FPGA & CPLD
Produkte (6666)
EP1C12F256C8 - Cyclone FPGA, 12,060 LEs, 256-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12F256C8 is a Cyclone-family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) housed in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA) package, delivering 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins in a low-cost SRAM-based architecture. The part integrates up to two PLLs and supports configuration via passive serial, active serial, or JTAG modes. The device operates from a 1.5 V core with 3.3 V I/O support. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a class of programmable logic device whose logic fabric, interconnect, and I/O behaviour can be reconfigured after manufacture, making it the workhorse of digital prototyping, hardware acceleration, glue logic, and high-volume programmable SOC prototyping. Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, FPGAs sit alongside ASICs and CPLDs as the three major programmable-logic families; the Cyclone family is Altera's (now Intel FPGA's) low-cost, high-volume branch, optimized for price-sensitive designs where the highest-speed transceivers of Stratix are not required. Key features include 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM distributed across 52 M4K blocks (4,608 bits each plus 576 parity bits), 185 user I/O pins spread across multiple I/O banks, and two PLLs for clock synthesis and skew management. The 256-pin FBGA package supports surface-mount assembly, with the 'F' suffix denoting the FBGA ball pattern and the trailing 'C8' indicating the commercial 0 to 85°C temperature grade. The Cyclone architecture uses a four-input look-up table (LUT4) as the basic logic element, with embedded multiplier support and dedicated DDR SDRAM / FCRAM interface circuitry. Embedded RAM blocks support true dual-port, simple dual-port, and single-port modes with configurable aspect ratios, enabling efficient implementation of FIFOs, shift registers, and lookup-table based DSP functions. Typical applications include industrial control and machine vision, communications bridges, video processing pipelines, embedded processor prototyping, motor control and robotics, and consumer electronics requiring programmable logic. The Cyclone I family is especially common in education and legacy systems where a low-cost, widely-supported device is preferred over newer families. When designing with the EP1C12F256C8, ensure the Quartus II design software (web edition or subscription) supports the EP1C12 device variant and that the bank-voltage supply rails match the I/O standard selected for each bank. Decoupling and bank sequencing are critical - consult the Cyclone Device Handbook for bank-specific power requirements. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in pin-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C12F256C8N - Cyclone FPGA, 12,060 LEs, 256-BGA | Intel/Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12F256C8N is a member of the first-generation Cyclone family of field-programmable gate arrays, fabricated on a 1.5-V, 0.13-µm, all-layer copper SRAM process. The device integrates 12,060 logic elements (LEs), 239,616 bits of embedded RAM organized in 52 M4K blocks, 185 user I/Os, and 2 PLLs inside a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA) package. The speed grade is C8 (commercial, -8 speed), and the trailing N denotes a lead-free / Pb-free finish. A Cyclone FPGA is a SRAM-based, look-up-table (LUT) based programmable logic device that lets designers implement arbitrary digital logic, state machines, glue logic, and soft-processor cores (such as the Nios II) without custom silicon. Within the broader hierarchy, an FPGA belongs to programmable logic devices (PLDs), then to logic ICs, then to integrated circuits; the Cyclone family is Intel/Altera's low-cost, high-volume FPGA line, sitting below the Stratix high-performance family and above the MAX CPLD line. Cyclone devices are designed for cost-sensitive, high-volume applications such as digital signal processing front-ends, industrial control, and display interfaces. Key features of the EP1C12F256C8N include up to 12,060 LEs for combinational and sequential logic, 239,616 bits of true dual-port or simple dual-port RAM (52 M4K blocks of 4,608 bits each), a single 1.5-V core supply with on-chip voltage regulation, and 2 PLLs providing clock multiplication, phase shifting, and skew management. The device supports LVDS I/O on selected banks and offers typical internal clock speeds up to 275 MHz in this speed grade, with rich DSP support through dedicated multiplier blocks when paired with logic. The architecture centers on LABs (Logic Array Blocks) of 10 LEs each, interconnected by a multi-level routing fabric. Embedded M4K memory blocks allow efficient buffering, FIFO, and shift-register implementation without consuming logic resources. Configuration is loaded from a serial or parallel EPCS / EPC flash memory, and the device is reprogrammable in-system via JTAG or Active Serial / Active Parallel interfaces. Typical applications include industrial motor control and machine vision, consumer display controllers (LCD/DVI/HDMI bridges), telecom line cards, automotive infotainment pre-production, and cost-sensitive DSP front ends. The 256-ball FBGA package supports high pin-count designs while remaining compatible with standard 1.0 mm pitch BGA PCB assembly. When designing with this part, engineers should plan power sequencing (1.5-V core, separate PLL analog supply, and I/O bank supplies), thermal management (low-power 0.13-µm process keeps TJA modest), and a configuration scheme that survives field updates. Engineers should also verify Quartus II version compatibility, since older Cyclone devices require legacy Quartus releases for synthesis, fitting, and bitstream generation. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-family variants, and practical design notes that are not collated in the original Altera Cyclone Family Data Sheet alone.
EP1C12F256I7 - Cyclone FPGA, 12,060 LEs, 256-FBGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12F256I7 is a member of the original Cyclone family of low-cost FPGAs, providing 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM, and 185 user I/O pins housed in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package. It is fabricated on a 130 nm process and targets cost-sensitive applications where a true programmable logic fabric is needed without the power or cost of larger Stratix-class parts. The 'I7' speed/temperature grade suffix places this variant in the industrial temperature range (-40C to +100C), making it suitable for uncontrolled-environment deployments. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated hard IP such as memory blocks, PLLs, and I/O serializers. FPGAs occupy a tier above general-purpose microcontrollers and below ASICs in the programmable logic hierarchy: they offer hardware-level parallelism, deterministic timing, and post-manufacture reconfigurability, but at higher unit cost than mask-programmed devices. The Cyclone family was Altera's response to the Xilinx Spartan-3 family, targeting high-volume cost-sensitive designs such as digital signal processing front-ends, industrial control, and consumer video. Key features of the EP1C12F256I7 include 12,060 logic elements organized into 1,206 logic array blocks (LABs), 239,616 bits of M4K embedded memory (approximately 52 blocks of 4,608 bits each), two PLLs for clock synthesis and skew management, and 185 user I/O supporting multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and differential LVDS pairs. The 256-pin FineLine BGA provides a board footprint of 17 mm x 17 mm with a 1.0 mm ball pitch, balancing pin density against PCB manufacturability. The device operates from a 1.5 V core supply with separate VCCIO banks for I/O standard flexibility. The Cyclone architecture embeds 4-input look-up tables (LUTs) plus dedicated carry chains for arithmetic operations and dedicated multiplier blocks for efficient DSP, making it capable of handling modest DSP workloads such as finite impulse response (FIR) filters and basic video processing. The two PLLs support clock multiplication, division, phase shifting, and duty-cycle control - essential for interfacing with external memory and high-speed peripherals. Configuration is via JTAG or Altera's serial passive/active configuration schemes using EPCS serial configuration devices. Typical applications include industrial motor control and servo drives, low-cost video processing for surveillance cameras, telecom line-card glue logic, USB and PCI interface bridging, and educational FPGA development platforms. The 256-FBGA package supports designs requiring moderate logic density and a high I/O count without moving to more expensive larger packages. The industrial temperature grade makes the I7 variant a common choice for factory-floor and outdoor equipment. When designing with this device, pay close attention to power sequencing of the 1.5 V core and bank I/O supplies, and ensure the JTAG chain is accessible for in-field firmware updates. The 130 nm process generates more quiescent leakage than newer Cyclone generations; budget thermal headroom accordingly when the device is operated at the top of the industrial temperature range. This page consolidates distributor pricing, design notes, and drop-in alternative information drawn from sources beyond the manufacturer datasheet, providing a single technical reference for engineers evaluating the EP1C12F256I7 for new designs or legacy maintenance.
