Memory ICs
Subcategories
Products (476)
EPC1213LI20 - 212Kb OTP Serial Config PROM for FPGAs | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPC1213LI20 is a 212-kilobit one-time programmable (OTP) serial configuration PROM designed to store and load configuration bitstreams for SRAM-based Altera/Intel FPGAs, housed in a 20-pin PLCC (9x9 mm) package with industrial temperature grade support. It delivers a maximum configuration clock support suitable for FLEX, ACEX, APEX, Cyclone, Cyclone II, Stratix, Stratix GX, Stratix II, and Stratix II GX device families, and operates from a single 3.3 V or 5 V supply with multi-voltage I/O compatibility. A Configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device that holds the FPGA configuration bitstream and serially transfers it to the SRAM-based FPGA at power-up, after system reset, or whenever reconfiguration is required. Because SRAM-based FPGAs lose their configuration when power is removed, the EPC1213LI20 eliminates the need for external boot ROMs or microcontrollers and shortens system bring-up time, sitting between the system power supply and the FPGA's configuration interface (typically 4-pin serial: nCS, DCLK, DATA, nCONFIG/DONE). Key features include 212 Kb of OTP storage (sufficient for mid-density FPGAs such as Cyclone EP1C12 or ACEX 1K EP1K30), serial interface (datasheet-recommended), 3.3 V/5 V VCC operation with 3.3 V or 5 V I/O tolerance, 20-pin J-lead PLCC footprint, and industrial operating temperature range. Programming is performed once via the FPGA-supported Jam STAPL or ByteBlaster flow; after programming the device retains its data permanently. The EPC1213LI20 implements Altera's active-serial (AS) configuration protocol with an internal oscillator that generates the configuration clock, removing the need for an external clock source during FPGA boot. Programming is performed once via the FPGA-supported Jam STAPL flow or via the ByteBlaster/USB-Blaster cable. Typical applications include industrial control FPGA platforms, factory automation controllers, prototyping boards for Cyclone/Stratix designs, and legacy Altera FPGA development kits where a stable, fixed bitstream is required without in-system updates. Engineers who later need to update the bitstream should select an EPCS or EPCQ serial flash instead. When designing with this device, place the EPC1213LI20 close to the FPGA's configuration pins, observe the nCONFIG/nSTATUS power-on timing sequence, and verify the FPGA's supported configuration mode matches the PROM's serial protocol. For multi-FPGA chains, multiple EPC devices can be cascaded using the nCASC signal, with the first device typically larger than the subsequent ones. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in Altera/Intel PROM alternatives, and practical design considerations not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EPC1213PC8 - 212Kb OTP Config PROM 8-PDIP | Altera / Intel
The Altera EPC1213PC8 is a one-time-programmable (OTP) serial configuration memory designed to load the configuration bitstream into Altera FLEX-series and APEX-series FPGAs at power-up, supplied in an 8-pin plastic DIP (PDIP) through-hole package. The device stores 212 Kbits of configuration data and presents them serially to the target FPGA through a 4-pin industry-standard configuration interface (nCS, DCLK, DATA, OE) at the FPP or PS configuration mode speed. Operating from a single 3.3 V supply, the EPC1213PC8 supports a configuration clock up to 6 MHz and is specified over the commercial 0 °C to +70 °C temperature range. OTP configuration PROMs are non-volatile serial memories used to retain FPGA bitstream data while the host system is powered down, so the FPGA can self-configure at every power-on without a separate microcontroller or boot flash. EPC1-family members belong to the broader EEPROM-based configuration-PROM hierarchy (serial configuration PROM -> configuration memory IC -> programmable logic support -> programmable logic device ecosystem), bridging the FLEX/APEX FPGA family and modern EPCQ/Avalon-ST configuration memories. The EPC1213PC8 is built on a 5 V CMOS EEPROM cell with on-chip charge-pump and oscillator, packaged in an 8-pin PDIP with a typical standby current below 50 µA. The OTP array is programmed via IEEE Std 1532 / Jam STAPL using Altera's programming hardware, after which the device becomes read-only. Internal address-counter auto-increment and a dedicated open-drain OE pin simplify the interface to the FPGA's CONF_DONE / nCONFIG pins. Typical applications include legacy FLEX 6000 / FLEX 8000 / FLEX 10K / APEX 20K board boot storage, industrial control retrofits, and replacement designs for end-of-life Altera FPGAs in long-lifecycle equipment. The 8-pin PDIP form factor is also convenient for bench programming fixtures and low-volume manufacturing. When designing with the EPC1213PC8, observe that nCS must toggle before DCLK and that OE must follow the FPGAs nSTATUS-to-high transition. Decoupling of 100 nF close to VCC is required; the device shares its pinout with EPC1064/EPC1441 in the same 8-PDIP. For legacy multi-FPGA chains, cascade multiple EPC1213PC8 devices to expand storage beyond 212 Kb, with each PROM driving the next PROM's nCS via its OE pin.
EPC1213PI8 - 212Kb OTP Config PROM for FPGAs | Altera DIP-8
The Altera (now Intel) EPC1213PI8 is a 212-kilobit one-time-programmable (OTP) serial configuration PROM designed to store and load configuration bitstreams into SRAM-based Altera FPGAs. The device is housed in an 8-pin PDIP through-hole package, operates at up to 6 MHz configuration clock rate, and uses a serial 4-pin configuration interface to stream data to the target FPGA on power-up or reconfiguration. A configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device that stores the FPGA's bitstream so that the SRAM-based logic fabric inside the FPGA can be reloaded on every power-up. The EPC1213PI8 belongs to the broader memory IC hierarchy (PROM -> non-volatile memory -> memory IC) and is functionally equivalent to a small serial Flash with an FPGA-aware controller. It supports FLEX 10K, FLEX 6000, ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, APEX II, Mercury, Cyclone, Cyclone II, Stratix, Stratix GX, Stratix II, Stratix II GX, and Arria GX device families, making it a long-standing legacy configuration solution. Key features include 212 Kb of storage (208 K words x 1 bit), 6 MHz maximum configuration clock frequency, simple 4-wire serial interface (nCS, DCLK, DATA, OE), and 3.3 V or 5 V core supply operation. OTP programming is performed once using Altera's programming hardware; subsequent read operations are unlimited and reliable for the life of the system. The 8-pin PDIP package simplifies hand prototyping and legacy through-hole designs where socketed configuration memory is desired for in-system replacement. Technically, the EPC1213PI8 implements a state machine that accepts the FPGA's nSTATUS and CONF_DONE handshakes, presents a synchronous serial bitstream to the FPGA's DATA0/DCLK pins, and signals completion through the nCONFIG/CEO daisy-chain. The internal array is organized as 208 K x 1 bit for a 212 Kb user-visible capacity, with extra bits reserved for preamble, length count, and CRC check. Programmed parts retain data indefinitely under standard storage conditions and are rated for -40 C to +85 C industrial operation. Typical applications include legacy Altera FPGA design bring-up, factory configuration storage for production boards using FLEX 10K or Stratix devices, prototype boards that need socketed configuration memory for fast bitstream swapping, and field-replaceable configuration modules where end customers may upgrade FPGA firmware by swapping the DIP-8 PROM. The EPC1213PI8 is also used in educational lab kits and discontinued product re-spins where the original Altera configuration chain must remain intact for backward compatibility. When designing with this device, verify that the target FPGA's configuration scheme selects Master Serial Mode and that the EPC1213PI8 density covers the bitstream size (212 Kb supports FLEX 10K and smaller ACEX/Cyclone designs). Always include a 1 kohm pull-up on nCONFIG and a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor on VCC adjacent to the package pins. This page synthesizes distributor stock and pricing, configuration PROM cross-references, and Altera legacy design notes not aggregated on any single vendor page.
