functions such as multipliers, finite impulse response (FIR) filters, and microcontrollers in a single chip. This architecture allows SOPC (System-on-a-Programmable-Chip) integration with megafunctions, reducing overall system cost and board area for designs that previously required separate logic and memory chips. Typical applications for the EP1K50TC144-2N include glue logic replacement, telecommunications interface bridging, industrial control and factory automation subsystems, prototype ASIC emulation, and digital signal processing (DSP) front-end pre-processing. It is also used in legacy telecom line cards, military/aerospace control electronics, and educational FPGA platforms where its 144-LQFP through-hole-friendly footprint simplifies laboratory rework and programming. When designing with this device, designers must ensure proper decoupling on all VCCINT (2.5 V core) and VCCIO (3.3 V/2.5 V/1.8 V I/O) rails, use a configuration device or JTAG programmer for bitstream loading, and respect the maximum supported clock frequency at the chosen speed grade. The part is now in the Altera/Intel legacy product line, so lifecycle planning should consider migration to Cyclone or Cyclone II equivalents for new designs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative MPNs, and practical design notes that are not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet PDF, providing engineers with a single source for procurement and second-source decisions.
EP1K50TC144-3 - ACEX-1K 50K FPGA 144-TQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1K50TC144-3 is a 50,000-gate ACEX-1K family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) housed in a 144-pin TQFP (TQFP-144) surface-mount package. It integrates 2,880 logic cells, 40,960 system gates, 49,152 bits of embedded RAM, 360 LABs/CLBs, and 102 user I/Os, with a maximum operating frequency of 166.67 MHz at 2.5 V core supply. The device is fabricated on a 0.18 μm CMOS process with a 2.5 V core, making it a low-cost, system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) platform for high-volume designs. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that combines configurable logic blocks (LABs/CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells on a single die. FPGAs sit within the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLD) -> logic integrated circuits (logic IC) -> integrated circuits (IC) -> semiconductors. They enable parallel hardware execution, hardware-accelerated DSP, and rapid design iteration compared with fixed ASICs or microcontrollers. The ACEX-1K family specifically targets cost-sensitive, high-volume applications that previously required gate-array ASICs. Key features of the EP1K50TC144-3 include a -3 speed grade, 360 LABs, 2,880 logic elements, 49,152 bits of embedded dual-port RAM, 102 maximum user I/Os, JTAG-based in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan, MultiVolt I/O supporting 2.5 V/3.3 V/5.0 V mixed-voltage interfacing, and a low-power 2.5 V core. The TQFP-144 package has a low-profile gull-wing lead format compatible with conventional SMT assembly lines. Architecturally, the EP1K50TC144-3 uses a Look-Up Table (LUT)-based logic fabric backed by an Embedded Array Block (EAB) structure. Each EAB provides up to 4,096 bits of dual-port RAM, ROM, or specialized megafunctions such as multipliers, FIFOs, and CAM blocks. This combination delivers deterministic timing, low skew, and efficient memory utilization without external SRAM. Typical applications include glue logic and bus interfacing in industrial controllers, low-cost DSP front-ends, communications protocol bridges (UART, SPI, I2C, parallel interfaces), legacy ASIC replacement designs, education platforms, prototyping for ASIC emulation, and small-volume production runs where mask charges are not amortizable. The wide MultiVolt I/O range makes the EP1K50TC144-3 particularly attractive when bridging 5 V MCUs to 3.3 V peripherals. When designing with this device, note that the -3 speed grade requires careful timing closure at the upper operating frequency limit of 166.67 MHz. Use Altera's legacy MAX+PLUS II or Quartus II design software for synthesis, fitting, place-and-route, and programming file generation. The 144-TQFP package has limited thermal dissipation; consult the device handbook for thermal design guidelines if operating at industrial temperature extremes. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative MPNs from the same ACEX-1K family, and practical design notes that go beyond the data sheet alone. Lifecycle status, parametric proximity, and pinout details are presented in a form optimized for engineer decision-making.
EP1K50TC144-3N - ACEX-1K 50K Gates FPGA, 144-LQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP1K50TC144-3N is a 50,000-gate ACEX-1K family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) with 2,880 logic elements and 40,960 system gates, housed in a 144-pin LQFP (TQFP-144) surface-mount package. It integrates 102 user I/Os, 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and 12 Embedded Array Blocks (EABs) providing 40 kbit of dual-port SRAM, fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process and powered by a 2.5 V core supply. The device supports in-system programmability via 4-wire JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) and Altera serial configuration schemes. An FPGA is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs/LABs) interconnected by a programmable routing matrix. FPGAs are positioned in the programmable logic hierarchy above CPLDs and below ASICs in terms of integration density, offering hardware-level parallelism for digital signal processing, glue logic, bus bridging, and protocol implementation. The ACEX-1K family specifically introduced embedded memory (EABs) to PLDs, enabling true system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) implementations for cost-sensitive designs. Key features include 166.67 MHz maximum internal operating frequency, 5.0 ns pin-to-pin logic delay, JTAG boundary-scan test support, multiVolt I/O supporting 2.5 V/3.3 V/5.0 V interfacing, and 102 user I/O pins arranged in four I/O banks. The architecture combines a fine-grained logic fabric with coarse-grained EAB memory blocks, allowing efficient implementation of megafunctions such as FIFOs, dual-port RAM, and DSP multipliers without external memory. The 0.22 µm process technology delivers a balance of low static power and high performance. The four I/O banks support independent voltage reference (VREF) inputs, allowing mixed-voltage interfacing on a single die. Programmable interconnect delays and register-rich LABs optimize timing closure for state-machine and pipeline designs. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation, telecommunications line cards, glue logic replacement in legacy 5 V systems, low-volume ASIC substitution, and embedded control boards. The 144-LQFP plastic package simplifies prototyping and rework compared to BGA alternatives. Designers should note that EP1K50TC144-3N is now classified Obsolete, so production runs require last-time-buy planning, firmware bitstream compatibility must be verified against Quartus II version 13.0 or earlier, and migration to Cyclone II / Cyclone III families is recommended for new designs. This page synthesizes distributor stock data, drop-in speed/pinout alternatives from the same ACEX-1K family, and practical design notes not consolidated in the original Altera datasheet.