EP1C12F256I7N - Cyclone FPGA, 12K LEs, 256-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12F256I7N is a low-cost Cyclone FPGA with 12,060 logic elements housed in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package with industrial temperature grade. Built on a 0.13 μm SRAM-based process, the device delivers up to 239,616 bits of embedded RAM and 185 user I/O pins, targeting high-volume cost-sensitive designs that need programmable logic without the power and price of high-end FPGAs. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that contains an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that can be re-programmed to implement arbitrary digital logic functions after manufacturing. FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs and software-driven processors in the design hierarchy: more flexible than ASICs, faster and more deterministic than general-purpose CPUs for parallel DSP and glue-logic tasks. Cyclone family FPGAs specifically target the low-cost, low-power end of the FPGA market for applications such as consumer electronics, industrial control, communications glue logic, and display interfaces. Key features include 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 RAM bits organized into M4K memory blocks, two PLLs for clock management, and 185 user I/O pins supporting multiple I/O standards including LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and PCI. The 256-pin FineLine BGA package offers high-density board integration while the industrial-grade -40°C to +100°C operating temperature range supports harsh-environment deployment. Architecturally, the Cyclone device uses a 4-input look-up table (LUT) based logic element with embedded carry chain for arithmetic operations, distributed and block RAM for on-chip storage, and dedicated global clock networks with up to eight clock per quadrant. Configuration is typically loaded from a serial configuration device such as the EPCS4 or EPCS16 over an active serial interface. Typical applications include industrial motor control and factory automation, video processing pipelines, protocol bridging between legacy and modern interfaces, software-defined radio front-end signal conditioning, and low-volume ASIC prototyping. The combination of high logic density and low unit cost also makes the part attractive for educational platforms and evaluation boards. When designing with this part, plan for configuration memory requirements and select a serial configuration device sized to the bitstream. Use the Quartus II design software for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing closure - older versions of Quartus (10.0 to 13.0) are typically used because the Cyclone device family is mature and newer releases prioritize newer device families. This page synthesizes distributor inventory, drop-in alternatives, and practical design considerations that engineers can use as a single reference, complementing the manufacturer datasheet with selection guidance and application context.
EP1C12F324C6AA - Cyclone FPGA 12K LE 324-BGA | Intel | Industrial
The Intel EP1C12F324C6AA is a Cyclone-series Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) featuring 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM, and 249 user I/O pins, housed in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package. Built on a 130 nm CMOS process and powered by a 1.5 V core supply, this device is specified for the commercial 0 C to +85 C operating range and supports internal clock rates up to 405.2 MHz. What is a Cyclone FPGA? A Cyclone FPGA is a low-cost, high-volume programmable logic device from the Altera (now Intel) Cyclone family that falls within the broader category of SRAM-based FPGAs. FPGAs sit within the programmable logic hierarchy of digital semiconductors (FPGA -> programmable logic -> logic IC -> integrated circuit) and are used to implement arbitrary digital logic, DSP, and glue-logic functions without custom ASIC fabrication. The Cyclone series specifically targets cost-sensitive applications where designers need programmable hardware acceleration without the expense of high-end FPGA families such as Stratix. Key features of the EP1C12F324C6AA include 12,060 logic elements, 52 embedded 18x18 multipliers suitable for DSP operations, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM organized as M4K blocks, 249 user I/O pins with support for multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and SSTL, and four phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management. The 1.5 V core is derived from an external supply with internal regulation and the I/O banks can be independently configured between 1.5 V and 3.3 V. The Cyclone architecture uses 4-input look-up tables (LUTs) as the basic logic element, with embedded multiplier blocks that can be configured as 9x9 or 18x18 hardware multipliers. The M4K memory blocks can be configured as RAM, ROM, or FIFO, supporting true dual-port operation. The four PLLs provide clock multiplication, division, phase shifting, and frequency synthesis, eliminating the need for external clock-generation ICs in most designs. Typical applications include industrial control and automation, video processing and image capture, telecommunications line cards, automotive infotainment and driver assistance systems, prototyping of ASIC designs, and embedded digital signal processing. The 324-BGA FineLine BGA package supports high I/O count designs while maintaining a compact board footprint suitable for space-constrained products. When designing with the EP1C12F324C6AA, careful attention must be paid to power supply sequencing between the 1.5 V core and the I/O voltages to prevent latch-up, and decoupling capacitors must be placed close to all power pins. The JTAG configuration interface should include the TCK, TMS, TDI, and TDO signals brought out to a header for in-system programming and debugging using the Quartus design software. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C12F324C6N - Cyclone 12,060 LEs FPGA, 324-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12F324C6N is a Cyclone® family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) with 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 RAM bits, and 249 user I/Os, housed in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package. Speed grade 6 with a -40°C to 0°C commercial operating range, the device is fabricated on a 130 nm process and operates from a 1.5 V core supply. The Cyclone architecture targets low-cost, high-volume applications requiring balanced logic, memory, and DSP resources. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a class of programmable logic device that allows hardware designers to configure digital circuits after manufacturing. FPGAs sit in the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) between simple Complex PLDs (CPLDs) and high-end Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs). The Cyclone family specifically targets cost-sensitive applications that still require meaningful logic density and embedded memory. FPGAs are programmed using hardware description languages such as Verilog or VHDL via vendor tools (Quartus II for Cyclone), and the configuration is loaded into SRAM cells at power-up. Key features include 12,060 logic elements distributed across 1,206 logic array blocks (LABs), 239,616 bits of embedded RAM (M4K blocks), two Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs) for clock management, and support for LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and SSTL I/O standards. The device includes up to 52 embedded 9-bit multipliers suited for DSP pipelines such as FIR filters and FFT butterflies. Differential signaling and dedicated global clock networks support high-speed source-synchronous interfaces common in video, communications, and industrial imaging. Typical applications include industrial motor control, video processing and display controllers, low-cost software-defined radio front ends, USB and Ethernet bridging logic, and glue-logic consolidation in telecom equipment. The 130 nm SRAM-based fabric requires a configuration flash or download cable on every board, and the 324-ball BGA footprint targets designs with sufficient PCB layer count (typically 6+ layers) for power plane and signal escape. When designing with this part, plan the configuration source (EPCS serial flash is the most common companion) and provide a clean JTAG header for Quartus II programming. Decouple VCCINT (1.5 V) and VCCIO banks with 100 nF ceramic capacitors placed within 5 mm of each BGA ball cluster, and route all clocks through the dedicated global clock network for minimal skew. The C6N suffix indicates a -40°C to 0°C commercial temperature range and speed grade 6; choose C7N or C8N only when timing closure requires the faster device. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in and speed-grade alternatives, application guidance, and practical design notes beyond the datasheet, helping procurement, design, and validation engineers evaluate the EP1C12F324C6N in one view.