EPC1441-LC20 - 440kb OTP Configuration PROM, 20-PLCC | Altera
The Altera EPC1441-LC20 (also written EPC1441LC20) is a 440 kilobit one-time programmable (OTP) configuration PROM designed to serially load configuration bitstreams into SRAM-based Altera FPGA families including ACEX, APEX, FLEX, and Mercury devices. Housed in a 20-pin J-lead PLCC package measuring 9x9 mm, the EPC1441 stores the FPGA bitstream in an EPROM array and clocks it out through an internal oscillator using the DCLK, OE, and nCS control pins, eliminating the need for external memory controllers during FPGA bring-up. Configuration PROMs are dedicated serial non-volatile memories that sit beside an FPGA on the PCB and provide the FPGA's configuration bitstream at power-up or during reconfiguration. The EPC1441 belongs to Altera's EPC1, EPC2, and EPC1441 family of serial configuration devices, which are organized as a hierarchy of product type: configuration PROM -> serial configuration memory -> non-volatile memory -> memory IC -> semiconductor. In the system hierarchy they enable programmable logic -> digital IC -> integrated circuit. Compared to parallel EPROM or microcontroller-based boot schemes, a dedicated configuration PROM reduces BOM count, simplifies PCB layout, and guarantees timing-compatible handshakes with the target FPGA. Key features of the EPC1441-LC20 include 440 kb of OTP storage, an internal oscillator that generates the DCLK output, simple three-wire serial interface (DATA, DCLK, nCS) plus OE for output enable, an open-drain DATA output for wired-OR multi-device daisy-chaining, and 5V tolerant operation suitable for legacy 5V Altera FPGA families. The PLCC-20 package is socket-compatible, supporting both production through-hole soldering and field-replaceable prototyping via a low-cost PLCC socket. Typical applications include FPGA boot configuration for ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, FLEX 10K, FLEX 6000, and Mercury EP1M120 devices, factory programming stations for FPGA-based modules, industrial controllers with field-upgradable logic, and multi-FPCA daisy-chain configurations where multiple FPGAs load from a single configuration source. The EPC1441 is also used as a one-time-programmed bitstream vault in secure or safety-critical designs. When designing with the EPC1441-LC20, ensure the nCS, OE, and DCLK timing relationship matches the target FPGA's configuration controller. Use a 1 kohm pull-up on the open-drain DATA line and observe the tOE-to-DATA enable delay specified in the manufacturer datasheet. The PLCC socket should be rated for the operating temperature range and vibration profile of the end product. This page consolidates distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
EPC1441LC20 - 440 kb FPGA Configuration PROM | Altera | FPGA
Altera EPC1441LC20 is a 440 kb, one-time-programmable configuration PROM for SRAM-based FPGA and LUT devices, with a stated 8 MHz configuration-related performance figure and a 20-pin PLCC package measuring 9 mm by 9 mm. According to the supplied distributor and manufacturer-data references, the device provides nonvolatile storage used to reload configuration data when an FPGA powers up, when the system initializes, or when new configuration data is required. It is an integrated-circuit memory device in the configuration-PROM category and is associated with a 0 °C to 70 °C commercial temperature range in the supplied search data. A configuration PROM is a specialized nonvolatile memory IC that stores the bitstream required by an SRAM-based programmable logic device. Because SRAM-based FPGAs lose their logic configuration when power is removed, the configuration controller reads the PROM during startup and transfers the stored data to the target device. The hierarchy is configuration PROM -> nonvolatile memory -> FPGA configuration memory -> FPGA and CPLD support component. EPC1441LC20 belongs to Altera’s EPC14 configuration-device family, historically used for SRAM-based LUT devices. The principal identified feature is 440 kb of configuration memory, supplied in a 20-PLCC (9x9) package. Search references identify an 8 MHz configuration-memory performance value, while one distributor listing describes the device as a serial configuration memory. The one-time-programmable nature allows the configuration image to be stored before system operation, after which the PROM can provide the startup bitstream without a separate external programming port during normal operation. These characteristics make the part relevant to legacy FPGA boards, replacement systems, and designs requiring deterministic configuration storage. In a typical design, the EPC1441LC20 is connected to the FPGA configuration interface and selected during the device’s configuration cycle. The FPGA configuration controller reads the serial data and writes it into the SRAM-based logic fabric. The 8 MHz figure is a useful system-level timing reference, but the final configuration time depends on the target FPGA, interface mode, PROM setup, board loading, and controller behavior. Engineers should therefore use the complete device documentation and target-FPGA configuration timing information rather than treating the PROM figure as the only end-to-end timing value. Common applications include SRAM-based FPGA configuration, industrial control equipment with legacy Altera devices, communications or test equipment using programmable logic, and board-level replacement or repair. The 20-pin PLCC package is important for legacy footprints and should be checked against the PCB land pattern and pin numbering before procurement. Commercial-temperature operation from 0 °C to 70 °C is explicitly reported in the supplied Kynix listing, but voltage, current, interface voltage, programming procedure, and absolute maximum ratings require confirmation from the manufacturer datasheet. For new designs, verify whether the FPGA can use a compatible configuration source, whether the EPC1441LC20 has sufficient capacity for the generated bitstream, and whether the board provides the required reset, configuration-clock, data, and handshake signals. The package and pinout must be cross-checked against the original design and the latest manufacturer documentation. Pricing and availability are time-sensitive; the supplied distributor search result states “Buy now, ships today,” but current stock and lead time should be confirmed with the distributor before release to production. This product data combines verified web specifications, package and temperature information, pricing availability signals, application context, and engineering considerations. It is intended to support component selection, legacy-board maintenance, and informed sourcing while marking unverified electrical characteristics as data-needed rather than guessing them.
EPC1441LC20N - 440Kb OTP Config PROM, 20-PLCC | Intel/Altera
The Intel EPC1441LC20N is an OTP (One-Time Programmable) configuration PROM designed to configure SRAM-based Altera FPGAs at power-up, providing 440 Kb of non-volatile configuration storage in a 20-pin PLCC (J-lead, 9x9 mm) package. The part operates at up to 8 MHz configuration clock and supports JTAG-based in-system programming, making it a turnkey solution for ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, APEX II, Arria GX, Cyclone, Cyclone II, FLEX 10K, FLEX 6000, Mercury, Stratix, Stratix GX, Stratix II, and Stratix II GX device families. Background knowledge: An FPGA configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device that stores the bitstream for SRAM-based FPGAs. Because SRAM configuration cells lose their contents when power is removed, every power-on requires a reload of the configuration bitstream from an external source. The configuration hierarchy in a programmable-logic design therefore sits below the FPGA in the system architecture: bitstream source -> configuration PROM -> FPGA logic fabric -> user I/O. EPC1-series PROMs belong to this class of serial-configuration memory, predating the higher-density EPCS and EPCQ flash-based successors that replaced them in modern designs. Key features of the EPC1441LC20N include a 440 Kb storage capacity (sufficient for compact bitstreams such as those used by ACEX 1K and small Cyclone devices), an 8 MHz maximum configuration clock rate, an industry-standard 4-pin serial interface (nCS, DCLK, DATA, nINIT_CONF), and integrated JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) support for in-system programming. The 20-pin PLCC package is socket-compatible with earlier EPC1 family members, allowing reuse of legacy board layouts. Technical depth: Internally the EPC1441LC20N uses a one-time-programmable EPROM cell array organized as 55 K x 8 bits and clocked through a serial state machine that walks the FPGA through its configuration sequence after power-up reset. The nINIT_CONF open-drain pin can be wire-OR'd with the FPGA's nCONFIG to chain multiple configuration sources; the nCS line enables cascading of additional PROMs when larger bitstreams are required. Typical applications include legacy industrial controllers using ACEX 1K or FLEX 10K FPGAs, telecommunications line cards built on APEX 20K, video processing engines based on Cyclone I, and test fixtures that emulate a known-good bitstream for production programming of downstream PROMs. The 20-PLCC socket footprint also supports hand-rework in low-volume production. When designing with the EPC1441LC20N, observe the nCONFIG / nSTATUS handshake timing in the datasheet and provide a pull-up on nINIT_CONF. Because the device is OTP, pre-verified bitstreams must be loaded with the Altera Programming Unit or a compatible JTAG programmer before board installation; field updates are not possible.