EP1K50TI144-1X - 50K Gate ACEX 1K FPGA, 144-LQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP1K50TI144-1X is a member of the ACEX 1K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays, integrating 50,000 equivalent gates and 2,880 logic elements across 360 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) in a 144-pin TQFP/LQFP package with 0.5 mm pitch. The device uses a 2.5 V CMOS core (2.375 V to 2.625 V supply range) and supports a maximum clock frequency of approximately 90 MHz, with 102 general-purpose user I/O pins and 6 dedicated input pins for clock and global control signals. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that contains an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory blocks (EABs / ESBs in ACEX 1K), and programmable routing. FPGAs belong to the semiconductor hierarchy: programmable logic IC -> PLD -> digital IC -> integrated circuit. Unlike fixed-function ASICs, FPGAs are configured by the user after manufacture using an HDL bitstream and a vendor toolchain (Quartus for ACEX 1K), making them ideal for prototyping, low-volume production, and glue-logic consolidation. Key features of the EP1K50TI144-1X include on-chip SRAM-based configuration (volatile, requires external configuration device on power-up), embedded array blocks (EABs) for efficient memory and multiplier implementation, multi-volt I/O support for interfacing to 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and 5 V systems, and an industrial operating temperature range (-40 C to +85 C) suitable for factory and outdoor equipment. The ACEX 1K architecture combines look-up-table based logic fabric with EAB memory, giving it a hybrid advantage over pure LUT-based contemporaries. In the broader ACEX 1K portfolio the EP1K50 sits between the EP1K10 (10K gates) and EP1K100 (100K gates), making it a sweet spot for medium-complexity glue logic, bridge designs, and pre-ASIC prototyping. The "-1" speed grade is the slowest of three available grades and offers the lowest cost; the "-2" and "-3" grades provide higher Fmax but consume more power. The "X" suffix indicates industrial temperature grade and tape-and-reel packaging per the Altera ordering code convention. Typical applications include industrial control glue logic, communication protocol bridges (UART/SPI/I2C consolidation), legacy peripheral replacement, test and measurement front-ends, and low-volume embedded control where a microcontroller's fixed peripherals are insufficient. Designers transitioning away from discrete 74-series TTL logic or older CPLDs use this part to consolidate 5 to 20 chips onto a single programmable device. When designing with the EP1K50TI144-1X, plan for an external EPC configuration ROM (e.g., EPC2 or EPC4) on the board because the ACEX 1K configuration is volatile. Use the Quartus II design tool (legacy version 9.0 or later) for HDL entry, synthesis, and place-and-route; the bitstream must be reformatted if migrating to a different package. This page synthesizes distributor pricing snapshots, drop-in package-compatible ACEX 1K family variants, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP1K50TI144-2 - 50K-Gate ACEX-1K FPGA, 102 I/O, 144-LQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1K50TI144-2 is a member of the ACEX-1K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering 50,000 typical gates and 2,880 logic elements (LEs) in a 144-pin LQFP package. Operating from a 2.5 V core supply (2.375 V to 2.625 V range), this device provides 102 user I/O pins and is rated for industrial temperature operation (-40 °C to +85 °C). The "-2" speed grade positions this variant in the mid-performance tier of the ACEX-1K lineup, balancing timing margin against unit cost. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and I/O cells that can be re-programmed to implement arbitrary digital logic. ACEX-1K sits within the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) -> complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs) / FPGAs -> SRAM-based LUT FPGAs -> low-cost FPGAs -> embedded array FPGAs. The EP1K50TI144-2 specifically uses a Look-Up Table (LUT)-based architecture with embedded array blocks (EABs) that support dual-port RAM, ROM, FIFO, and specialized megafunctions, enabling system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration. Key features of the EP1K50TI144-2 include 40,960 RAM bits organized as embedded array blocks, 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and built-in support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and HSTL I/O standards. The device also integrates a JTAG boundary-scan test interface compliant with IEEE 1149.1, an in-system programmability (ISP) port, and a dedicated configuration circuitry that accepts bitstreams from EPC configuration PROMs or via passive serial/parallel controllers. Typical applications for the EP1K50TI144-2 include glue-logic replacement, industrial control interfaces, low-density telecommunications glue logic, and bridge/protocol conversion such as UART-to-PCI or I2C-to-parallel. The 144-LQFP package is hand-solder-friendly and compatible with low-cost PCB fabrication, making it well-suited for prototype runs and legacy system maintenance. Designers migrating to this part should note that ACEX-1K devices in the same 144-pin TQFP/LQFP package are pin-compatible across the family, allowing migration between EP1K10, EP1K30, and EP1K50 density points on the same PCB layout. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, ACEX-1K family pin-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes for the EP1K50TI144-2 that are not collated in the legacy ACEX 1K Device Family datasheet.
EP1K50TI144-2F - 50K-Gate ACEX-1K FPGA, 144-TQFP, Industrial | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1K50TI144-2F is a member of the ACEX-1K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays, delivering 50,000 equivalent gates, 2,880 logic elements, and 40,960 bits of embedded array RAM in a 144-pin Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP) package. It is built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process, supports a maximum clock frequency of 200 MHz (per family datasheet) and operates from a 2.5 V core supply (2.375 V to 2.625 V). The "-2" speed grade and industrial temperature suffix (no "N") indicate a fast speed bin and an industrial operating range, making this part well suited to industrial and commercial embedded systems. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that the designer can program after manufacture to implement arbitrary digital functions. FPGAs sit between fixed-function Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) and software-driven microcontrollers, offering parallel hardware acceleration, deterministic timing, and re-programmability. The ACEX-1K family belongs to the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) and uses a look-up-table (LUT)-based architecture with embedded array blocks (EABs) that can be configured as RAM, ROM, or multiplier blocks. The EP1K50TI144-2F features 102 maximum user I/O pins, supports in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface, and integrates dedicated clock management and routing resources. Its 2,880 logic elements deliver sufficient density for moderate-complexity glue logic, bus interfaces, state-machine control, and signal-processing pipelines, while the 40,960 bits of embedded RAM support small FIFOs, lookup tables, and data buffers without consuming general logic. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation, telecommunications line cards and bridging, low-volume prototyping of ASIC replacements, automotive telematics and body controllers, and embedded test and measurement equipment. The 144-pin TQFP footprint is a mature, easy-to-assemble surface-mount package that supports both hand-soldering and standard reflow processes. When designing with this device, ensure that the Quartus II or MAX+PLUS II development toolchain is configured for the ACEX-1K family. Use the JTAG pins (TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO) exclusively for programming and boundary-scan testing, and add proper decoupling (0.1 µF per VCCINT pin, bulk 10 µF) close to the supply pins to suppress switching noise during configuration and high-utilization operation. Note that the ACEX-1K family is mature and approaching end-of-life, so plan obsolescence mitigation by evaluating current-generation Cyclone or MAX II equivalents for new designs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in compatible ACEX-1K variants, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP1K50TI144-2N - ACEX-1K 50K Gates FPGA, 102 I/O, 144-TQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP1K50TI144-2N is a member of the ACEX-1K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering 50,000 typical gates (40,960 logic elements) and 2,880 cells of embedded array in a 144-pin Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP) package. It provides 102 user I/O pins, 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and is fabricated on a 0.22 µm process technology targeting a maximum internal operating frequency around 166.67 MHz. The "-2N" suffix denotes the device speed grade (faster) and the "N" indicates an industrial operating temperature range. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a class of programmable logic device (PLD) that combines the architectural flexibility of gate arrays with the design-turnaround benefits of user-programmability. In the system hierarchy, FPGAs sit between discrete logic (small-scale glue logic) and fixed-function Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), offering a balance of density, performance, and reconfigurability. ACEX-1K was Altera's second-generation SRAM-based FPGA family and is a hypernym of CPLDs within the broader programmable logic taxonomy. Key features of the EP1K50TI144-2N include 12 embedded system blocks (ESBs) providing 6 Kbits of dedicated RAM per block, support for multiple I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and others), in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG, and built-in clock management. The device is configured via a serial configuration EPROM (EPC) or the IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan interface, supporting both SRAM-based and JTAG programming flows. Typical applications include glue logic replacement, interface bridging, custom state-machine implementation, low-to-medium density data-path processing, and prototyping platforms that can later be ported to higher-density Cyclone or newer Altera/Intel FPGA families. The 144-TQFP package supports traditional surface-mount assembly with a generous 0.5 mm pitch suitable for rework. When designing with this part, note that ACEX-1K is an older, mature family; verify that current Altera/Intel Quartus software supports the device and confirm long-term availability before committing to new designs. The 144-TQFP package is also convenient for hand-soldered prototypes.