EP1C12F324C7 - Cyclone FPGA, 12,060 LEs, 324-BGA | Altera | Intel
The Altera (now Intel) EP1C12F324C7 is a Cyclone family Field-Programmable Gate Array delivering 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM, and 249 user I/Os in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package operating at up to 320 MHz on a 130 nm CMOS process at 1.5 V core. The device belongs to the original Cyclone series introduced for low-cost, high-volume FPGA designs and targets applications where 12060 logic cells are sufficient but deterministic logic capacity and high I/O count are required. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device containing configurable logic blocks (CLBs/LABs), programmable interconnects, and I/O cells, all governed by SRAM-based configuration memory. The Cyclone family sits at the low-cost end of the Altera/Intel FPGA hierarchy: it is positioned below Stratix/Cyclone high-performance families but above legacy MAX CPLDs. EP1C12F324C7 specifically uses 1,206 LABs (Logic Array Blocks) implemented in 130 nm technology, with each LAB containing 10 logic elements, giving the headline 12,060 LEs that designers plan around. Key features include 12,060 logic elements organized into 1,206 LABs, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM (M4K blocks) ideal for FIFO and small buffer functions, two embedded PLLs for clock multiplication and phase shifting, 249 user I/Os with multi-voltage I/O standards support, and JTAG-based configuration via the passive serial (PS) or active serial (AS) modes using low-cost EPCS configuration devices. The Cyclone architecture is fundamentally RAM-based, meaning the device loses its configuration when power is removed, so a configuration ROM or controller is mandatory on every board. Architecturally, the device uses 1.5 V core supply with separate VCCIO banks for I/O voltage flexibility. The four-input look-up table (LUT) per LE provides flexible logic implementation, while dedicated multiplier blocks (where available on larger Cyclone variants) and M4K memory blocks accelerate DSP and buffer functions. The device supports LVDS, SSTL, and other high-speed I/O standards, making it usable in low-to-mid speed communication interfaces. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation backplanes, low-cost video processing bridges, telecommunications line-card glue logic, consumer electronics requiring custom video or audio pipelines, and educational FPGA prototyping platforms where the Altera Quartus II design suite provides a complete flow from synthesis through bitstream generation. When designing with this part, always include a configuration ROM (such as EPCS4 or EPCS16) on the PCB because the SRAM-based configuration is volatile. JTAG chain ordering matters when multiple Altera devices share the chain, and the four JTAG pins (TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO) plus the nCONFIG/nSTATUS/CONF_DONE configuration control pins must be brought to accessible test points. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives from the Cyclone family, and practical design notes that go beyond what a single datasheet provides, enabling faster board bring-up and BOM hardening.
EP1C12F324C7N - Cyclone 12,060 LEs FPGA 324-BGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP1C12F324C7N is a Cyclone-series Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) featuring 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM, and 249 user I/O pins, housed in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package (FBGA-324, 19 mm x 19 mm body, 1.0 mm ball pitch). Built on a 1.5 V core, 130 nm CMOS process, the part targets cost-sensitive, high-volume digital logic integration. What is an FPGA? A Field Programmable Gate Array is a programmable logic device whose architecture consists of an array of configurable logic blocks (LABs), embedded memory, and programmable routing interconnect that the designer configures after manufacture. FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs and software-programmable processors in the design hierarchy, offering hardware-level parallelism with full design flexibility. The Cyclone family specifically targets low-cost, high-volume applications where power, density, and price dominate over the highest possible performance. Key specifications include 1,206 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 249 maximum user I/O pins, two on-chip PLLs for clock management, and support for external memory interfaces including DDR SDRAM and FCRAM. The 'C7' speed grade delivers up to 320 MHz internal operation, while the 'N' suffix indicates a lead-free, RoHS-compliant package finish. Architecturally, Cyclone-I devices use 4-input lookup tables (LUTs) per logic element, embedded M4K memory blocks (each 4 Kbit with dual-port capability), and dedicated I/O elements supporting LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and HSTL standards. Configuration is via active serial (AS), passive serial (PS), or JTAG, allowing in-system reprogrammability for design iteration and field updates. Typical applications include industrial control and motor drive glue logic, consumer video processing pipelines, low-cost video capture and display bridging, telecom line-card glue logic, and prototype ASIC replacement. The combination of 249 user I/Os and 12,060 LEs is well suited for mid-complexity parallel data paths such as camera sensor aggregation, LVDS-based displays, and protocol bridges. When designing with the EP1C12F324C7N, plan the PCB layout for the 1.0 mm pitch BGA - escape routing requires via-in-pad or dogbone fan-out and at least 6 PCB layers for clean signal integrity on DDR interfaces. Use Altera / Intel Quartus II (or the latest supported edition) for design capture; verify pinout against the device handbook for your specific configuration scheme. This page synthesizes real-time distributor inventory, drop-in same-family alternatives, comparison data versus the industrial-temperature 'I7' grade, and practical Quartus II configuration notes not found in a single manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C12F324C8 - Cyclone FPGA, 12060 LEs, 324-BGA | Intel
The Intel EP1C12F324C8 is a Cyclone family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) fabricated on a 130 nm CMOS process, integrating 12,060 logic elements in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package measuring 19 x 19 mm with 1.0 mm ball pitch. The device provides up to 249 user I/O pins and includes 239,616 bits of embedded RAM organized across 1206 LABs/CLBs, with system performance supporting internal clock frequencies up to 275 MHz. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a programmable logic device that allows engineers to implement arbitrary digital logic functions after PCB fabrication, sitting within the broader taxonomy of programmable logic -> logic ICs -> integrated circuits -> semiconductors. Unlike fixed-function ASICs, Cyclone FPGAs contain a matrix of configurable logic blocks (LABs), embedded memory blocks, PLLs, and programmable interconnect that can be rewritten in-circuit via a configuration bitstream loaded from external Flash or through JTAG. Key features of the EP1C12F324C8 include 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded SRAM (M4K blocks), two PLLs for clock management, support for multiple I/O standards including LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and PCI, and a core voltage of 1.5 V with I/O voltages up to 3.3 V. The device operates across the commercial 0C to +85C temperature range (C8 speed grade), with C8 denoting a specific timing closure bin of approximately 275 MHz internal performance. Architecturally, the EP1C12F324C8 uses SRAM-based configuration cells requiring external configuration memory, distinguishing it from one-time-programmable (OTP) antifuse or flash-based FPGAs. The 130 nm process node balances cost and performance for high-volume applications, and the device supports Altera's Quartus II design software (legacy) for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing analysis. Typical applications include industrial motor control, video processing pipelines, telecommunications line cards, low-cost ASIC prototyping, and consumer electronics requiring moderate logic density with flexible I/O. Engineers choose Cyclone I when cost-per-logic-element is the primary constraint and 130 nm performance is sufficient. When designing with this FPGA, verify that your Quartus II tool version supports the EP1C12 device family and that your configuration memory (EPCS1/EPCS4 or compatible) matches the chosen configuration scheme. The FBGA-324 package requires careful PCB layout with matched-length impedance-controlled traces for DDR/LVDS interfaces. This page synthesizes Intel/Altera datasheet specifications, distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives from the Cyclone I family, and practical PCB/thermal design guidance not consolidated in the original datasheet.