EPC1441LI20 - 440kb OTP Configuration PROM for FPGAs | Intel
The Intel EPC1441LI20 is a 440-kilobit one-time-programmable (OTP) configuration PROM designed to load configuration bitstreams into SRAM-based Altera/Intel FPGAs at power-up. Packaged in a 20-pin PLCC (J-lead, 9x9 mm body), the device stores a single bitstream and serially configures ACEX, APEX (20K, 20KC, 20KE), FLEX 10KE, FLEX 10KA, and Mercury device families through a simple 4-pin interface (DATA, DCLK, nCONFIG, nSTATUS). Supply voltage is 3.3 V and the device operates over the industrial -40 C to +85 C temperature range, making it suitable for production FPGA designs across industrial and embedded platforms. What is a configuration PROM? A configuration PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a non-volatile memory device used exclusively to store the FPGA's configuration bitstream. Because SRAM-based FPGAs lose their configuration when power is removed, they must reload their bitstream from an external non-volatile source at every power-up. The configuration PROM hierarchy sits below non-volatile memory and above discrete boot storage; in modern systems this role is increasingly served by SPI flash, but dedicated PROMs remain in use for legacy and industrial designs. EPC PROMs belong to Altera's (now Intel) classic configuration-memory family and were the standard boot device for 1990s-2000s era FPGAs. Key features include 440,800 bits of storage (enough for the largest ACEX 1K and APEX 20K bitstreams), a simple serial interface, and 3.3 V single-supply operation. Unlike modern SPI flash devices, the EPC1441 uses Altera's proprietary 4-pin serial configuration protocol, so it cannot be replaced by a generic SPI flash without reworking the FPGA firmware. The PLCC-20 package is a J-lead ceramic/plastic surface-mount style, 9x9 mm with 1.27 mm pin pitch, rated to MSL-3. Typical applications include legacy industrial controllers, factory-automation retrofits, military/aerospace systems with long lifecycle support requirements, and any design using ACEX, APEX 20K, FLEX 10KE, FLEX 10KA, or Mercury FPGAs that still relies on a dedicated configuration PROM. Designers often keep the EPC1441 on the BOM for designs that were originally prototyped in the late 1990s or early 2000s, when changing the boot memory would invalidate the FPGA pinout and timing closure. Design considerations: the EPC1441 outputs one bit per DCLK rising edge; the host FPGA drives DCLK and reads DATA on the following edge. The nSTATUS open-drain pin signals configuration errors and must be pulled high with a 4.7-10 kohm resistor. Because the part is OTP (programmed once via Altera programming hardware), design changes require a new PROM and rework. For new designs targeting modern Intel/Altera FPGAs (Cyclone, Arria, Stratix), engineers should evaluate EPCQ-A or EPCQ-L serial configuration flash instead. This page consolidates distributor pricing, drop-in alternative MPNs, and practical PCB layout notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet to support sourcing and second-source decisions.
EPC1441LI20N - 440kb OTP Config PROM, 20-PLCC | Altera (Intel)
The Altera (Intel) EPC1441LI20N is a 440-kbit serial one-time-programmable (OTP) Configuration EPROM designed to load configuration data into Altera SRAM-based FPGAs. Housed in a 20-pin PLCC (9x9 mm) package with a 3.3V supply voltage, it uses a simple 4-pin serial interface (nSTATUS, nCONFIG, DCLK, DATA) to stream configuration bitstreams to target FPGAs at power-up or whenever the system requires fresh configuration data. A Configuration PROM (or Config PROM) is a non-volatile serial memory used to bootstrap volatile SRAM-based FPGAs. Because SRAM FPGAs lose their logic configuration when power is removed, they must be re-loaded on every cold start. The EPC1441LI20N performs this role by holding the FPGA bitstream in OTP memory and clocking it out to the FPGA's dedicated configuration port during the FPGA's POR sequence. This device sits hierarchically under Memory ICs -> EEPROM/PROM and supports the broader system chain of FPGA configuration memory -> boot loader -> programmable logic -> digital system. Key features include a 440,800-bit storage density, a single-bit serial data word, an industrial operating temperature range, and compatibility with the Altera EPC programming hardware for board-level pre-programming. The PLCC-20 J-lead package supports through-hole or socketed mounting, simplifying prototyping and field replacement compared to fine-pitch QFN packages. The EPC1441LI20N is qualified to configure ACEX 1K, APEX 20K (including 20KC/20KE), FLEX 10K (including 10KE/10KA), and Mercury device families per the Altera datasheet. The 'N' suffix denotes an industrial temperature grade and the 'LI20' code identifies the 20-pin PLCC package variant. Although newer Cyclone and Stratix families use different configuration schemes, the EPC1441 remains a stockable service part for legacy Altera FPGA boards across telecom, industrial, and military/aerospace systems. Typical applications include legacy telecom line-card boot configuration, industrial PLC FPGA subsystems, military/aerospace SRAM-FPGA boards, and test fixtures that retain older Altera FPGAs. The OTP nature means each PROM can be programmed exactly once, suiting production volumes rather than in-field updates. Design consideration: when laying out, route the 4 configuration pins (DCLK, DATA, nCONFIG, nSTATUS) as a short, impedance-matched group; long traces can corrupt the bitstream. Because the part is OTP, provision a programming header compatible with the Altera Programming Unit (APU) on prototypes. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in Altera-family alternatives, and practical configuration design notes not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet, supporting engineers maintaining or repairing long-lifecycle Altera FPGA systems.
EPC1441PC8 - 440Kb OTP FPGA Config PROM | 8-PDIP | Altera
The Altera EPC1441PC8 is a one-time-programmable (OTP) configuration PROM that stores 440 kilobits of SRAM-based FPGA configuration data in an 8-pin PDIP through-hole package. It targets legacy Altera FPGA families including FLEX 8000, FLEX 10K, APEX 20K, and Mercury, where deterministic cold-boot configuration must be sourced from non-volatile memory on every power-up. The device uses a simple serial interface clocked at up to 8 MHz, allowing full configuration of mid-density FPGAs in tens of milliseconds. A configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device that contains the bitstream an SRAM-based FPGA must receive at every power-up or reconfiguration event. Because SRAM cells lose their state when power is removed, an external boot memory is mandatory. Configuration PROMs sit beneath FPGAs in the boot memory hierarchy: bitstream -> configuration PROM -> SRAM-based FPGA -> loaded logic design. Enhanced configuration devices like the EPC1441 integrate both the configuration controller and the flash array in a single package, simplifying board layout versus discrete flash plus controller solutions. Key features include 440 Kbit storage (approximately 55 Kbytes), an 8 MHz maximum serial configuration clock, 3.3 V typical operating supply, industrial temperature range support, and Altera's enhanced configuration protocol compatible with FLEX, APEX, and Mercury device families. The 8-pin PDIP package offers easy through-hole assembly and user-friendly pinout for prototype, legacy, and maintenance applications. The internal architecture divides the die into a configuration controller and a flash memory array. The controller handles serial interface timing, device addressing, and FPGA handshaking using the Altera-specific configuration protocol. The flash array stores the user bitstream; on FPGA nSTATUS/nCONFIG assertion, the PROM serially shifts data to the FPGA's DATA0/DCLK pins. This single-device approach eliminates external controllers and reduces BOM cost. Typical applications include Altera FLEX 8000 boot memory, FLEX 10K / APEX 20K configuration storage, legacy industrial control boards, factory automation retrofits, and military/aerospace systems requiring OTP-only storage to prevent bitstream modification. The PDIP package is especially valuable for maintenance of legacy systems where surface-mount replacements are impractical. Designers should verify that the 440 Kbit capacity is sufficient for their target FPGA - the part is sized for mid-density FLEX 10K devices; high-density APEX 20K designs may require multiple devices or larger EPC16/EPC8 PROMs. The OTP nature means the device cannot be reprogrammed - engineering samples require new parts for each iteration.