EP1K50TI144-2Q - 50K-Gate ACEX-1K FPGA 144-TQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1K50TI144-2Q is a member of the ACEX-1K family of Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) devices that delivers up to 50,000 typical gates of logic in a 144-pin TQFP package. Per the Verified Web Data (DigiKey listing 703782), this device integrates 2,880 logic elements and 40,960 bits of embedded array memory (EAB), with 102 user I/O pins available for board-level interfacing. The "-2" speed grade and industrial operating-temperature suffix "I" (combined as -2Q per Altera ordering nomenclature) place this part in the extended-performance, industrial temperature window, supporting system clocks beyond 100 MHz on internal logic. An FPGA is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be electrically reconfigured after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital logic, ranging from simple glue logic to complete processor subsystems. The ACEX-1K family specifically uses a 2.5 V core (per the digchip datasheet synopsis), an Enhanced Embedded Array Block (EAB) architecture for on-chip SRAM, and dual-port RAM capability, bridging low-cost SRAM-based PLDs and high-density SRAM FPGAs. Within the broader taxonomy, an FPGA belongs to programmable logic devices -> logic ICs -> integrated circuits, alongside CPLDs and mask-programmed gate arrays. Key features for this part include 102 user I/O pins (per DigiKey), 2,880 logic cells, 40,960 bits of embedded memory, in-system programmability via SRAM configuration cells, and built-in support for JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) boundary-scan testing. The 144-pin TQFP package offers a thin (1.0 mm) profile compatible with standard surface-mount assembly and provides a per-pin ESD protection structure typical of Altera ACEX-1K devices. Industrial temperature operation (-40 °C to +100 °C for the "I" grade) makes this part suitable for factory, outdoor, and automotive cabin environments. From an architectural perspective, the ACEX-1K family combines Look-up Table (LUT)-based logic elements for combinatorial and registered logic with dedicated EAB blocks for efficient memory implementation. Each EAB can be configured as 4,096 bits of RAM (single- or dual-port) or as a wide logic function, allowing megafunctions such as FIFOs, dual-port RAMs, and CAMs to be mapped efficiently. Configuration bitstream is loaded from a serial or parallel PROM at power-up; the device retains its SRAM configuration as long as VCCINT remains within specification. Typical applications for the EP1K50TI144-2Q include industrial control and factory-automation controllers, telecom line-card glue logic and protocol bridges, low-volume prototyping for ASIC designs, embedded DSP front-ends, and PCI/memory interface bridging. The 50K-gate density is sufficient for multi-channel UART/SPI controllers, motor-control state machines, and small RISC soft-cores such as the Altera Nios or open-source RISC-V implementations. A key design consideration for ACEX-1K devices is power-supply sequencing: the 2.5 V VCCINT and VCCIO banks must ramp monotonically with VCCINT preceding VCCIO, otherwise in-rush currents through I/O structures can latch-up. The FPGA also requires a configuration source (EPCS or compatible serial flash) unless pre-loaded at the factory. Designers migrating from the ACEX-1K family should be aware that this is a mature device: it has been NRND or EOL at Intel for many years, so lifecycle planning and last-time-buy evaluation are recommended. This page synthesizes current distributor pricing, drop-in ACEX-1K variants from the same family, practical design notes for 2.5 V core supplies, and pinout guidance not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP1K50TI144-2X - 50K-Gate ACEX 1K FPGA | Intel | 144-TQFP
The Intel EP1K50TI144-2X is a 50,000-gate Field Programmable Gate Array from the ACEX 1K family, housed in a 144-pin TQFP (Industrial temperature grade) package. The device integrates 2,880 logic elements organized as 360 Configurable Logic Blocks (LABs/CLBs), 40,960 bits of embedded SRAM, and 102 maximum user I/O pins. The '2X' speed grade designation places it in Altera's mid-range performance tier for this family. ACEX 1K is Altera's low-cost, SRAM-based FPGA family that bridges the gap between CPLDs and high-density FPGAs. As a field programmable gate array, an ACEX 1K device stores its configuration in volatile SRAM cells that must be loaded from an external PROM or controller at every power-up. The architecture combines look-up table (LUT)-based logic with embedded memory blocks, providing designers with a balance of logic density and on-chip storage for glue logic, bus interfacing, and small state-machine implementations. Key features of the EP1K50TI144-2X include a maximum operating frequency up to 833 MHz on internal paths, true LVTTL/LVCMOS/PCI-compliant I/O with user-configurable slew rate and drive strength, on-chip impedance matching, and built-in JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) boundary-scan support for board-level testing. The embedded array blocks (EABs) provide dedicated RAM/ROM functionality with widths up to 16 bits. The EP1K50TI144-2X uses a 0.18 µm CMOS process and operates from a 2.5 V core supply (VCCINT) with separate VCCIO banks that support mixed-voltage I/O standards (3.3 V, 2.5 V, 1.8 V). Industrial temperature grade parts (suffix 'I') are guaranteed across -40 °C to +100 °C operation, making the part suitable for non-automotive industrial, telecom, and instrumentation applications. Designers configure the device using Altera's MAX+PLUS II or Quartus development software, both of which support schematic, VHDL, and Verilog entry with synthesis, fitting, and timing analysis. Typical applications include industrial control interfaces, glue logic for legacy system upgrades, custom peripheral controllers in telecom equipment, low-density data-path acceleration, and prototyping vehicles for newer Cyclone/MAX 10 designs. The 144-pin TQFP with 0.5 mm pitch remains a familiar through-hole-friendly footprint for engineers migrating away from larger BGA-only devices. When designing with this part, ensure the configuration source (EPC2, EPC4, or microcontroller) matches the FPGA's 2.5 V VCCINT requirement and that JTAG chain integrity is preserved. Designers planning long-term production should note that ACEX 1K is a mature legacy family; current production designs should target Cyclone IV, MAX 10, or MAX V devices instead. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, cross-reference alternatives, and practical design notes not collected in a single place by the manufacturer datasheet, and it maps each verified value to its source URL for transparency.