EP1C12F324C8L - Cyclone FPGA 12,060 LEs FBGA-324 | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12F324C8L is a Cyclone family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 RAM bits, and 249 user I/O pins in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package with 1.0 mm pitch and a 19x19 mm body. Speed grade 8 (slower) and the 'L' suffix denote the low-power variant optimized for power-sensitive designs. What is a Cyclone FPGA? The Cyclone family is a low-cost SRAM-based FPGA line introduced by Altera (now part of Intel's Programmable Solutions Group) targeting high-volume, cost-sensitive applications. As a member of the broader programmable logic device (PLD) taxonomy, Cyclone devices sit between simple CPLDs and high-performance FPGAs like Stratix, offering a balance of logic density, embedded memory, and I/O bandwidth at a lower price point. The EP1C12 sits in the middle of the original Cyclone lineup, providing ample resources for glue logic, bus bridging, and moderate DSP workloads. Key features of the EP1C12F324C8L include 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM organized as M4K blocks, two PLL blocks for clock management, and support for multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and LVDS. The device operates from a 1.5 V core supply with separate VCCIO banks configurable to 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, or 3.3 V, enabling flexible mixed-voltage interfacing. Architecturally, the Cyclone FPGA uses a 4-input lookup table (LUT)-based logic element with embedded carry chains for efficient arithmetic, distributed and block RAM for on-chip storage, and a configurable interconnect fabric. The 1.0 mm pitch FBGA-324 package enables fine-pitch PCB assembly while maintaining signal integrity for moderate-speed designs. Typical applications include industrial control and glue logic, telecommunication line cards, video processing pipelines, and embedded computing platforms. The low-power variant is well-suited for portable test equipment and fanless industrial designs where thermal dissipation is constrained. When designing with this device, ensure proper decoupling on all VCC and VCCIO rails and follow Intel's PCB layout guidelines for FineLine BGA packages. Configuration via JTAG or active serial (AS) modes requires an external configuration device or download cable, depending on system requirements. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-family drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet, giving procurement and engineering teams a single reference for evaluation.
EP1C12F324C8N - Cyclone FPGA, 12K LE, 324-BGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12F324C8N is a Cyclone® family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM, and 249 user I/O pins in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package. Built on a 1.5 V, 130 nm CMOS process, the device delivers up to 275 MHz core performance and includes two PLLs, 12 embedded 18x18 multipliers, and JTAG-based configuration support via the ByteBlaster or USB-Blaster download cables. The 'C8' speed grade and 'N' lead-free suffix indicate a commercial temperature range (0 °C to +85 °C) with Pb-free ball finish. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that lets engineers implement arbitrary digital circuits through a configuration bitstream. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable logic hierarchy: ASIC < Gate Array < CPLD < FPGA, with FPGAs offering the highest logic density, the richest I/O fabric, and the largest embedded memory and DSP block count. They are used whenever time-to-market, design flexibility, or low-volume custom logic outweighs the per-unit cost advantage of a mask-programmed ASIC. Key features include 12,060 logic elements organized into 1,206 LABs (Logic Array Blocks), 239,616 bits of M4K embedded memory, 12 dedicated 18x18 hardware multipliers suited for DSP pipelines, two PLLs with four outputs for clock synthesis, and 249 general-purpose I/O pins supporting LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and LVDS signaling. The 324-ball FineLine BGA package offers a compact 19 mm x 19 mm footprint with 1.0 mm pitch, suited for high-density PCBs. The Cyclone architecture pairs a four-input LUT-based logic fabric with columnar memory and multiplier blocks. Distributed and M4K memory can be configured as single-port, dual-port, or shift-register RAM with byte-enable support. Configuration is volatile SRAM-based, requiring an external configuration device such as the EPCS4 or EPCS16 serial flash to load the bitstream at power-up. The Quartus II design suite (legacy releases 7.x–13.0sp1 are recommended for Cyclone I) handles synthesis, place-and-route, and timing closure. Typical applications include industrial motor control, telecom interface bridges, video processing pipelines, low-cost protocol converters (UART/SPI/I2C bridging), and educational FPGA platforms. The 1.5 V core, 130 nm process, and Cyclone I feature set target cost-sensitive, mid-complexity designs that do not require transceivers or hard processor cores. When designing with this device, plan a serial configuration PROM (EPCS4, EPCS8, or EPCS16) and proper decoupling—100 nF at every VCC pin plus 33 µF bulk—to ensure clean SRAM-based configuration. Use the Quartus II Pin Planner to assign LVDS pairs on differential-capable I/O banks. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in Cyclone I alternatives, and practical Quartus II design notes not found in the legacy Altera Cyclone Device Handbook.
EP1C12F324C8NGA - Cyclone FPGA, 12K LE, 324-BGA | Intel
The Intel EP1C12F324C8NGA is a member of the first-generation Cyclone FPGA family, delivering 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM, and 249 user I/O pins in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package. Operating at the commercial speed grade 8 with a -40C to +85C industrial temperature range, the device is built on a 0.13 µm SRAM-process fabric that supports live configuration from an external serial or parallel flash. The 324-BGA (F324) package measures 19 mm x 19 mm with a 1.0 mm ball pitch, providing dense I/O access for high-pin-count designs in a moderate board footprint. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built from a matrix of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and I/O cells that the designer programs after manufacture. Within the broader hierarchy, an FPGA sits between general-purpose microcontrollers and fixed-function ASICs: it offers higher logic density and parallel throughput than a microcontroller, while remaining reprogrammable unlike an ASIC. Cyclone-family FPGAs target cost-sensitive, high-volume applications where ASIC NRE costs are not justified. Key features include 12,060 logic elements, 52 embedded 18x18 multipliers, two PLLs for clock management, 239,616 bits of embedded SRAM, and 249 user I/O pins supporting LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and HSTL I/O standards. The device operates from a 1.5 V core supply with separate VCCIO banks for I/O flexibility. The Cyclone architecture uses a 4-input look-up table (LUT) per logic element, embedded multiplier blocks for DSP operations, and M4K RAM blocks for efficient on-chip memory. Configuration is loaded via passive serial (PS), active serial (AS), or JTAG modes from an external EPCS configuration device. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation, video processing and image filtering, low-cost digital signal processing, communications protocol bridging, and consumer electronics requiring moderate logic density. The wide operating temperature range also suits industrial and embedded systems. When designing with the EP1C12F324C8NGA, ensure that all VCCINT, VCCIO, and PLL analog supplies are properly decoupled with 0.1 µF and 10 µF capacitors placed close to the package balls. A dedicated configuration device such as EPCS4 or EPCS16 should be used for non-volatile bitstream storage, and JTAG access should be brought out to a header for in-system programming. This page synthesizes distributor inventory, Cyclone-family drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes for industrial and embedded FPGA applications that are not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP1C12F324I7 - Cyclone FPGA 12,060 LE | 324-FBGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP1C12F324I7 is a Cyclone® family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) built on a 130 nm SRAM process, delivering 12,060 logic elements in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package. It provides 239,616 bits of embedded RAM, 249 maximum user I/O pins, and supports a core voltage of 1.5 V across the industrial temperature range (-40 °C to +100 °C). The device is built around a cost-optimized architecture that targets high-volume, logic-intensive applications where ASIC-class power and unit cost are prohibitive. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated silicon resources such as block RAM, PLLs, and I/O transceivers. FPGAs sit in the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) and bridge the gap between fixed-function ASICs and software-programmable processors, allowing hardware designers to implement arbitrary digital logic that is re-programmable in-system. The Cyclone family specifically targets low-power, low-cost designs that still require the parallelism and integration advantages of programmable logic. Key features of the EP1C12F324I7 include 12,060 logic elements distributed across 1,206 logic array blocks (LABs), 239,616 RAM bits organized into M4K memory blocks, two phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, and support for multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, and LVDS. The 130 nm process technology delivers an internal operating frequency of up to 320.1 MHz, providing ample margin for glue-logic, bridging, and digital signal processing (DSP) front-end applications. Architecturally, the device integrates dedicated multiplier blocks, embedded memory, and a four-level routing hierarchy optimized for the Altera Quartus II design flow. Configuration is loaded from a serial PROM or via JTAG, and the part supports in-system programmability (ISP) for rapid prototyping and field upgrades. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation, video processing and image capture pipelines, communications infrastructure line cards, military and aerospace systems requiring industrial-grade plastic packaging, and embedded prototyping where fast time-to-market justifies FPGA unit cost over ASIC NRE. The wide I/O count also makes the EP1C12F324I7 suitable for data-acquisition front-ends and parallel bus bridging. When designing with this part, use the Altera Quartus II (or later) toolchain for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing closure. Note that the Cyclone family has been superseded by Cyclone II/III/IV/V and MAX series devices in new designs; this part remains in distribution primarily for maintenance of legacy systems.