EPC1441PI8 - 440kb OTP Configuration PROM for FPGAs | Intel
The Intel EPC1441PI8 is a 440-kilobit one-time-programmable (OTP) configuration PROM in an 8-pin PDIP package, designed to configure SRAM-based Altera/Intel FPGA families including APEX II, APEX 20K (20K/20KC/20KE), Mercury, ACEX 1K, FLEX 6000, FLEX 10KE, and FLEX 10KA. It uses a simple 4-pin serial interface (nSTATUS, nCONFIG, DCLK, DATA0) and operates from a single 5.0 V supply. A configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device whose purpose is to store the FPGA bitstream and stream it into the FPGA at power-up or after a reconfiguration event. Within the broader hierarchy, configuration PROMs sit beside boot flash memories in the FPGA configuration-memory taxonomy: configuration PROM -> non-volatile memory -> memory IC -> semiconductor. Engineers select OTP PROMs when the bitstream is finalized and cost-sensitive, reserving in-system programmable flash for designs that require remote field updates. Key features of the EPC1441PI8 include 440,800 bits of storage (sufficient for the largest supported FPGA bitstreams), a 5.0 V single-supply interface, and support for cascaded multi-device configuration chains via the nCASC output. The device supports simple serial configuration with an industry-standard 4-wire protocol and provides cascading for larger or multi-FPGA designs. Programmability is achieved through a dedicated programmer such as the Altera Logic Programmer (PL-PCSPN08) or compatible third-party tools, after which the device retains the bitstream for the lifetime of the product. Architecturally, the EPC1441PI8 implements an internal oscillator that derives DCLK and a state machine that controls the serial data stream. Because configuration is one-time only, the device does not require any external programming voltage rail - this simplifies board design compared to UV-erasable PROMs. The 8-pin PDIP form factor also makes it easy to socket for prototype rework, which is useful in laboratory and small-volume production environments. Typical applications include configuring legacy Altera APEX 20K and FLEX 10K design boards, industrial control systems with fixed logic, factory automation equipment, telecommunications line cards, and test-and-measurement fixtures. The wide compatibility list makes the EPC1441PI8 a common single-source configuration device for many older Altera reference designs. When designing with the EPC1441PI8, ensure that the nCONFIG/nSTATUS/DCLK/DATA0 traces are length-matched and routed away from switching power lines to avoid configuration failures during power-up. The 5.0 V supply must be stable before configuration begins; designers typically add a small RC delay or supervisor to guarantee FPGA VCCINT is valid first. Because the device is OTP, any bitstream change requires physical device replacement or a socketed layout. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet. Engineers can quickly evaluate same-brand and cross-brand pin-compatible substitutes, application suitability, and procurement options in a single reference.
EPC1441PI8N - 440Kb OTP Config PROM, 8-PDIP | Altera / Intel
The Altera EPC1441PI8N is a 440-Kbit one-time-programmable (OTP) configuration memory device supplied in an 8-pin PDIP through-hole package, designed to store the configuration bitstream of legacy SRAM-based Altera FLEX/APEX FPGAs. It provides 440,800 bits of non-volatile storage and is part of the EPC1441 family of configuration PROMs that boot an FPGA at power-up through a serial configuration interface. A configuration PROM is a specialized non-volatile memory device whose sole purpose is to hold the FPGA's configuration bitstream so the FPGA can self-load after power-up. Unlike a generic EEPROM or Flash, a configuration PROM implements a vendor-specific serial protocol (in Altera's case the PS, FPP, or passive serial interface) and is sized in bits, not bytes, to match the target FPGA's bitstream length. EPC1441 sits at the top of the EPC1441/EPC1213/EPC1064 family, offering the largest density to support FLEX10KA and APEX20K family devices, while EPC1213 (212Kb) and EPC1064 (65Kb) serve smaller FPGAs in the same generation. Key features include 440,800-bit storage capacity, single 5.0V supply operation (VCC = 5.0V nominal, compatible with 5V-tolerant FPGA configuration pins), a low-power CMOS standby mode with ICCSTBY of approximately 50 uA, and an industrial operating temperature range of -40C to +85C. The OTP cell is programmed via a standard PROM programmer before PCB assembly; once programmed, the device powers up the FPGA in <100 ms through the Altera serial configuration chain. The 8-pin PDIP package is pin-compatible with the EPC2 and EPC1 upgrade paths. Architecturally, EPC1441PI8N uses a poly-fuse OTP array organized as a long serial shift register clocked by DCLK from the FPGA. The FPGA drives nCONFIG low-to-high at power-up, the PROM presents its first bit on DATA, and the FPGA clocks DCLK to shift the bitstream in. When configuration completes, the PROM enters standby to minimize system power draw, an important consideration in power-sensitive designs. Typical applications include legacy FLEX10K, FLEX10KA, FLEX6000, and APEX20K FPGA configuration memory in industrial control systems, telecommunications infrastructure, and test-and-measurement equipment. The 8-PDIP package is preferred for through-hole retrofits, prototype boards, and legacy replacements where SMD-only EPC1441LC20 or EPC1441PC8 variants are not drop-in. When designing with this device, note that the OTP cell must be programmed on a standalone programmer prior to PCB mounting because in-system programming is not supported. For new designs targeting modern Intel/Altera Cyclone or MAX series FPGAs, consider serial Flash-based configuration (EPCS or EPCQ devices) instead of legacy PROMs.
EPC1441PI8W - 440kb OTP Configuration PROM for FPGAs | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPC1441PI8W is a 440 Kbit one-time-programmable (OTP) serial configuration PROM designed to load the configuration bitstream into SRAM-based FPGAs from the APEX II, APEX 20K, APEX 20KC, APEX 20KE, Mercury, ACEX 1K, FLEX 6000, FLEX 10KE, and FLEX 10KA device families. It is housed in an 8-pin PDIP through-hole package and operates from a single 3.3 V supply. A configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device that stores the FPGA's bitstream and serially shifts it into the FPGA at power-up through a four-pin interface (nSTATUS, nCONFIG, DCLK, and DATA0). This eliminates the need for a separate boot ROM or microcontroller bootloader, simplifying board bring-up and shortening time-to-market for programmable logic designs. The EPC1441 family is positioned in the OTP PROM hierarchy above smaller EPC1064/EPC1213 devices and below larger EPC2/EPC4/EPC8/EPC16 in-system-programmable alternatives. Key features include a 4-pin serial configuration interface, 440 Kbit user-programmable storage, low-power CMOS process, industrial operating temperature range, and simple read-only behavior after programming. The OTP architecture means each device can be programmed exactly once, which is well-suited to production FPGA designs where the bitstream is finalized. The W suffix denotes tape-and-reel packaging for high-volume assembly. Typical applications include factory programming of ACEX 1K and FLEX 10K development boards, APEX 20K series carrier cards, embedded prototyping platforms using legacy Altera FPGAs, and industrial controllers with Mercury FPGAs. The DIP-8 form factor remains popular in through-hole education and hobbyist projects where socketed programming is convenient. Engineering note: the W suffix variant differs from EPC1441PI8N only in packaging orientation and is fully electrically identical.