EP1K50TI144-3 - 50K-Gate ACEX 1K FPGA, 102 I/O, PQFP-144 | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1K50TI144-3 is a 50,000-gate Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the ACEX 1K family, housed in a 144-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP-144) package. The "TI" suffix indicates TQFP gull-wing industrial-temperature grade, and "-3" denotes the speed grade. The device integrates 2,880 logic elements (LEs), 40,960 RAM bits, and 102 user I/O pins, and operates from a 2.375 V to 2.625 V supply with a 2.5 V nominal core voltage. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that contains an array of programmable logic blocks connected via programmable interconnect, allowing designers to implement custom digital logic functions that can be reconfigured after manufacture. FPGAs occupy a unique position between fixed-function ASICs and software-programmable processors, offering hardware-timed performance, deterministic latency, and parallel execution for DSP, glue logic, and interface bridging tasks. The ACEX 1K family, introduced in 1999, was one of the first low-cost SRAM-based FPGAs and belongs to the broader taxonomy: FPGA -> Programmable Logic Device (PLD) -> Logic IC -> Integrated Circuit. Key features include 360 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) with 2,880 LEs, 72 embedded array blocks (EABs) providing 40,960 bits of dual-port RAM, and 6 dedicated input pins. The -3 speed grade offers approximately 12.5 ns propagation delay through the LUT + interconnect path. Built on a 0.22 µm CMOS SRAM process, the ACEX 1K supports in-system programming via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface and can be configured from a serial PROM, parallel byte-wide flash, or processor port. Industrial-grade parts (TI suffix) operate from -40 °C to +85 °C. Typical applications include glue logic and bus bridging in industrial controllers, motor control pre-processing, legacy telecommunication interface cards, and educational/development platforms where the established MAX+PLUS II or Quartus design flows remain in use. The PQFP-144 package supports through-hole-friendly fine-pitch surface-mount assembly. When designing with this device, note that the 2.5 V core requires careful decoupling, and configuration data must be reloaded at every power-up since the SRAM cells are volatile. For new designs, consider the Cyclone series for active lifecycle support; the ACEX 1K family has been EOL for many years.
EP1K50TI144-3N - 50K-Gate ACEX 1K FPGA, 102 I/O, 144-TQFP | Altera
The Altera (now Intel Programmable Solutions Group) EP1K50TI144-3N is a 50,000-gate member of the ACEX 1K family of CMOS field-programmable gate arrays, housed in a 144-pin TQFP (Industrial-grade, -3 speed grade, lead-free) package. The device integrates 2,880 logic elements, 40,960 bits of embedded array (EAB) SRAM, and provides 102 user I/O pins on a 2.5 V core supply (VCCINT 2.375 V to 2.625 V), with separate VCCIO banks supporting mixed-voltage I/O standards. ACEX 1K is a fine-grain, SRAM-based FPGA family introduced by Altera in the late 1990s and built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process. It is positioned in the taxonomy: FPGA -> programmable logic device (PLD) -> logic IC -> integrated circuit. The "EP1K" prefix denotes the family, "50" the gate-count tier (50K system gates), "TI" indicates the TQFP-144 industrial-temperature package, and the "-3N" suffix marks the -3 speed grade (fastest of the three ACEX 1K grades) with lead-free (Pb-free) NiPdAu terminal finish. Key features include up to 49,760 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements (LEs), 40 embedded array blocks (EABs, each 4 Kbit, total 40,960 RAM bits), 102 maximum user I/O, in-system programmability via a 4-pin JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) interface plus a passive-serial configuration scheme, multiVolt I/O supporting 2.5 V / 3.3 V / 5.0 V interfacing, and industrial operating temperature range of -40 °C to +85 °C. The -3 speed grade delivers internal clock frequencies above 166 MHz and is suited to glue-logic, bus-interface, and DSP-front-end designs. Typical applications include industrial control and factory-automation glue logic, communications infrastructure line-card glue logic, legacy PCI/ISA bus bridges, telecom backplane controllers, and cost-sensitive DSP pre-/post-processing pipelines where 50K gates are sufficient. The TQFP-144 industrial package is widely used in long-lifecycle designs where surface-mount rework and standard PCB-assembly processes are required. When designing, observe that ACEX 1K is volatile and must be configured from a serial PROM or a microprocessor on every power-up. The device uses a 2.5 V core supply and requires a configuration clock and DONE/Open-drain configuration-status signals to the host. A 100 µF bulk plus 0.1 µF decoupling network per VCC/VCCIO pin is recommended, plus a JTAG chain that supports ISP and board-level testing. Note that the ACEX 1K family has been in NRND/EOL transition since the mid-2010s - verify long-term supply before new design-in. This page synthesizes distributor inventory, drop-in ACEX 1K speed-grade alternatives, and practical configuration-layout guidance not consolidated in the original Altera datasheet.
EP1K50TI144-4 - ACEX 1K FPGA 50K Gates 144-TQFP | Altera
The Altera (now Intel) EP1K50TI144-4 is a member of the ACEX 1K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) housed in a 144-pin TQFP package. Built on a 2.5 V CMOS process, the EP1K50 family integrates up to 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements (LEs), and 40,960 bits of embedded array (EAB) SRAM organized into 5 Embedded Array Blocks. The device provides 102 user I/O pins plus 6 dedicated input pins, supporting a maximum clock frequency of 90 MHz at the -4 speed grade. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device that allows hardware designers to configure digital logic blocks, interconnects, and I/O after manufacture. FPGAs sit within the broader category of programmable logic devices (PLDs), alongside CPLDs and SPLDs, and are widely used for glue logic, prototyping, custom interfaces, signal processing pipelines, and ASIC emulation. The ACEX 1K family specifically targets low-cost, high-volume applications where traditional gate-array ASICs are uneconomical. Key features of the EP1K50TI144-4 include 2,880 logic elements, 40,960 bits of embedded SRAM, MultiVolt I/O supporting 2.5 V and 3.3 V interfacing on the same die, and 6 dedicated clock/abort input pins. The -4 speed grade places it in the slower tier of the family, but this is acceptable for industrial glue logic, peripheral bridging, and parallel interface expansion. The TQFP-144 package (0.5 mm pitch) is a plastic surface-mount land-grid-compatible outline allowing hand-rework and visual inspection. Typical applications include industrial control interfaces, parallel bus bridges, custom peripheral controllers, telecommunications line cards (legacy designs), and ASIC prototyping. The wide operating voltage tolerance (2.375 V to 2.625 V core) combined with 3.3 V-tolerant I/O makes it a flexible bridge between older 5 V-tolerant peripherals and modern 2.5 V cores when used with external level shifters. Designers should note that the ACEX 1K family is now legacy. Quartus II software is required for design entry, and the EP1K50TI144-4 is supported in legacy toolchains. New designs should evaluate Cyclone series or MAX II CPLDs for equivalent functionality with modern tool support. This page synthesizes pricing data from active distributors, drop-in compatible ACEX 1K speed-grade and package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original datasheet, helping engineers source and migrate from this legacy FPGA.