EP1C12F324I7N - Cyclone FPGA 12,060 LE 324-FBGA | Intel | Industrial
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12F324I7N is a member of the Cyclone family of low-cost field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) fabricated on a 130 nm process, offering 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 RAM bits, and 249 user I/Os in a 324-ball FineLine BGA package. It operates over the industrial temperature range of -40C to +100C and supports a core voltage of 1.5 V with I/O banks configurable to 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, or 3.3 V using LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and HSTL I/O standards. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated block RAM, DSP, and I/O resources. Architecturally, an FPGA sits between a microcontroller (fixed-function, sequential execution) and an ASIC (custom-fabricated, fixed function), offering hardware-level parallelism with the flexibility of in-field re-programmability. The Cyclone family is positioned as the low-cost branch of the Intel/Altera FPGA portfolio, optimized for cost-sensitive volume applications such as industrial control, video processing, and communications bridging. Key features include 12,060 logic elements organized as logic array blocks (LABs), 52 embedded M4K memory blocks totaling 239,616 RAM bits (about 29 KBytes of dedicated block RAM), up to two PLLs for clock management, and a maximum operating frequency in the 250-320 MHz range depending on design. The device is configured via a serial configuration device and supports JTAG boundary-scan testing. The 324-ball FBGA package uses a 1.0 mm ball pitch and is approximately 19 x 19 mm, requiring standard JEDEC JEDEC-MS-034-compliant PCB land patterns. Typical applications include industrial motor control, video surveillance and image processing, automotive infotainment prototyping, telecom line cards, and low-cost DSP front-ends. The 249 user I/Os are sufficient to interface directly to DDR SDRAM, parallel video buses, and multiple LVDS channels. The Cyclone architecture is well supported by the Quartus II / Quartus Prime design toolchain, including the Qsys system integration tool and the Nios II soft-core processor for embedded CPU subsystems. When designing with this device, ensure the PCB land pattern follows JEDEC MS-034 for the 324-ball FBGA, and that decoupling capacitors are placed as close as practical to each power pin group. The industrial temperature grade (-40C to +100C) makes this part suitable for outdoor enclosures, factory automation, and other harsh-environment deployments. Verify configuration mode selection (AS, PS, JTAG) matches your chosen EPCS serial configuration device. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in Cyclone family alternatives, and practical design considerations that are not collated in any single manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers shorten the sourcing and qualification cycle for Cyclone I based designs.
EP1C12Q240 - Cyclone FPGA 12060 LE 173 IO | Altera
The Altera EP1C12Q240 is a Cyclone field-programmable gate array (FPGA) containing 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM, and 173 user I/O pins in a 240-pin BFQFP package, fabricated on a 1.5-V, 0.13-um all-layer copper SRAM process. An FPGA is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric is configured after manufacturing rather than being fixed at the factory. In the product hierarchy, the EP1C12Q240 is an FPGA (field-programmable gate array), a type of programmable logic device, and part of the broader semiconductor category. Because it is SRAM-based, its configuration is volatile and must be loaded from an external source such as an Altera EPCS-series configuration device, a processor, or a JTAG download cable at every power-up. Key features include 1,206 logic array blocks (LABs), 239,616 RAM bits, and 173 user I/O pins. The package is a 240-pin BFQFP plastic quad flat pack, which gives designers accessible leads for inspection and rework. The Cyclone family data sheet highlights JTAG boundary-scan testing, enabling both configuration and board-level interconnect testing through the IEEE 1149.1 interface. The core operates from a 1.5-V supply, and the family is based on a 0.13-um all-layer copper SRAM process. The Cyclone architecture combines a row-based logic array with embedded memory blocks and flexible routing, making it efficient for state machines, counters, FIFOs, protocol bridges, and moderate data-path logic. With 173 I/O pins in the Q240 variant, the device can connect to wide parallel buses, displays, memory devices, and industrial transceivers. It does not have the fixed processing resources of a microcontroller; all system functions are implemented in the programmable logic fabric. Typical applications include industrial motor and PLC I/O, VGA and retro-video generation, protocol bridging, data acquisition, and low-cost prototyping. The EP1C12Q240 is also used in legacy products such as the OneChipBook-12 board, which drives a 1024x768 VGA display and is based on the Cyclone EP1C12Q240 FPGA. For engineers maintaining older systems, the part provides a known footprint and configuration ecosystem. When laying out the 240-pin BFQFP, decouple the 1.5-V core rails with 100 nF capacitors close to each supply pin plus bulk capacitance on the board. Place the configuration pins - DCLK, DATA0, nCONFIG, nSTATUS, and CONF_DONE - with appropriate pull-up resistors as recommended by Altera, and leave enough routing channels for the 173 user I/O pins, which fan out quickly on a high-pin-count QFP. This page synthesizes DigiKey and Mouser listings, Cyclone family datasheet information, drop-in same-brand suffix variants, and practical board-level guidance that are not all collected on a single distributor page. It is intended for engineers managing end-of-life Cyclone I designs or evaluating a suitable orderable variant for legacy FPGA replacement.