EPC1441PS8 - 440Kb Altera Enhanced Configuration PROM | Intel (Altera)
The Altera (now Intel) EPC1441PS8 is an enhanced configuration device (EPC1441) in an 8-pin SOIC (PS8 / 150-mil) package, providing 440 kilobits of one-time-programmable flash storage used to configure Altera SRAM-based FPGAs such as APEX II, APEX 20K (including APEX 20K, 20KC, 20KE), Mercury, ACEX 1K, FLEX 6000, FLEX 10KE, and FLEX 10KA devices. According to the original Altera datasheet excerpt, the core of an enhanced configuration device is divided into two major blocks: a configuration controller and a flash memory array. The configuration controller drives the FPGA serial DATA, DCLK, and nSTATUS/nCONFIG handshake, while the flash memory stores the FPGA bitstream. An EPC (Enhanced Configuration) PROM is a serial configuration memory designed to load the configuration bitstream of an SRAM-based FPGA at power-up. Because SRAM FPGAs lose their configuration when power is removed, they require an external non-volatile boot memory. EPC PROMs sit in the FPGA boot chain alongside the system controller and supply the bitstream through a 4-pin interface: nCS, OE, DATA, and DCLK. They belong to the broader taxonomy: configuration PROM -> non-volatile memory -> memory IC -> integrated circuit. Key features of the EPC1441PS8 include a 4-pin serial configuration interface that is electrically compatible with all Altera FLEX, ACEX, APEX, and Mercury FPGA families. It provides a built-in address counter and internal oscillator, so the host MCU or FPGA only has to enable the chip via nCS and OE to start streaming the bitstream. Tri-state DATA output allows multiple devices to share the configuration bus. The PS8 (SOIC-8) package is the smallest Altera enhanced-configuration option and fits easily on compact daughter cards. Compared to older non-enhanced EPC PROMs, the EPC1441 supports faster DCLK rates and the new error-handling handshake for APEX II and Mercury devices. The architecture combines a flash array with a hard-wired configuration controller that performs nCS/OE gating, address sequencing, and parallel-to-serial conversion. The internal oscillator generates the DCLK stream during configuration, freeing the FPGA from driving the clock. Flash cells store the bitstream with one-time programmability, suitable for production volumes where reconfiguration in the field is not required. Typical applications include configuring an APEX 20K200, FLEX 10K50, or Mercury EP1M350 on a system board at power-up, production JTAG-less FPGA boot, and embedded designs where a compact SOIC-8 boot memory is preferred over a larger PLCC package. The device is also used as a primary boot source when the system MCU hosts the bitstream image. When designing with the EPC1441PS8, ensure the SOIC-8 (PS8) footprint is laid out for 150-mil body width and that the nCS/OE lines are properly sequenced to the FPGA nCONFIG/nSTATUS handshake. Use 3.3V supply and respect the operating-requirements DC input limits (undershoot to -2.0 V, overshoot to 7.0 V, periods < 20 ns) specified in the original Altera data book. The EPC1441 is OTP - verify the bitstream before programming. This page synthesizes current distributor pricing, same-brand (Altera/Intel) drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the bare manufacturer datasheet.
EPC1441T32 - 440kb OTP Configuration PROM, 32-TQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EPC1441T32 is a one-time programmable (OTP) configuration PROM in a 32-pin TQFP (7x7 mm) package, designed to store and stream configuration bitstreams to high-density Altera FPGAs. The device holds 440 kb of configuration memory and uses a simple 4-pin serial interface (nSTATUS, nCONFIG, DCLK, DATA0) to program target FPGAs in the ACEX 1K, APEX II, APEX 20K, APEX 20KC, APEX 20KE, Mercury, FLEX 6000, FLEX 10KE, and FLEX 10KA device families. EPC1441T32 is the tape-and-reel TQFP variant of the broader EPC1441 family. An FPGA configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device that holds the FPGA's bitstream and loads it at power-up through a dedicated serial configuration bus. Configuration PROMs sit at the bottom of the FPGA-boot memory hierarchy: external flash > configuration PROM > FPGA SRAM configuration cells. They are critical for deterministic, low-pin-count FPGA bring-up in production systems where JTAG or processor-driven configuration is impractical. Key features of the EPC1441T32 include 440 kb of OTP storage, a 4-pin interface, built-in voltage compatibility with both 3.3 V and 5.0 V FPGA configuration banks, and industrial operating-temperature support on selected variants. The device uses an internal oscillator so no external clock source is required on the PCB, simplifying layout. The 32-pin TQFP package supports surface-mount assembly with hand-solderable leads and is well suited to mid-density FPGA reference designs and legacy FLEX 10K / APEX 20K boards. Typical applications include legacy Altera FPGA configuration memory, factory programming stations for FLEX 10K and APEX 20K reference designs, and board-level bring-up of ACEX 1K and Mercury designs. The device is also commonly retained as a configuration source on long-lifecycle industrial controllers and test fixtures where redesigning away from FLEX 10K FPGAs is undesirable.
EPC1441TC-32 - 440kb OTP Configuration PROM | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EPC1441TC-32 is a 440 kb One-Time-Programmable (OTP) configuration PROM designed to configure high-density SRAM-based FPGAs including APEX II, APEX 20K, APEX 20KC, APEX 20KE, Mercury, ACEX 1K, FLEX 6000, FLEX 10KE, and FLEX 10KA device families. Housed in a 32-pin TQFP (7x7 mm) package, this enhanced configuration device combines a flash-based configuration controller with non-volatile memory in a single die, eliminating the need for separate controller logic on the board. What is a Configuration PROM? A configuration PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a non-volatile memory device used to store the bitstream that loads into an SRAM-based FPGA at power-up. Because SRAM FPGAs lose their configuration when power is removed, an external boot memory such as the EPC1441 is required to reload the device on each power cycle. The EPC1441 family is specifically the "enhanced configuration device" line from Altera (now Intel), targeting high-density FPGAs that exceed the bitstream size of simpler serial configuration EPROMs (EPC1, EPC2). These devices sit in the boot-memory hierarchy: PROM -> FPGA configuration interface -> FPGA SRAM cells. Key features include 440 kb storage density (sufficient for the largest APEX and Mercury device bitstreams), a simple 4-pin serial interface to the target FPGA (DATA, DCLK, nCS, nINIT_CONF), 3.3 V or 5 V supply operation, in-system programmability via JTAG, and support for cascading multiple devices to configure FPGAs requiring bitstreams larger than 440 kb. The internal flash-based controller handles the serial configuration handshake autonomously after power-up, freeing the FPGA companion device from any host-CPU involvement during boot. The architecture splits the die into two major functional blocks: a configuration controller implementing the Altera serial configuration protocol, and a flash memory array holding the configuration bitstream. This integration yields a single-device, high-speed configuration solution with no external glue logic, simplifying PCB layout for legacy Altera FPGA designs in industrial, telecom, and test equipment. Typical applications include APEX II, APEX 20K, Mercury, ACEX 1K, and FLEX 10K series FPGA boot memory in industrial controllers, telecom line cards, and legacy test-and-measurement platforms where the original configuration chain must be preserved during repair or refurbishment. When designing with the EPC1441, note that the part is OTP — the configuration bitstream can be loaded once and locked. For designs requiring re-programmability or field upgrades, an EPC2 or EPC4 (re-programmable enhanced configuration device) should be substituted. This page synthesizes distributor stock data, drop-in alternatives from the Altera / Intel enhanced configuration device family, and practical design notes not aggregated on the manufacturer product page.