EP1K50TI144-4N - ACEX 1K FPGA 50K Gates 102 I/O TQFP-144 | Altera
The Altera EP1K50TI144-4N is a member of the ACEX 1K programmable logic device family, a 2.5V SRAM-based FPGA offering 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements, and 102 user I/O pins housed in a 144-pin Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP-144) package. It is built on a 0.18 µm CMOS process and targets glue-logic, bus-interface, and moderate-density state-machine applications where discrete CPLDs or multiple 74-series devices would otherwise be required. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that combines configurable logic blocks (LEs), programmable routing, and I/O cells into a single silicon die. Within the broader semiconductor hierarchy, an FPGA sits under the umbrella of programmable logic (PLD > CPLD > FPGA). The ACEX 1K family belongs to the low-cost, moderate-density segment of the Altera (now Intel) portfolio, designed to replace multiple discrete logic ICs with one re-programmable device that can be re-flashed in-system via JTAG. Key features include 40,960 typical usable gates, a 12.6 Kbit embedded array block (EAB) for memory or multiplier functions, six dedicated input pins, hot-socketing support, and MultiVolt I/O allowing 2.5V/3.3V/5.0V interfacing. The -4 speed grade is one of the faster bin selections in the family, supporting system clock frequencies up to approximately 90 MHz depending on the design's logic depth. The device is configured at power-up from a serial configuration EPROM or via the JTAG port. Architecturally, each logic element contains a 4-input look-up table (LUT), a programmable register, carry-chain logic, and cascade-chain logic for wide functions. The embedded array blocks (EABs) provide dual-port RAM, ROM, or synchronous arithmetic functions, making the EP1K50TI144-4N suitable for FIFO buffers, small DSP blocks, and protocol translators. Configuration bitstream is loaded from an EPC2 or EPC8 serial configuration device. Typical applications include bus-interface bridging (e.g., PCI to local bus), industrial control glue logic, telecommunications backplane multiplexing, low-density data-path processing, and prototyping of larger Altera designs before silicon migration to Cyclone or MAX families. Designers moving production volumes today usually port to the equivalent logic on a Cyclone III/IV device, but the EP1K50TI144-4N remains a valuable drop-in for legacy boards and long-life industrial equipment. When designing with this device, observe the 2.375V-2.625V core supply tolerance, place 0.1 µF decoupling capacitors within 5 mm of every supply pin, and tie unused I/O banks to a defined logic level through the Quartus software's default pin assignment. The configuration pins (nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE) must be pulled correctly during power-up sequencing to prevent partial configuration. This page synthesizes distributor availability, drop-in speed-grade alternatives (EP1K50TI144-3N, EP1K50TI144-2N), and practical design notes not found in the Altera datasheet alone, enabling direct sourcing and substitution decisions.
EP1K50TL144-2 - ACEX 1K FPGA 50K Gates 144-TQFP | Altera
The Altera (now Intel) EP1K50TL144-2 is a member of the ACEX 1K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), delivering up to 50,000 typical gates in a 144-pin TQFP package with industrial-grade temperature rating. Built on a 2.5V core with 0.18 um process technology, the EP1K50TL144-2 provides 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 2,880 logic elements, and 40,960 RAM bits of embedded memory. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a reprogrammable integrated circuit that allows hardware designers to implement custom digital logic through configuration rather than mask-level fabrication. FPGAs belong to the broader category of programmable logic devices (PLDs), sitting alongside CPLDs (Complex PLDs) and SPLDs (Simple PLDs), and serve as the silicon foundation for digital signal processing, glue logic, prototyping, and high-volume parallel hardware. ACEX 1K was Altera's low-cost FPGA line, occupying the space between simple CPLDs and high-density FPGAs like APEX. Key features of the EP1K50TL144-2 include 102 user I/O pins, embedded array blocks (EABs) for dual-port memory implementation, and 2.5V core operation with MultiVolt I/O supporting 2.5V/3.3V/5.0V interfacing. The device also offers in-system programmability via JTAG, allowing rapid prototyping and field upgrades. Architecture-wise, the ACEX 1K family combines a continuous interconnect network (routing across rows and columns) with embedded array blocks for memory and specialized logic. The look-up table (LUT) based logic elements deliver efficient synthesis for state machines, datapaths, and bus interfaces, while EABs efficiently implement RAM, ROM, and DSP functions. Typical applications include DSL modem glue logic, low-cost switches and routers, PCI bridge designs, telecommunications interfaces, and industrial control systems. The 144-pin TQFP package and industrial temperature range also make the EP1K50TL144-2 well suited to legacy telecommunications infrastructure and embedded prototyping. When designing with this device, note that the ACEX 1K family requires configuration via MAX+PLUS II or Quartus software (legacy support required), and the 144-pin TQFP package has limited I/O headroom for high-pin-count designs. Engineers migrating from ACEX 1K should plan for Cyclone or MAX II successors for new designs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same ACEX 1K family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet - useful for engineers maintaining legacy systems.
EP1K50TQ144-1 - ACEX 1K FPGA 50K Gates 144-TQFP | Intel (Altera)
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1K50TQ144-1 is a member of the ACEX 1K programmable logic device family, providing 50,000 typical gates and 2,880 logic elements in a 144-pin TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) package. Built on a 0.22 µm SRAM-process technology with a 2.5 V core supply, this device delivers up to 250 MHz internal operation and integrates dual-port RAM and a Look-Up Table (LUT)-based logic fabric. The '-1' speed grade denotes the standard-performance timing bin within the ACEX 1K lineup, while 'TQ144' specifies the TQFP-144 package outline. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit whose logic function is defined by a user-supplied configuration bitstream rather than at the foundry. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable logic hierarchy (PLD -> CPLD -> FPGA -> SoC FPGA) and are used to implement custom digital logic, glue logic, state machines, DSP pipelines, and full processor subsystems after PCB fabrication. The ACEX 1K family was Altera's low-cost, 2.5 V entry in the early-2000s FPGA market, targeting glue-logic, communications, and industrial-control applications where ASIC NRE was not justified. Key features of the EP1K50TQ144-1 include 102 maximum user I/O pins, 40,960 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements (LEs), 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), embedded dual-port RAM blocks (EABs) totaling 40 Kbits, in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 (JTAG) and the Altera EPC4/EPC8/EPC16 enhanced configuration devices, multiVolt I/O supporting 2.5 V / 3.3 V interfaces, and LVTTL/LVCMOS/LVDS/LVDS-compatible signaling. The device operates from a 0 °C to +70 °C commercial temperature range (commercial grade for the -1 speed bin at TQFP-144). Architecturally, the ACEX 1K combines a continuous interconnect network with embedded array blocks (EABs) that implement memory and complex logic functions. Each LE contains a 4-input LUT, a programmable register, and dedicated carry and cascade chains, while each EAB provides up to 4 Kbits of dual-port RAM or ROM. The 0.22 µm process and 2.5 V core reduce power relative to 5 V PLDs of the same era, and the JTAG-based ISP enables board-level reconfiguration without removing the part. Typical applications include low-cost glue logic, communications protocol bridges, industrial control, display controllers, and legacy system refresh where a pin-compatible second-source is required. The TQFP-144 footprint supports hand-soldering and rework, useful for prototypes and low-volume production. When designing with this device, mind the 2.5 V VCCINT supply — a separate VCCIO bank is needed for 3.3 V interfaces, and configuration must use an Altera EPC-series device or a microprocessor-driven passive-serial scheme. The part is mature/legacy; consult Intel's product lifecycle notices for current status before committing new designs. This page synthesizes drop-in TQFP-144 alternates from the ACEX 1K family, current distributor pricing, and practical design notes not found in the original datasheet.