EP1C12Q240C6 - Cyclone FPGA, 12K LE, 240-PQFP | Intel
The Intel EP1C12Q240C6 is a Cyclone-family field-programmable gate array (FPGA) containing 12,060 logic elements, 173 user I/O pins, and 239,616 RAM bits, supplied in a 240-pin PQFP (BFQFP) surface-mount package. Designed on 130 nm process technology with a 1.5 V core supply, this device supports internal clock operation up to 405.2 MHz, making it suitable for cost-sensitive logic integration, protocol bridging, and moderate DSP tasks. A field-programmable gate array is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric and routing can be reconfigured after manufacturing. FPGAs sit above CPLD complexity and implement parallel hardware functions such as state machines, bus bridges, image-processing pipelines, and protocol acceleration. The Cyclone family was Altera's low-cost FPGA series and was positioned between MAX CPLDs and high-end Stratix FPGAs; EP1C12 specifically occupies the mid-density segment of that product hierarchy. Key EP1C12Q240C6 features include 12,060 logic elements arranged in 1,206 LABs, 173 usable I/O pins, and 239,616 bits of embedded RAM. This resource density provides enough fabric to implement soft controller cores, line buffers, communication controllers, and user-defined coprocessors. The 405.2 MHz internal switching figure, listed in parametric search results, helps designers estimate timing headroom for synchronous designs implemented in this device. At the architecture level, Cyclone FPGAs use a segmented routing fabric with logic array blocks containing ten logic elements each. The 1.5 V core differentiates the device from earlier 2.5 V/3.3 V FPGAs, lowering dynamic power, while 130 nm lithography reduces cost. The Q240 package exposes 184 or more signals in a surface-mount PQFP, making it easier to route than high-density ball-grid arrays on four-layer boards. Typical applications include industrial motor-control logic, video capture and scaling, communication-protocol bridging, medical interface boards, and embedded test-and-measurement front ends. Its 173 user I/O pins allow direct connection to SRAM, ADCs, DACs, displays, and backplane transceivers without excessive external logic. Because this is an SRAM-based FPGA, it must be configured from an external source such as an EPC/EPCS serial configuration device or a host processor after power-up. The 240-pin PQFP package requires careful decoupling of the 1.5 V core rail and the 3.3 V I/O rail, plus attention to configuration pin strapping. This page synthesizes distributor price references, pin-compatible same-family alternatives, and practical power and layout guidance not found in a single datasheet search result. You can quickly compare EP1C12Q240C6 packaged and lead-free alternatives without loading multiple distributor pages.
EP1C12Q240C6N - Cyclone FPGA, 12060 LE, 240-Pin QFP | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP1C12Q240C6N is a Cyclone-series field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 RAM bits, and 173 user I/Os, supplied in a 240-pin quad flat pack (PQFP/BFQFP) operating from a 1.5 V core supply. The N suffix denotes a lead-free/RoHS-compliant finish, and the C6 speed grade indicates a commercial-temperature, -6 speed grade part. An FPGA is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric, I/O behavior, and routing are configured by SRAM bitstream data after power-up rather than being fixed during manufacture. It belongs to the programmable-logic hierarchy: FPGA -> field-programmable device -> programmable logic device -> digital semiconductor. FPGAs provide flexible implementation of state machines, bus interfaces, DSP data paths, and embedded processing systems while allowing in-field updates, which makes them useful for prototyping, low-volume production, and hardware acceleration. The EP1C12Q240C6N integrates 12,060 logic elements based on four-input look-up tables, equivalent to 52 M4K memory blocks that form the 239,616 RAM bits, and 173 individually configurable user I/O pins. The 1.5 V core, 130 nm process technology, and 320.1 MHz class internal clock allow high-speed interface implementations while retaining the low-cost Cyclone family positioning. Because the device is SRAM-based, it must be configured from an external EPCS/EPC serial configuration device or via JTAG at every power-up. Key architectural features include dedicated carry chains for arithmetic functions, multiple I/O banks with differential and single-ended standards support, and the simplicity of a PLA-looking floorplan. Unlike newer Cyclone devices, the first-generation Cyclone family does not include hardened DSP multiplier blocks, so algorithmic multiplication is implemented in logic elements or external parts. RoHS compliance in the N version simplifies European and global regulatory acceptance, while the 240-pin QFP package is easier to prototype and inspect than fine-pitch BGA alternatives. Typical applications include industrial control and motor-drive logic, communications line-card bridging, video-capture formatting, automotive body-electronics modules, LCD/display controllers, and low-cost ASIC validation boards. The 173 I/Os provide enough connectivity for parallel ADCs, DACs, memory busses, and processor interfaces in these systems. A critical design consideration is that every Cyclone FPGA requires a configuration source at power-up. Use a compatible EPCS serial configuration device or a JTAG host, and connect the mode-select (MSEL) pins correctly, otherwise the FPGA will not be programmed. Pay attention to the 1.5 V core supply; provide adequate decoupling and verify that I/O bank voltages match the connected logic families. This page goes beyond the basic datasheet by combining distributor stock and pricing, drop-in Q240 package alternatives, temperature and speed-grade differences, and practical board-level design notes for engineers evaluating the EP1C12Q240C6N.
EP1C12Q240C6NAA - Cyclone FPGA 12060 LE 173 I/O | Intel
The Intel EP1C12Q240C6NAA is a Cyclone-family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) that provides 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 RAM bits, and 173 user I/O pins in a 240-pin BFQFP package. The part is the commercial-grade, -6 speed-grade ordering variant of the EP1C12 density in the 240Q plastic package, making it suitable for mid-density logic, control, and I/O-intensive applications. An FPGA is a reconfigurable integrated circuit whose logic fabric consists of programmable logic elements, routing resources, and input/output blocks. Unlike a microcontroller that executes sequential instructions, an FPGA implements digital functions as parallel dedicated hardware, with its behavior defined by a configuration bitstream loaded after power-up. In the product hierarchy, an FPGA is a type of programmable logic device, which is itself a class of configurable digital integrated circuit. For embedded-systems engineers, the choice between FPGA, CPLD, MCU, and ASIC depends on required logic density, interface flexibility, time-to-market, and production volume. Verified distributor data for EP1C12Q240C6NAA lists 12,060 logic elements/cells, 239,616 RAM bits, and 173 user I/O; the device is supplied in a 240-BFQFP, offered with tray packaging, and has an MSL rating of 3 (168 hours). Additional family-level comparison data identifies the EP1C12Q240 family as a 130nm FPGA with a 1.5V core supply, allowing a predictable low-voltage core rail on the PCB while maintaining multiple independent I/O bank supplies for interface flexibility. The Cyclone architecture balances logic capacity, memory, and I/O: 12,060 logic elements can hold soft processors, state machines, parallel data paths, or system glue logic, while the embedded RAM blocks can implement FIFOs, line buffers, small packet memories, and look-up tables. The 173 user I/O pins, combined with the 240-pin package pinout, support several parallel buses and byte-wide interfaces. Because the device is an SRAM-based FPGA, it must be configured at power-up from a configuration EEPROM, flash memory, or an external processor; production boards therefore need a configuration source in addition to the FPGA itself. Typical applications include industrial motor and inverter control, production-machine logic, video line capture and pixel preprocessing, and protocol bridging between parallel and serial buses. The 240-pin QFP package is easier to route on lower-layer-count boards than large ball-grid-array FPGAs, making the device attractive for compact industrial control boards that still require a significant amount of programmable logic. Designers should pay close attention to the multiple power pins: 1.5V core pins, I/O bank supply pins, and configuration pins should all be decoupled close to the package. On a QFP of this size, placing a 0.1uF ceramic capacitor near each power pin and adding bulk capacitance around the package is a practical starting point. I/O bank selection and pin assignment should be performed early in the design with the FPGA vendor pin planning tools to reduce layout risk. This page combines distributor stock checks, cross-reference search results, and practical design notes, adding sourcing and replacement context that is not usually included inside the manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C12Q240C7 - Cyclone FPGA 12K LEs 240-PQFP | Intel (Altera)
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12Q240C7 is a Cyclone series Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM, and 173 user I/O pins in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP / BFQFP) package. Speed grade 7 and commercial 0C to 85C temperature rating make it a mainstream density choice for cost-sensitive, non-industrial logic integration. The device is built on a 130 nm SRAM process, supports in-system configuration via serial or parallel configuration devices, and targets glue-logic, bus-bridging, and moderate-complexity DSP-front-end tasks. An FPGA is a programmable logic device that lets engineers implement arbitrary digital circuits through configuration of an array of logic elements (LEs), embedded memory blocks, and routing resources, all hardwired as a sea of gates. FPGAs sit between discrete TTL/CMOS glue logic and ASICs: faster to market than ASICs, far more flexible than fixed-function CPLDs, and capable of running parallel hardware tasks (DSP, packet processing, video pipelines) that microcontrollers execute sequentially at lower throughput. Cyclone-class FPGAs specifically target the low-power, low-cost segment where the legacy gate-array style programmable logic was previously over-spec'd. Key features of the EP1C12Q240C7 include four Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs) for clock synthesis and skew management, dedicated 18x18 hardware multipliers for fixed-point DSP, dual-purpose configuration pins that can serve as user I/O after configuration, support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and LVDS I/O standards, and 239,616 bits of M4K embedded memory arranged as true dual-port or single-port blocks. The 240-pin PQFP package is surface-mountable but uses 0.5 mm pitch gull-wing leads, which is unusual for modern fine-pitch BGA-class parts but acceptable for hand-prototyping and moderate-density production runs. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation controllers, telecom line-card glue logic and protocol bridging, video processing front-ends and image preprocessing pipelines, software-defined radio baseband preprocessing, and legacy parallel-bus extension for microprocessors. The Cyclone architecture is supported by the Quartus II design suite (legacy versions 6.0 through 13.0sp1 are still widely used) and the part is mature enough that reference designs, IP cores, and HDL examples are abundant in the public domain. Designers should note that this part is in long-term mature status - new designs targeting EP1C12Q240C7 should evaluate Cyclone IV (EP4CE) or Cyclone V (5CE) families for active long-term support, but existing boards can still be maintained and re-spun using the original part. Configuration memory is volatile SRAM, so an external configuration device (EPCS1/EPCS4 or compatible flash) is required at every power-up.