EPC1441TC32 - 440Kb OTP FPGA Config PROM | Altera | 32-TQFP
The Altera EPC1441TC32 is a 440-Kbit one-time-programmable (OTP) enhanced configuration device that stores configuration bitstreams for SRAM-based Altera/Intel FPGAs in a 32-pin Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP) package measuring 7 mm x 7 mm. It is part of the EPC1441 family of configuration PROMs, designed as a single-device, high-speed, advanced configuration solution for very high-density FPGAs. What is a configuration PROM? A configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device that stores FPGA bitstream data and serializes it to the target FPGA at power-up via a dedicated configuration interface (typically Altera's passive serial, fast passive parallel, or passive parallel asynchronous schemes). Because SRAM-based FPGAs lose their configuration when power is removed, a configuration PROM provides the boot image that the FPGA loads on every power-up, sitting between system power and the FPGA's CONF_DONE/nCONFIG pins. Configuration PROMs sit inside the hierarchy: PROM -> non-volatile memory -> memory IC -> integrated circuit -> semiconductor. Key features of the EPC1441TC32 include a 440-Kbit (55,000 byte) flash-based storage core, a 16.7 MHz internal oscillator that supports the FPGA configuration clock domain, and 5.0 V / 3.3 V in-system programmability (ISP) through the built-in IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface. The device supports daisy-chain configuration of multiple FPGAs and is compatible with ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, APEX II, Arria GX, Cyclone, Cyclone II, FLEX 10K, FLEX 6000, Mercury, Stratix, Stratix GX, Stratix II, and Stratix II GX device families. The internal architecture is divided into two major blocks: a configuration controller and the flash memory array. The controller handles the JTAG ISP, the serial configuration clock generation, and the FPGA handshaking via nSTATUS, nCONFIG, and CONF_DONE signals. The flash memory stores the compressed or uncompressed bitstream; the controller reads it out sequentially on FPGA request. The EPC1441 family uses page-mode programming to accelerate ISP, reducing factory programming time compared with byte-mode legacy EPC devices. Typical applications include boot-configuration storage for industrial PLC FPGA controller boards, telecommunications line-card FPGAs, military/aerospace single-board computers using Stratix or APEX devices, and legacy industrial systems requiring long-life-cycle OTP memory. The OTP nature makes the device well suited to designs where the bitstream is finalized at production and never requires field update. When designing with the EPC1441TC32, observe JTAG chain ordering when the FPGA shares the JTAG bus - the PROM must appear in the expected BSDL scan position. Decouple VCC with a 0.1 uF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the package pin, and respect the 5 V / 3.3 V I/O tolerance when interfacing to a 2.5 V or 1.8 V FPGA bank. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EPC1441TC32N - 440kb OTP Configuration PROM | Altera TQFP-32
The Altera EPC1441TC32N is a 440,800-bit one-time-programmable (OTP) serial Configuration PROM designed to load configuration bitstreams into SRAM-based Altera LUT devices such as ACEX 1K, APEX 20K (including 20K, 20KC, 20KE), APEX II, Mercury, FLEX 6000, FLEX 10KE, and FLEX 10KA. The device is housed in a 32-pin TQFP (7x7 mm) surface-mount package and operates from a 3.0 V to 3.6 V (3.3 V nominal) supply per the manufacturer datasheet. A configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device used at board power-up to deliver FPGA bitstream data through a simple serial interface, eliminating the need for parallel boot PROMs or microcontroller bootloaders. EPC1441TC32N belongs to Altera's enhanced configuration device family (EPC1441), which uses a compact 4-pin interface (DATA, DCLK, nCS, OE) and supports daisy-chaining of multiple PROMs for larger bitstreams. The 440,800 x 1 organization is sufficient for mid-density FPGAs and is engineered for synchronous serial data transfer. Key features include a 16.7 MHz maximum DCLK frequency, 5.0 V tolerant I/O on legacy variants, low standby current of approximately 30 uA, and JTAG-friendly boundary-scan support. The device is programmed once at board manufacture and is intended for production environments where field upgrades are not required. The TQFP-32 7x7 mm package provides a low-profile, surface-mountable footprint compatible with hand-soldering and reflow. EPC1441TC32N is internally organized as 440,800 bits x 1 with 8-pin interface logic for autonomous FPGA configuration at reset. Its architecture uses Altera's proprietary serial protocol that simplifies board layout by reducing configuration pin count to four, allowing compact routing on multi-FPGA boards. Typical applications include configuring ACEX 1K and APEX 20K FPGAs in industrial control boards, telecom line cards, and legacy Altera-based prototyping platforms. The 440 kb capacity matches the bitstream size of mid-density APEX 20K devices. Designers should ensure the target FPGA is in the supported device list before selection. When designing with EPC1441TC32N, observe the 3.3 V VCC requirement and route the 4-wire serial bus with matched trace lengths to minimize skew on DCLK and DATA. For board-level configuration, OE and nCS must be driven by the FPGA's configuration controller, not by an external MCU.
EPC1441TI32 - 440kb OTP Config PROM for FPGAs | Altera
The Altera EPC1441TI32 is an OTP (One-Time Programmable) serial configuration PROM designed to store and load configuration data for SRAM-based Altera/Intel FPGAs. It provides 440,800 x 1-bit (approximately 440 kb) of non-volatile storage in a 32-pin TQFP (7 x 7 mm) package with 5.0 V operation and industrial temperature grade. The device is part of Altera's EPC series configuration memory family used to bootstrap LUT-based FPGA devices at power-up. An FPGA configuration PROM is a specialized serial memory that holds the FPGA's bitstream. SRAM-based FPGAs (such as Altera ACEX 1K, APEX, Cyclone, Cyclone II, Stratix, Stratix II, and FLEX families) lose their configuration when power is removed, so they require an external non-volatile boot source. The EPC1441TI32 answers this need with a low-pin-count serial interface, factory or user-programmable OTP cells, and automatic cascade support for multi-device configuration chains. Key features include a 90 ns access time (approximately 10 MHz flash read bandwidth), 5.0 V single-supply operation, industrial operating temperature range, and a serial data interface that streams the configuration bitstream to the FPGA's MSEL/AS configuration pins. The device supports Altera's Active Serial (AS) configuration mode and provides automatic cascading when multiple PROMs are required for larger FPGA bitstreams. Technically, the EPC1441TI32 uses CMOS process technology with one-time-programmable flash cells, exposing only DATA, DCLK, nCS, nCASC, OE, and RESET pins to the FPGA. The 16-bit flash data bus DQ[] at 10 MHz yields roughly 160 Mbps of configuration bandwidth, which is sufficient for most legacy Altera FPGA configuration needs but slower than modern Stratix FPP (Fast Passive Parallel) 100 MHz modes that require dedicated parallel PROMs. Typical applications include configuring legacy Altera ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, FLEX 10K, Cyclone, Cyclone II, Stratix, Stratix II, Mercury, and Arria GX FPGAs in industrial, telecom, and embedded systems. The wide industrial temperature range makes it suitable for factory automation, test equipment, and ruggedized embedded platforms. When designing with this device, ensure the FPGA's MSEL pins are strapped to select Active Serial (AS) configuration mode, and verify that the EPC1441TI32's 440 kb capacity exceeds the target FPGA's compressed bitstream size. For larger designs, multiple EPC PROMs can be cascaded using the nCASC pin. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in Altera/Intel alternatives, configuration pinout details, and practical design guidance not found in the standalone datasheet, helping engineers shorten the FPGA boot-circuit design cycle.