EP1K50VFC484-1 - ACEX 1K FPGA, 50K Gates, 484-BGA | Altera
The Altera EP1K50VFC484-1 is a member of the ACEX 1K programmable logic device family, providing low-cost system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration in a single 484-ball FineLine BGA package. The device integrates 50,000 typical gates, 2,880 logic elements, and 40,960 bits of embedded array block (EAB) memory across 360 logic array blocks (LABs) with 249 user I/O pins. The "V" suffix denotes the 2.5V core voltage family with extended commercial temperature grade, while "-1" indicates the speed grade. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be configured by the customer or designer after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital logic functions. ACEX 1K devices belong to the broader category of programmable logic devices (PLDs), specifically the SRAM-based FPGA hierarchy, which sit alongside CPLDs (Complex Programmable Logic Devices) and ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) in the digital designer's toolkit. The ACEX 1K family pioneered low-cost embedded memory integration through its EAB architecture, predating modern embedded block RAM patterns. Key features of the EP1K50VFC484-1 include dual-port EAB memory with up to 16 bits wide per block, multi-voltage I/O support for 2.5V/3.3V/5.0V interfacing through dedicated bank configuration, and JTAG-based IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan testing. The FineLine BGA package supports high I/O density on compact PCBs, making the device suitable for pin-constrained glue logic, custom interfacing, and parallel processing subsystems. The architecture combines a fine-grained logic element fabric with coarse-grained EAB blocks for memory and specialized functions like multipliers and CAMs. Configuration is stored in SRAM cells requiring an external configuration device (typically an EPC series companion), and reconfiguration can occur in-system via JTAG or passive serial/parallel modes. Typical applications span telecommunications line cards, industrial control boards, military/aerospace embedded systems (where extended temperature operation is required), networking routers and bridges, and test equipment where the 360 LAB count provides balanced logic density for custom state machines and datapath integration. When designing with this device, ensure the configuration scheme matches the available controller interface (passive serial, passive parallel, JTAG, or active serial with EPC companion). Decoupling must include 0.1uF ceramic capacitors adjacent to every power pin, and unused I/O banks should be left at valid logic levels to avoid input hysteresis issues. Note that ACEX 1K is an older legacy family - new designs should verify long-term availability before committing. This page synthesizes distributor stock data, same-package ACEX 1K drop-in alternatives, and ACEX-family design considerations not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet.
EP1K50XXB - ACEX-1K FPGA, 50K Gates, 2880 LEs | Intel
The Intel EP1K50XXB is a member of the ACEX-1K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) built on a 0.18-micron SRAM process. The device integrates approximately 50,000 typical gates with 2,880 logic elements (LEs), 40,960 RAM bits, and a 2.5 V core supply, delivering low-cost programmable logic for high-volume glue-logic, bus-bridging, and signal-processing applications. What is an FPGA? A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (LBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that can be re-programmed after manufacture to implement arbitrary digital logic functions. FPGAs sit hierarchically between Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) at the most efficient extreme and microcontrollers at the most flexible extreme, offering hardware-timed parallelism, deterministic latency, and rapid prototyping without mask costs. The ACEX-1K family was Intel's first SRAM-based, low-cost FPGA line, later superseded by Cyclone but still deployed in long-lifecycle industrial, telecom, and legacy computing platforms. Key features of the EP1K50XXB include 2,880 logic elements, 40,960 embedded system RAM bits, embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory functions, JTAG-based in-system programmability (ISP) via IEEE 1149.1 boundary scan, and a multi-voltage I/O interface compatible with 3.3 V, 2.5 V, and 1.8 V standards. The device supports a maximum user I/O count that varies with package and up to 80 MHz internal operation in commercial grade. The EP1K50XXB uses Intel's Look-Up Table (LUT)-based logic element architecture combined with dedicated embedded array blocks for efficient on-chip memory and DSP-style functions. Each LE contains a 4-input LUT, a programmable register, carry-chain logic for arithmetic, and a cascade chain for wide fan-in functions, providing flexible and predictable timing closure for glue-logic and state-machine designs. Typical applications include bus-interface bridging (e.g., PCI to local bus), digital signal processing front-ends, industrial control and instrumentation, telecom line cards, legacy peripheral controllers, and ASIC prototyping platforms. The EP1K50XXB is particularly well-suited for designs migrating from discrete TTL/CMOS glue logic where deterministic timing and parallel processing outperform microcontrollers. When designing with this device, note that the ACEX-1K family is in legacy/last-time-buy status with limited authorized stock; long-term designs should validate supply continuity and consider migrating to Cyclone or MAX series for new projects. Configuration storage requires a serial configuration EEPROM or JTAG programmer because the SRAM-based fabric is volatile. This page synthesizes distributor inventory, package options, and practical migration guidance not found in the original Altera datasheet, supporting engineers maintaining legacy ACEX-1K-based designs and evaluating same-family pin-compatible alternatives.