EP1C12Q240C7N - Cyclone 12,060 LEs FPGA 1.5V 240-PQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12Q240C7N is a Cyclone-family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 RAM bits, and 173 user I/Os in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP) package. It is fabricated on a 130 nm CMOS process, operates from a 1.5 V core supply, and is specified to a -7 speed grade with an internal performance of approximately 320 MHz. The part is intended as a low-cost, high-volume programmable logic device for glue logic, custom interfaces, and digital signal conditioning. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated I/O cells that the designer can re-program in the field. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable logic hierarchy: programmable logic device (PLD) -> CPLD -> FPGA -> SoC FPGA. Unlike a CPLD, which is non-volatile and best for small glue-logic functions, an FPGA uses SRAM-based configuration (for the Cyclone family, loaded from external flash at boot) and scales to tens of thousands of logic elements with embedded multipliers and memory blocks, making it the workhorse of custom digital hardware prototyping and low-volume production. Key features include 12,060 logic elements (roughly equivalent to 12,060 4-input look-up tables), 52 embedded 4-Kbit M4K memory blocks totaling 239,616 RAM bits, 173 maximum user I/O pins distributed across four I/O banks, and dedicated dual-clock PLLs. The 130 nm process node keeps dynamic and static power low compared to earlier families such as APEX 20K, while the 240-pin PQFP package exposes enough I/O to drive parallel buses, video interfaces, and multi-channel control planes without requiring a BGA fan-out. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation, low-cost video processing pipelines, motor and stepper control, custom peripheral bridges for microprocessors, and communications glue logic. The wide I/O count and 320 MHz internal fabric comfortably support legacy parallel interfaces (PCI up to 33 MHz, 16/32-bit SRAM/Flash buses, LVDS via external resistors) as well as modern LVCMOS 3.3 V and 2.5 V logic. When designing with this device, plan the configuration memory: Cyclone FPGAs are SRAM-based and require a serial or parallel configuration flash. Also note that the C7 speed grade (-7) is the slowest tier of the Cyclone I family; pin-compatible C6, C7, C8, and I7 variants allow designers to up-screen or relax timing without re-laying out the PCB. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible Cyclone I speed-grade variants, and practical design notes that are not consolidated in the original datasheet.
EP1C12Q240C8 - Cyclone FPGA 12,060 LEs 173 I/O 240-PQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12Q240C8 is a Cyclone® family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) built on a 130 nm CMOS process, delivering 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM (234 kbit), and 173 user I/O pins in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP / 240-BFQFP) gull-wing surface-mount package. The 'C8' speed grade targets an internal logic-array frequency around 275 MHz, making it suitable for glue-logic, bridge, and parallel I/O expansion roles in industrial control and legacy embedded designs. An FPGA is a programmable logic device whose logic fabric, routing, and I/O cells are configured by a bitstream loaded into on-chip SRAM at power-up. FPGAs sit between fixed-function Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) and software-programmable microcontrollers in the digital semiconductor hierarchy: logic device → programmable logic → FPGA → SRAM-based FPGA → CPLD. The Cyclone family was Altera's low-cost SRAM-based FPGA line, positioned below the Stratix high-performance tier and above the legacy MAX CPLD family, offering embedded multipliers and PLL-based clock management for cost-sensitive volume designs. Key features of the EP1C12Q240C8 include two Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs) for clock multiplication and deskew, embedded 18×18 multipliers (typical of the Cyclone architecture), LVTTL/LVCMOS/LVDS I/O support across multiple banks, and configuration via active serial (AS), passive serial (PS), or JTAG modes. The 240-PQFP package provides 173 usable I/O at 1.5 V core / 3.3 V I/O tolerant operation, with JTAG boundary-scan per IEEE 1149.1 supporting in-system programming and post-assembly board test. Architecturally, the device uses four-corner Logic Array Blocks (LABs) of 10 Logic Elements (LEs) each, with dedicated carry chains for fast arithmetic and a distributed M4K memory block array (24 blocks typical of Cyclone) totaling ~234 kbit. The 130 nm process offers low static leakage and predictable timing closure compared with older 180 nm Cyclone predecessors. Typical applications include industrial motor-control state machines, parallel peripheral expansion for legacy microcontrollers, factory-automation glue logic, glue logic between ASSP bridges and memory buses, telecom line-card interface controllers, and educational/hobby FPGA development platforms. The PQFP-240 package is also friendly to hand-soldering and rework for low-volume prototype builds. A primary design consideration is the 1.5 V core supply decoupling: place 0.1 µF ceramic capacitors adjacent to every VCCINT/VCCIO pin pair, with at least one bulk 100 µF tantalum or polymer capacitor on the PCB. Although the 240-PQFP package simplifies prototyping, designers targeting high-volume production typically migrate to the TQFP-144 or BGA-packaged Cyclone variants (e.g., EP1C12F256 / EP1C12F324) to reduce board area. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, making it easier for engineers to evaluate the EP1C12Q240C8 for new designs and to find pin-compatible replacements for EOL or long-lead-time situations.