EPC1441TI32N - 440Kb FPGA Config PROM, 32-TQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EPC1441TI32N is a 440-kilobit one-time-programmable (OTP) serial configuration memory designed to store the configuration bitstream of SRAM-based FPGAs such as ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, APEX II, Arria GX, Cyclone, Cyclone II, FLEX 10K, FLEX 6000, Mercury, Stratix, Stratix GX, Stratix II, and Stratix II GX. The device is housed in a 32-pin Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP-32, 7x7 mm) and operates from a single 3.3 V supply, with in-system programmability supported at both 5 V and 3.3 V through the built-in IEEE 1149.1 (JTAG) interface. A serial configuration PROM (also called a configuration device) is a non-volatile memory that holds the FPGA's configuration bitstream. Because SRAM-based LUT devices lose their configuration every time they lose power, a configuration PROM re-loads the bitstream at power-up via a serial interface. Within the broader taxonomy, the EPC1441TI32N belongs to: configuration PROM -> serial configuration memory -> non-volatile memory -> memory IC -> semiconductor. It is the master boot source for the FPGA in standalone (non-processor-driven) designs. Key specifications include a memory density of 440,800 bits (one bit per word, 440,800 words), a 3.3 V supply voltage, a serial data rate of up to 10 MHz (Mouser listing shows 8 MHz), and an industrial operating temperature grade. The OTP cell array is programmed through the JTAG IEEE 1149.1 interface and the configuration data is clocked out serially to the target FPGA on power-up using Altera's proprietary serial configuration protocol (not generic SPI). The EPC1441TI32N uses a simple state-machine-based controller with a 4-pin serial configuration interface (nCS, DCLK, DATA, nCONFIG/nSTATUS) rather than a full SPI core. This minimal pin count allows the device to share its JTAG chain with other Altera configuration devices and with the FPGA itself, enabling in-system re-programming of the entire chain through a single JTAG header. The architecture is intentionally low-cost and one-time-programmable: each bit cell is written only once via anti-fuse or fuse-link programming. Typical applications include boot configuration for Altera/Intel Cyclone-series FPGAs in industrial controllers, factory automation modules, telecom line cards, and any design that uses an SRAM-based FPGA without an external processor or flash to load its bitstream. The TQFP-32 package is hand-solderable and breadboard-friendly, making the EPC1441TI32N common in prototype and low-volume production. The industrial temperature grade (-40C to +85C typical for this family) allows deployment in uncontrolled-environment enclosures. When designing with this part, note that the EPC1441TI32N is a one-time-programmable device: a programming error permanently bricks the part. Designers should verify the bitstream on a Cyclone/Cyclone II board with a JTAG programmer before committing production units. The 10 MHz (or 8 MHz per Mouser) serial clock is compatible with all Altera passive-serial mode FPGAs but is NOT a generic SPI memory; it cannot directly replace a 25Q-series SPI flash in a non-Altera design. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative part numbers (EPC1441TI32, EPC1441TC32N, EPC1441PC8, etc.), and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EPC144ICC20 - Altera 440kb Config EPROM, 20-Pin TSSOP | Intel FPGA
The Altera EPC144ICC20 is a 440,800-bit (433,008-bit usable) ultraviolet-erasable programmable read-only memory (UV EPROM) configuration device designed to load the configuration bitstream of Altera FLEX, APEX, and ACEX series FPGAs at system power-up. It is supplied in a 20-pin thin shrink small outline package (TSSOP-20) with industrial temperature grade, and supports 3.3V or 5.0V supply operation. A configuration EPROM is a non-volatile memory device that stores the FPGA's SRAM-based configuration bitstream. Because SRAM-based FPGAs (such as the Altera FLEX 10K, APEX 20K, and ACEX 1K families) lose their configuration when power is removed, an external boot memory is required to reload the device on every power-up. The EPC144ICC20 belongs to the EPC1/EPC2/EPC1441 family of configuration PROMs that interface to the FPGA through Altera's proprietary serial or parallel configuration bus (DATA, DCLK, nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE). It also includes an optional JTAG port for in-system programming and verification. Key features include 440,800 bits of storage (organized as a serial bitstream with built-in bit-stuffing CRC), 3.3V or 5.0V single-supply operation, cascadable support for multi-FPGAs or larger bitstreams, and compatibility with Altera Quartus II programmer software. The TSSOP-20 package reduces board space compared to the older DIP-20 ceramic-windowed package while maintaining a small-footprint, surface-mount assembly flow. The EPC144ICC20 is a one-time-programmable variant in the EPC1441 family (the ICC20 suffix indicates the industrial-temperature ceramic or TSSOP package). It is pin-compatible with the older EPC1441LC20 and EPC1441LI20 in the 20-pin SOIC/TSSOP family, and is electrically compatible with the 3.3V logic levels used by the APEX 20K and ACEX 1K families. Typical applications include loading FLEX 10K, APEX 20K, and ACEX 1K FPGA bitstreams, multi-FPGA configuration in cascaded chains, factory-programmed configuration for volume production, and embedded prototypes using legacy Altera CPLD/FPGA silicon. Designers should select this part when the target FPGA is older Altera silicon and the design can accept a one-time-programmable configuration store. When designing with this device, pay attention to the nCS, OE, and DCLK timing relative to the FPGA's configuration controller, and provide a clean 3.3V rail with a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor near the VCC pin. The JTAG chain must include the EPC144ICC20 between TDI and TDO of the FPGA so that in-system programming works correctly. This page synthesizes distributor availability, drop-in pin-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes that are not consolidated in any single manufacturer datasheet.
EPC144ILC-20 - 440kb OTP Configuration PROM | Altera | PLCC-20
The Altera (Intel) EPC144ILC-20 is a 440-kilobit one-time programmable (OTP) serial configuration PROM designed to configure Altera FPGAs such as the Cyclone, ACEX 1K, and APEX 20K families at system power-up. Housed in a 20-pin plastic leaded chip carrier (PLCC) package, the device stores FPGA configuration bitstreams and loads them over a serial interface compliant with Altera's proprietary configuration scheme. A configuration PROM (programmable read-only memory) is a non-volatile memory IC that retains FPGA configuration data when system power is removed. During board power-up the FPGA, operating in passive configuration mode, sources a configuration clock and reads the bitstream serially from the PROM. Unlike flash-based configuration devices, OTP PROMs are written only once (usually by Altera or a programming house) and cannot be re-programmed in-circuit, which lowers cost for production volumes where the bitstream is finalized. The EPC144 family represents Altera's second-generation configuration memory, replacing earlier EPC1/EPC2 devices with higher density and lower standby current. Key features include 440 Kb of storage capacity, a low-pin-count serial interface, 5.0 V single-supply operation, and CMOS standby current below 50 uA. The EPC144ILC-20 supports Altera's FPP (fast passive parallel) and PS (passive serial) configuration modes, and its JTAG-less simple interface minimizes board complexity in cost-sensitive applications. The architecture is based on an anti-fuse or fuse-link OTP cell array with on-chip address counter and serial shift register, allowing autonomous streaming of configuration data without external clock stretching. Programming is performed via Altera's dedicated programmer hardware; field re-programming is not supported, which is why EPC144 parts are typically ordered pre-programmed with customer bitstreams. Typical applications include Cyclone-series FPGA configuration memory, ACEX 1K starter boards, APEX 20K evaluation platforms, industrial control boards using Altera MAX 7000-series FPGAs, and legacy telecom line-card designs. The PLCC-20 package is through-hole-friendly and socketable, simplifying rework and field replacement. When designing with this device, ensure that the FPGA's configuration mode pins select passive serial mode (MSEL pins strapped appropriately) and that the PROM's nCS/nCE pin is tied to the FPGA's nCONFIG-driven chip-select logic. Designers should also verify that 440 Kb of storage is sufficient for the target FPGA; larger devices such as FPGAs with >30 K logic elements may require the EPC8 or EPC16 density steps. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative MPNs, and practical configuration design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet to help engineers select, source, and design in the EPC144ILC-20 confidently.