EP1K50XXC - 50K Gate ACEX FPGA, 2880 LEs | Intel
The Intel EP1K50XXC is a member of the ACEX 1K family of SRAM-based FPGAs, integrating 50,000 typical gates and 2,880 logic elements into a single high-density programmable logic device. The device is built on a 0.18 µm CMOS process with embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory and a four-input look-up table (LUT) architecture, providing a balance of logic density, embedded memory, and I/O flexibility for cost-sensitive digital designs. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be configured by the customer or designer after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital logic. FPGAs sit in the programmable logic hierarchy between fixed-function ASICs and software-driven microcontrollers: microcontrollers execute firmware, while FPGAs realize parallel hardware pipelines. The ACEX 1K family specifically targets glue logic, bus interfacing, and moderate-complexity state machine replacement where a small CPLD is too small but a full ASIC is uneconomical. Key features of the EP1K50XXC include 2,880 logic elements, 40 embedded array blocks (EABs) providing 40 Kbits of dual-port RAM, a maximum of 333 user I/O pins, and 5 V tolerant I/O with multi-voltage support. The device operates from a 2.5 V core supply, is in-system programmable via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface, and supports configuration via passive serial, active serial, and JTAG modes for flexible factory or field programming. The ACEX 1K architecture combines an efficient logic-element fabric with distributed embedded memory, allowing designers to implement FIFOs, look-up tables, and small register files without external SRAM. Each EAB provides 4 Kbits of memory configurable as RAM, ROM, or dual-port RAM, and the four-input LUTs deliver 16x1 memory that can be cascaded into wider or deeper structures when needed. Typical applications for the EP1K50XXC include peripheral bus bridging (PCI to local bus), glue logic for microcontroller and DSP co-processing, telecom line-card interface logic, industrial control state machines, and legacy ASIC replacement for low-to-medium volume production. The wide 5 V tolerant I/O simplifies interfacing to legacy TTL/CMOS logic without external level shifters. When designing with the EP1K50XXC, ensure that the Quartus design tool is configured for the ACEX 1K device family, as newer Quartus versions have dropped support for this older family. Plan I/O bank assignments to match voltage requirements, and use the JTAG interface for in-system programming during prototype bring-up. This page synthesizes distributor stock levels, package options, and verified drop-in alternatives not consolidated on any single distributor product page, helping engineers evaluating legacy ACEX 1K designs make sourcing and second-source decisions in a single view.
EP1M120B484C5 - Mercury FPGA, 120K Gates, BGA-484 | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1M120B484C5 is a member of the Mercury family of FPGAs, offering 120,000 system gates in a 484-ball FineLine BGA package. The Mercury family is built on a 0.18-micron CMOS process and integrates up to 4,800 logic elements with embedded system blocks for high-speed I/O, dual-port RAM, and clock management. According to the Altera Mercury family datasheet, the device is targeted at high-speed communications, networking, and DSP front-end designs that require fast time-to-market. What is an FPGA? A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device containing programmable logic blocks, interconnect, and I/O resources that can be configured by the end user after manufacture. FPGAs sit in the broader category of programmable logic devices (PLDs), which includes CPLDs and older PAL/GAL devices. Within Intel's product hierarchy, the Mercury family is positioned between the APEX family and the Stratix family, optimized for high-speed LVDS and HSTL I/O with embedded multiplier support for DSP pipelines. Key specifications include 120,000 typical gates, 4,800 logic elements, 4 PLLs, and up to 303 user I/O pins. The Mercury architecture includes embedded system blocks that combine dedicated dual-port RAM, true-LVDS circuitry, and high-speed I/O capable of transferring data at 840 Mbps per channel. The device supports multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, HSTL, LVDS, and LVPECL. The Mercury family uses a continuous, hierarchical interconnect fabric driven by row and column routing resources. Logic elements contain a 4-input look-up table (LUT), a programmable register, and dedicated carry and cascade chains for arithmetic operations. The 0.18-micron CMOS process allows the device to operate with a core voltage of 1.8V while supporting 1.5V, 1.8V, 2.5V, and 3.3V I/O banks through selectable reference voltages. Typical applications include high-speed serial backplane interfaces, SONET/SDH framer cards, network switch fabrics, DSP co-processing for baseband designs, and instrumentation data acquisition. The integrated LVDS channels make the EP1M120B484C5 particularly well-suited for designs requiring low-jitter differential signaling between FPGAs and external analog-to-digital converters. When designing with this device, engineers should note that the Mercury family is a legacy product line now serviced under Intel's product longevity program. Modern designs should consider Cyclone IV/V or MAX 10 for new platforms, but existing Mercury designs remain supported for long-lifecycle industrial and aerospace programs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same Mercury family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP1M120B484C6 - Mercury 120 LE FPGA 484-BGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP1M120B484C6 is a Mercury-family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the Altera ACEX 1M series, delivering 120 typical logic elements in a 484-ball FineLine BGA (BGA-484) package with commercial temperature grade. It is part of the original Mercury PLD line introduced by Altera in the early 2000s for low-cost, low-density glue-logic and bus-interface designs, offering up to 4,800 flip-flops and a maximum of 303 user I/O pins for high-pin-count applications. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and programmable I/O cells. Unlike an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an FPGA's function is defined after manufacturing by loading a user-supplied configuration bitstream into on-chip SRAM cells. FPGAs sit hierarchically above simple PLDs, below structured ASICs, and within the broader class of programmable logic devices (PLDs), which also include CPLDs (Complex Programmable Logic Devices). The Mercury device family is engineered for cost-sensitive, high-I/O bridging and interface-conversion tasks. Key features of the EP1M120B484C6 include up to 303 user I/O pins distributed across multiple I/O banks, on-chip SRAM for data buffering, JTAG-based IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan support for board-level test, and a 220°C peak reflow temperature rating compatible with lead-free surface-mount assembly. The 484-ball BGA package exposes ground and power pins on the inner rows to maintain signal integrity at the high I/O counts typical of the 1M family. The device is built on a 0.18 µm SRAM-based process with an embedded configuration memory, requiring an external configuration device or download cable to load the SRAM bitstream at every power-up. Its architecture combines lookup-table (LUT) logic with carry chains for arithmetic and cascade chains for wide fan-in functions, similar in concept to later Cyclone and MAX families but optimized for the low-density, high-I/O bridging role that defined Mercury-class designs. Typical applications include bus-interface bridging (PCI to local bus), glue-logic integration in embedded computing platforms, video and image processing front ends, telecommunications line-card interface logic, and industrial-control I/O expansion. Engineers selecting Mercury-class FPGAs typically target designs in the 600 to 4,000 logic-element range where a full Cyclone-class device would be over-spec. Design considerations for the EP1M120B484C6 include BGA PCB routing complexity for the 484-ball footprint, decoupling strategy across multiple I/O banks, and configuration-source selection (EPCS serial flash, JTAG, or microprocessor-driven PS mode). Engineers should also verify that the Quartus II design software version in use still supports Mercury devices, as newer Quartus releases have progressively dropped legacy family support. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, Mercury-family drop-in alternatives, and practical PCB-layout considerations not consolidated in the original Altera datasheet.