EP1C12Q240C8N - Cyclone FPGA, 12,060 LEs, 240-PQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C12Q240C8N is a member of the original Cyclone FPGA family, built on a 1.5 V, 0.13 µm all-layer copper SRAM process, delivering 12,060 logic elements and up to 239,616 bits of embedded RAM in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP) package. It is offered in the commercial speed grade 8 with the standard (non-industrial) temperature range, targeting cost-sensitive digital logic, glue-logic, and legacy control applications. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a reconfigurable semiconductor whose logic fabric, interconnect, and I/O can be programmed by the designer after manufacture. FPGAs sit above ASICs and microcontrollers in the digital logic hierarchy (FPGA -> programmable logic device -> reconfigurable logic -> semiconductor), enabling parallel hardware implementation of DSP pipelines, state machines, bus bridges, and interface protocols without the NRE cost of an ASIC. The Cyclone family specifically positioned itself as a low-cost, low-power alternative to APEX and Stratix families for high-volume, price-driven designs. Key features of the EP1C12Q240C8N include 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 bits of embedded RAM organized in M4K blocks, two PLL-based clock management blocks, support for LVDS I/O at up to 640 Mbps, and a maximum of 173 user I/O pins in the 240-pin PQFP package. The device supports multiple configuration schemes including Active Serial (AS), Passive Serial (PS), and JTAG-based programming, and is supported by the Altera Quartus II design toolchain. The Cyclone architecture uses 4-input look-up tables (LUT4) per logic element, dedicated carry chains for arithmetic, and embedded multiplier blocks for DSP workloads. The 0.13 µm process combined with 1.5 V core operation reduces power versus the earlier APEX 20K and ACEX 1K families while keeping dynamic performance adequate for 66-133 MHz PCI and SDRAM controller applications. The two PLLs provide clock multiplication, division, and phase shifting for multi-clock domain designs. Typical applications include industrial automation controllers, telecom line cards, video processing front-ends, legacy PCI/PCI-X bus bridges, motor control, data acquisition systems, and replacement of multiple discrete glue-logic ICs with a single programmable device. The 240-pin PQFP package also makes it suitable for through-hole-friendly prototyping and hand-solderable designs. When designing with this part, ensure that the Quartus II fitter has been updated to the latest service pack for Cyclone device support, and verify that the chosen configuration memory (EPCS1/EPCS4) matches the bitstream size. Designers should also confirm that the I/O assignments fit within the 240-pin PQFP pin map and that the LVDS pairs are routed on dedicated true-differential pin pairs per the pinout file. This page synthesizes distributor pricing snapshots, drop-in same-family Cyclone I alternatives, and practical Quartus II design considerations that are not always covered in a single datasheet chapter.
EP1C12Q240I6 - Cyclone FPGA, 12,060 LEs, 240 PQFP | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP1C12Q240I6 is a member of the Cyclone FPGA family featuring 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 RAM bits, and 249 I/O pins, fabricated on a 130 nm process and housed in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) package. It operates from a 1.5 V core supply with 240 user I/O, two PLLs, and a maximum internal clock frequency of up to 405 MHz, delivering the lowest-cost FPGA solution in its class for high-volume applications. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a reconfigurable semiconductor that allows designers to implement arbitrary digital logic in silicon after manufacturing. FPGAs sit within the broader Programmable Logic Device (PLD) hierarchy, which also includes Complex PLDs (CPLDs) and Structured ASICs. Cyclone-family devices target cost-sensitive volume applications and occupy a specific niche below high-performance FPGAs but above CPLDs, integrating embedded multipliers, M4K RAM blocks, and JTAG-based configuration. Key features of the EP1C12Q240I6 include up to 12,060 logic elements, 52 embedded M4K memory blocks providing 239,616 total RAM bits, two general-purpose PLLs with four output taps each, support for LVDS, PCI, and SSTL-2 I/O standards, and JTAG-based boundary-scan testing via the IEEE 1149.1 standard. The 240-pin PQFP package uses gull-wing leads suitable for standard SMT assembly. Architecturally, the device combines 4-input look-up tables (LUTs) with dedicated carry-chain logic, distributed and block RAM, and a configuration architecture based on SRAM cells that allows unlimited re-programmability. The 130 nm process delivers a favorable cost/performance ratio while supporting a wide range of I/O voltages through configurable bank architecture. Typical applications include digital signal processing (DSP) front-ends, industrial control and machine vision, low-cost video processing, serial protocol bridging (PCI, LVDS, I2C, SPI), and embedded control systems. Its combination of high logic density, embedded multipliers, and JTAG debug makes it a frequent choice for prototyping and small-to-medium volume production. When designing with this device, allocate at least 4-6 layers on the PCB to maintain signal integrity on high-speed LVDS pairs, and decouple every power pin with 0.1 microF ceramic capacitors close to the package. Verify configuration mode (AS, PS, JTAG) early in the design cycle since JTAG pins are shared on the PQFP footprint. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, true drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes that go beyond what is published in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP1C12Q240I7 - 12K LE Cyclone FPGA 240-PQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP1C12Q240I7 is a Cyclone® family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering 12,060 logic elements, 239,616 RAM bits, and 173 user I/O pins in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP / BFQFP) surface-mount package. The device is built on a 1.5 V, 130 nm CMOS SRAM-based process and supports in-system configuration through Altera's serial or parallel configuration schemes. The 'I7' speed grade combined with the industrial temperature range (-40°C to +100°C junction) targets harsh-environment applications. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that allows engineers to implement arbitrary digital logic circuits through a sea of configurable logic blocks (LBs), embedded memory arrays, and programmable routing. FPGAs occupy the middle ground between fixed-function ASICs and microcontrollers: unlike ASICs, FPGAs are reprogrammable in the field; unlike microcontrollers, FPGAs achieve true hardware parallelism and deterministic timing. Within the broader IC taxonomy, the Cyclone family sits at the low-cost, high-volume end of the FPGA market — between CPLDs (smaller, non-volatile) and high-end FPGAs such as Altera Stratix or Xilinx Virtex. Key features of the EP1C12Q240I7 include 12,060 logic elements arranged into 1,206 logic array blocks (LABs), 239,616 bits of embedded RAM (M4K blocks), two phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, and 173 single-ended user I/O pins supporting LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and HSTL I/O standards. The 240-pin PQFP package offers a familiar through-hole-compatible surface-mount footprint that simplifies prototyping, while supporting Altera's Quartus® II design software for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing analysis. Architecturally, the Cyclone FPGA integrates a 2-D row/column interconnect with embedded multiplier blocks and dual-port M4K memory blocks, allowing designers to implement DSP functions, FIFO buffers, and memory-mapped peripherals without external components. The two PLLs support frequency synthesis, phase shifting, and clock de-skew across multiple clock domains — essential for high-speed digital designs. Typical applications include industrial motor control, telecommunications line-card glue logic, video processing pipelines, test and measurement equipment, and prototype ASIC emulation. The high I/O count (173 pins) and industrial temperature grade make this device particularly suitable for distributed control systems and legacy equipment retrofits. Design considerations for the Cyclone EP1C12Q240I7 include providing a stable 1.5 V core supply with proper decoupling, configuring the device through an Altera EPC configuration memory or microcontroller, and managing I/O bank voltages (VCCIO) to match connected peripherals. The 130 nm process implies static power in the hundreds of milliwatts; thermal management via copper pour is recommended at sustained high toggle rates. This page synthesizes distributor stock data, drop-in same-package variants, and Cyclone family design considerations not consolidated on any single manufacturer or distributor page.