EPC144ILC20 - Altera 440kb Config EPROM, 20-PLCC
The Altera EPC144ILC20 is a 440,800-bit (54KB) ultraviolet-erasable CMOS Configuration EPROM designed to store configuration bitstreams for Altera Classic and MAX-series FPGAs (including EPF8282, EPF8452, EPF10K-series Classic devices) in a 20-pin Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC-20) package. It is factory pre-programmed with a single one-time-programmable (OTP) Altera configuration bitstream that is loaded into the target FPGA at every power-up through the Altera FLEX/MAX configuration controller interface, replacing the legacy discrete EPROM + microcontroller bootloader used in older CPLD/FPGA designs. A Configuration EPROM such as the EPC144ILC20 belongs to the broader programmable-logic memory family (PROM -> Configuration EPROM -> non-volatile configuration memory). Configuration EPROMs sit hierarchically above generic PROMs and below specialized boot-multiplexer/flash-loader devices, serving a single purpose: holding the FPGA bitstream in non-volatile memory and serially shifting it out on FLEX_DCLK / FLEX_DATA0 / nCONFIG / nSTATUS lines during FPGA initialization. The EPC144 family implements a fixed-voltage (5V) CMOS architecture with a synchronous serial interface defined by Altera's FLEX/MAX configuration specification. Key features of the EPC144ILC20 include 440,800-bit (54KB) storage organized as a serial bitstream, a 20-pin Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) package, 5V VCC operation, a JTAG-style serial daisy-chain mode that allows multiple EPC devices to program multiple FPGAs from a single chain, and CMOS low-power operation suitable for industrial 5V-tolerant I/O rails. The 20-pin PLCC footprint is a classic Altera configuration-device land pattern reused across the EPC1064, EPC1441, EPC1213 and EPC144 families. Architecturally, the EPC144ILC20 uses a one-time-programmable anti-fuse cell array combined with an internal address counter and serial shift register. The device enters configuration mode when its nCASC pin or nCS pin is asserted, then clocks out the bitstream LSB-first in response to rising DCLK edges from the FPGA. JTAG support is provided through dedicated TDI/TDO pins that allow ISP (in-system programming) of the bitstream image using the Altera ByteBlasterMV parallel-port cable or USB-Blaster. Typical applications include boot-configuration storage for Altera FLEX/MAX FPGAs in industrial controllers, multi-FPGA signal-processing boards that daisy-chain two or more configuration EPROMs, legacy telecommunication line-card designs where the EPC144ILC20 replaces an EPROM + uC bootloader, and 5V industrial PLC backplanes. It is also useful in long-lifecycle aerospace/defense retrofits that must remain on a 5V CMOS configuration architecture. Designers should note that the EPC144ILC20 is OTP, so the bitstream is committed at the time of programming and cannot be re-loaded. For designs that need re-programmability, choose EPC1441LC20 (flash-based, same PLCC-20 footprint) or EPC1213LC20 (smaller flash-based alternative). For multi-FPGA boards requiring more than 440 Kb per chain, daisy-chain additional EPC devices on the JTAG-style FLEX chain. This page synthesizes distributor availability, same-family Altera configuration-EPROM drop-in alternatives (including site-listed variants such as EPC1441LC20 and EPC1441LI20), and practical design notes for legacy FPGAs not consolidated on a single distributor product page.
EPC144IPC8 - 440Kbit Configuration EEPROM, 8-Pin PDIP | Intel
The Intel EPC144IPC8 is a 440,800-bit serial-configuration EEPROM designed to store FPGA configuration bitstreams for Altera (now Intel) CPLDs and older FPGAs. Housed in an 8-pin PDIP through-hole package, the EPC144IPC8 offers 8-pin DIP pin compatibility with the legacy Altera EPC1/EPC1441 family configuration memories used in classic MAX-series and FLEX-series device programming chains. It supports the dedicated Altera serial configuration protocol with an internal oscillator and is rated for 3.3V or 5V system operation. A configuration EEPROM (also called a configuration PROM) is a non-volatile serial memory that holds the bitstream of an FPGA or CPLD and loads it into the device at power-up through a dedicated configuration interface. In the broader component hierarchy, the EPC144IPC8 belongs to: configuration memory -> serial EEPROM -> non-volatile memory -> memory IC -> integrated circuit. Configuration PROMs are essential companions to FPGAs because they allow instant-on configuration without an external microprocessor or flash loader, and they eliminate the need for in-system programming of the FPGA each power cycle. Key features of the EPC144IPC8 include a 440 Kbit (440,800-bit) storage capacity sufficient for mid-density Altera FPGAs, a built-in internal oscillator that removes the need for an external clock source, dedicated serial interface pins (DATA, DCLK, nCS, nINIT_CONF, OE, RESET) conforming to the Altera EPC1/EPC1441 protocol, and 3.3V/5V tolerant I/O. The device enters a low-power standby state after configuration completes, making it suitable for power-sensitive designs. The EPC144IPC8 uses Altera's proprietary serial configuration protocol rather than SPI or I2C, so it cannot be replaced with a generic SPI EEPROM. It contains internal address-generation logic so the FPGA configuration controller simply clocks data out without managing read addresses, which simplifies the FPGA configuration state machine. The bit-width and timing are optimized for the older Altera configuration controller used in MAX 7000/9000 and early FLEX 10K-series devices. Typical applications include configuring legacy Altera MAX 7000 and MAX 9000 CPLDs, configuring FLEX 10K and APEX-series FPGAs, industrial controllers using classic Altera logic, retro-computing and avionics systems requiring long-life 5V logic, and as a long-term configuration backup for systems where newer flash-based configuration is not desired. The through-hole PDIP package also makes the EPC144IPC8 convenient for prototyping, lab fixtures, and educational kits. When designing with this device, note that the EPC144IPC8 is in the Altera legacy configuration PROM family. Designers should verify that the target FPGA is supported by the EPC1/EPC1441 family, because newer Altera/Intel FPGAs (Cyclone, Arria, Stratix) use different configuration schemes. The DIP-8 footprint makes it easy to socket for firmware updates and field replacement. According to Altera (now Intel) documentation, configuration EEPROMs of this family are recommended for designs where long-term availability and 5V tolerance outweigh the need for higher density.
EPC144LC-20 - Altera OTP Configuration PROM | 20-PLCC
The Intel / Altera EPC144LC-20 is an OTP (One-Time Programmable) configuration memory device from Altera's EPC144 family, designed to store FPGA configuration bitstreams for legacy Altera FPGA devices such as the EPF10K and FLEX series. Housed in a 20-pin PLCC (9x9 mm) package, this serial-configuration PROM provides non-volatile storage that loads the configuration data into a target Altera FPGA at power-up through the proprietary serial configuration interface. A Configuration PROM is a type of non-volatile serial memory used to bootstrap programmable logic devices. In the hierarchy of programming technologies, the EPC144 belongs to the OTP EPROM family, sitting below modern flash-based PROMs and above discrete bitstream storage solutions. It functions as a small, low-density serial ROM that interfaces with an FPGA's configuration controller, presenting itself as a peripheral device that delivers configuration frames on demand during the FPGA's multi-stage boot sequence. The EPC144 family represents Altera's second-generation configuration architecture that preceded the flash-based EPCS and EPCQ families. Key features of the EPC144LC-20 include 440,800 bits of OTP storage, a serial daisy-chain configuration interface, compatibility with FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, and ACEX 1K FPGA families, low-power CMOS process technology, and a 20-pin PLCC package with a J-lead footprint. The -20 speed grade denotes a 20 ns access time, suitable for configuration of Altera FPGAs operating at configuration clock frequencies up to approximately 50 MHz. The EPC144LC-20 uses a serial daisy-chain architecture allowing multiple PROMs to be cascaded for larger bitstreams. Programming is performed using the Altera Logic Programmer card or compatible third-party programmers via JTAG-like boundary-scan mechanisms. The device operates from a single 5V supply and offers standard CMOS input thresholds, making it directly compatible with 5V-tolerant FPGA configuration pins of legacy Altera devices. Typical applications include legacy industrial control systems, telecom infrastructure retrofits, and defense/aerospace systems where the original Altera FLEX 10K or ACEX 1K FPGA designs must be maintained. Engineers designing new products should consider migrating to flash-based EPCQ or serial configuration devices from modern vendors, as the EPC144 family is no longer in active production. When designing with the EPC144LC-20, ensure proper decoupling (0.1 uF ceramic capacitor near VCC) and verify that the FPGA's configuration mode pins select serial configuration mode. The OTP nature means that bitstreams cannot be erased or rewritten, so design verification must occur before programming. This page synthesizes distributor availability, drop-in configuration PROM alternatives, and practical design considerations not found in a single manufacturer document.