EP1M120B484C7 - 49,152 Logic Elements, 4800 Kbit, BGA-484 FPGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1M120B484C7 is a Mercury-class Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) housed in a 484-ball FineLine BGA (BGA-484, FCBGA) package, targeting high-density logic, embedded memory and high-speed I/O applications. It integrates 49,152 logic elements backed by 4,800 Kbits of embedded SRAM, with 303 user I/O pins and a 1.5 V core supply. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, embedded memory blocks, DSP slices, and high-speed transceivers, all re-configurable by the end user. FPGAs occupy a unique position in the programmable logic hierarchy: above ASICs in flexibility, below microprocessors in deterministic real-time performance, and alongside CPLDs at the low-density end. They are widely used for prototyping, low-volume production, hardware acceleration, and applications requiring parallel processing. The Mercury family adds PLLs and LVDS-capable I/O, placing the EP1M120B484C7 between cost-optimized Cyclone devices and high-performance Stratix parts. The EP1M120B484C7 differentiates itself through 49,152 logic elements (typical Mercury range), 4,800 Kbits of embedded SRAM, 303 user I/O pins with multi-standard I/O support (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, LVDS), up to 12 PLLs for clock management, and a maximum user I/O count that supports wide parallel buses. The 1.5 V core, 0.13 µm process node, and embedded SRAM are organized to support high-throughput datapath designs. Architecturally, the device is built on a 0.13 µm CMOS process with SRAM-based configuration cells, allowing unlimited re-programmability in-system. Multi-voltage I/O banks support mixed 1.5 V / 1.8 V / 2.5 V / 3.3 V signaling, and the embedded PLL blocks deliver low-jitter clock multiplication for serializer/deserializer and DDR memory interfaces. Typical applications include telecom line cards and baseband processing, industrial motor control and machine vision, test and measurement instrumentation with deep trace buffers, military/aerospace signal processing, and high-speed data acquisition front-ends. The 303 user I/O count is particularly attractive for parallel bus interfaces (PCI, DDR, LVDS) and for designs that need many single-ended I/O without external bus switches. When designing with this device, plan for proper decoupling (100 µF bulk + 0.1 µF per VCC pin), controlled-impedance PCB stack-up for LVDS/DDR, and thermal relief via thermal balls/balls-to-plane connection, since BGA packages dissipate heat primarily through the PCB. Configuration via JTAG or passive serial configuration device requires an EPC2 or compatible PROM for in-system programming. Use the Quartus II design software (legacy support required) for development. This page synthesizes distributor stock levels, package-same-family drop-in alternatives, and practical BGA-layout guidance not found in any single distributor listing - giving engineers a one-stop decision page for sourcing the EP1M120B484C7.
EP1M120B484C7A - Mercury FPGA 49K LE 484-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1M120B484C7A is a member of the Mercury family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA), delivering 49,152 logic elements (sometimes cited as 49,200) and 4,800 Kbits of embedded memory in a 484-ball FineLine BGA (FCBGA) package with a 484-ball FineLine BGA ball grid. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that allows designers to configure arbitrary digital logic after PCB fabrication, sitting between fixed-function ASICs and software-driven microcontrollers in the design hierarchy. FPGAs integrate configurable logic blocks (LEs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated hard IP such as memory blocks, PLLs, and high-speed transceivers, making them the workhorse of digital prototyping, high-performance DSP, and high-bandwidth I/O bridging. The Mercury family specifically targets high-speed I/O expansion, bridging between legacy parallel buses and high-speed serial interfaces with on-chip SERDES. Key features include up to 303 maximum user I/O pins, 1.5V core voltage, support for multiple I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, LVDS), and embedded RAM blocks. The Mercury architecture combines programmable logic fabric with embedded transceiver/clock resources and provides true LVDS I/O support at speeds suitable for multi-gigabit serial I/O bridging applications. Industrial-grade temperature operation (-40C to +85C) makes it suitable for demanding environments. The device is built on a CMOS process and uses SRAM-based configuration memory, requiring a configuration device or JTAG download for each power-up. Internal PLLs support flexible clock management, while embedded memory blocks can be configured as RAM, ROM, or FIFO. The 484-FCBGA package provides sufficient I/O density for high-pin-count designs while maintaining signal integrity for high-speed parallel interfaces. Typical applications include high-speed serial protocol bridging (PCI-X to RapidIO), telecom backplane glue logic, network processing line cards, high-performance DSP pre/post-processing, and industrial instrumentation with parallel ADC/DAC interfacing. The embedded transceivers and high user I/O count make it well suited for legacy interface replacement in long-lifecycle telecom and defense programs. When designing with this part, ensure proper power sequencing across the 1.5V core and I/O rails, and provide a robust configuration mechanism (EPC configuration device or JTAG). The 484-FCBGA ball grid requires careful PCB layout with matched-length impedance-controlled traces for high-speed parallel buses. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-family drop-in alternatives from the Site MPN list, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, providing information gain beyond raw spec repetition.
EP1M120B484C8A - 120 LE Mercury FPGA 484-BGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP1M120B484C8A is a member of the Mercury FPGA family that delivers approximately 120 logic elements in a 484-ball FineLine BGA package with industrial-grade temperature specifications. The Mercury device family targets high-speed signal-processing and SERDES-friendly glue logic, and this particular variant is the speed-grade-8 commercial-temperature configuration. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a type of integrated circuit that contains an array of programmable logic blocks, programmable interconnect, and configurable I/O cells, allowing the designer to implement custom digital logic after manufacturing. FPGAs sit at the top of the digital IC hierarchy alongside ASICs and CPLDs, occupying the programmable-logic sub-segment of the broader semiconductor category. They are widely used as a flexible alternative to fixed-function ASICs in applications ranging from glue logic to high-throughput data-path acceleration. Key specifications for this device include an approximate 120-logic-element fabric, 484-ball FineLine BGA package, peak reflow compatibility up to 220C (per JEDEC J-STD-020), and industrial commercial-temperature grade operation. The Mercury family supports high-speed I/O and is intended for prototyping, bridge logic, and small-volume designs. The 'B484' suffix in the part number designates the BGA-484 package while 'C8' denotes commercial temperature with the speed grade 8 designation. Technically, the Mercury architecture implements logic through LUTs feeding routing interconnect, with embedded I/O elements supporting multiple I/O standards. Because this part belongs to an older Altera product line that has been superseded by Cyclone series devices, current lifecycle status should be verified through authorized distributors. The component is widely listed across distributor catalogs as a programmable IC with leaded or lead-free soldering terminations depending on the specific reel code. Typical applications for this Mercury device include legacy industrial control boards, telecom interface bridges, custom datapath logic, and ASIC prototyping. The 484-ball BGA package also supports high pin-count designs with many simultaneous I/O channels. Compared with newer low-cost FPGA families such as Altera Cyclone II/III, the EP1M120B484C8A offers a smaller logic capacity but maintains a compatible design flow for legacy code bases. When designing with this part, verify timing closure against the device handbook and confirm that the selected Quartus II version still supports the Mercury device family. Lead-free assembly is supported up to the 220C peak reflow profile. For new designs, consider the EP1C6Q240C8 or EP1K100FC484-2 as alternatives with broader software support and active distributor stock. This page synthesizes distributor catalog information, drop-in same-family variants from the XAIPART site MPN list, and practical design notes that are not consolidated in a single place on the manufacturer datasheet. Where the device handbook does not provide a hard number, [DATA_NEEDED] markers are used so engineers can pull the authoritative value from the datasheet before finalizing a design.