FPGA & CPLD
Produits (6666)
EP20K100QC240-2 FPGA - 4160 LE, 189 IO | Altera
The Altera EP20K100QC240-2 is an APEX-20K field-programmable gate array (FPGA) containing 4,160 logic elements, 189 user I/O pins, and 53,248 RAM bits, with a 100K typical gate count and 263K maximum system gates. It operates from a nominal 2.5 V core supply and is supplied in a 240-pin BFQFP (plastic quad flat pack) package with 0.5 mm terminal pitch. This is the -2 speed grade variant of the EP20K100 QC240 family. An FPGA is a programmable logic device whose logic blocks and routing can be configured after manufacturing by loading a bitstream. In the IC hierarchy FPGA -> programmable logic device -> integrated circuit, the EP20K100 belongs to Altera's APEX-20K family, which combined look-up-table logic and embedded memory to serve mid-density digital designs. Configuration bitstreams are held in SRAM cells and must be loaded at power-up unless a configuration device or controller manages it. Key differentiators of the EP20K100QC240-2 include 4,160 logic elements, 189 user I/O, 53,248 RAM bits, 2.5 V core operation, and 240-pin BFQFP packaging. Distributor snippets identify 200 MHz internal operation, 3 ns propagation delay, and CMOS 0.22 µm process technology. These features suit designs that need more I/O and memory than a small CPLD but do not require the density of a modern large FPGA. The APEX-20K architecture uses a hierarchical interconnect scheme with LABs, embedded system blocks, and fasttrack routing. The EP20K100 variant contains 416 LAB/CLB blocks feeding 4,160 logic elements. The 240-pin package exposes 189 user I/O pins, leaving the remaining pins for power, configuration, and JTAG. Because this is an older part family, design entry is handled by the Altera/Quartus tool flow and the device is configured through Jam/STAPL or passive serial methods. Typical applications include networking equipment, industrial controllers, test-and-measurement front ends, and video bridging. The 189 I/O count can connect to multiple memory buses, data converters, or backplane interfaces; the 53,248 RAM bits provide small FIFOs and register files without external SRAM. The 2.5 V core allows operation in classic low-voltage boards. When designing with EP20K100QC240-2, remember that the 0°C to 85°C commercial temperature range constrains environmental use, and that the 2.375 V to 2.625 V core supply should be clean and well decoupled. I/O standards and VCCIO connections must match the external bus levels; verify these against the APEX-20K datasheet before layout. This page synthesizes verified web availability, speed-grade alternatives, pricing signals, and practical notes for the EP20K100QC240-2, complementing the original manufacturer datasheet.
EP20K100QC240-3 - 189 I/O APEX-20K FPGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K100QC240-3 is an APEX-20K family field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 4,160 logic elements, 189 user I/O pins, and 53,248 RAM bits, supplied in a 240-pin BFQFP package. It belongs to the 100K-gate-class APEX 20K family and is listed by DigiKey, Mouser, and Octopart with the speed-grade -3 designation. An FPGA is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric can be configured after manufacturing using a hardware description language and a bitstream. The FPGA sits above simple programmable logic devices (PLDs) in capacity and below structured ASICs in cost at high volume; it is the dominant product type for medium-density digital logic where time-to-market and reconfigurability matter. The EP20K100QC240-3 occupies that middle band: enough logic for bus interfaces and state machines, but not so many resources that a high-end FPGA is needed. Key specifications for the EP20K100QC240-3 include 4,160 logic elements, 189 user I/O pins, 53,248 RAM bits, and a typical gate count of 263,000. The core supply voltage is 2.5 V, the technology process is listed as 0.22 um, and the commercial temperature range is 0 to +85 °C. The package is a 240-pin BFQFP with gull-wing surface-mount terminals, which makes PCB layout straightforward for an older high-pin-count FPGA. Architecturally, the APEX 20K family combines LUT-based logic with embedded memory blocks. The 4,160 logic elements support combinatorial and register-intensive functions, while the 53,248 RAM bits provide on-chip FIFO or buffer storage that reduces external memory components. The 189 user I/Os allow multiple parallel buses, chip selects, and control signals to be connected directly to surrounding processors, ADCs, or bus transceivers. Typical applications for the EP20K100QC240-3 include protocol bridging in communications equipment, industrial control logic, image/interface glue logic, and test-and-measurement data paths. Because the core runs from 2.5 V, system power design must include a clean 2.5 V rail and appropriate I/O bank supplies. This is a legacy family, so designs should verify available speed files and tool support before production. A key design consideration is the -3 speed grade: if timing closure fails, the pin-compatible EP20K100QC240-2 or EP20K100QC240-1 can be used on the same PCB. Conversely, a design that meets timing comfortably can stay with the lower-speed -3 part. Because this is a mature device, decoupling and layout rules from the APEX 20K datasheet should be followed, including bulk capacitance on the 2.5 V core rail. This page synthesizes distributor listings, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design guidance that complement the manufacturer datasheet. It is intended for engineers maintaining APEX 20K legacy systems or evaluating existing stocked inventory.
EP20K100QC240-3N - 100K-Gate APEX-20K FPGA | Altera | Industrial
Altera EP20K100QC240-3N is an APEX-20K field-programmable gate array with 100,000 gates, 4,160 logic cells, 189 user I/O, and a 2.5 V supply, supplied in a 240-BFQFP package. The verified source describes a 240-pin, 1.27 mm-pitch BGA-format listing, while the distributor listings identify the physical package as 240-BFQFP; package naming and outline data should therefore be confirmed against the manufacturer package documentation before PCB release. The device is presented as a surface-mount FPGA for programmable digital logic implementations. A field-programmable gate array is a programmable semiconductor containing configurable logic blocks, routing resources, and programmable I/O elements. Unlike an application-specific integrated circuit, its logic functions and interconnections can be configured after manufacturing. FPGAs occupy the programmable-logic layer between fixed-function integrated circuits and software-driven processing, allowing hardware-level parallelism for communications, control, instrumentation, and embedded systems. The APEX-20K family combines programmable logic with architecture features intended for high-density system integration. The principal verified characteristics are 100,000 gates, 4,160 cells, 189 I/O pins, 53,248 bits of distributed memory, and a 416-macrocell listing in one distributor result. Additional search data identifies a 2.5 V supply range of 2.375 V to 2.625 V, a 0°C to 85°C operating range, and a 167 MHz device description. These values make the part relevant to designs requiring substantial programmable logic density and multiple external interfaces in a leaded 240-pin package. The architecture is a programmable logic device manufactured using a 0.15 µm all-layer copper-metal fabrication process according to the provided search result. The APEX-20K family is described as targeting system-level logic integration, but detailed configuration, timing, power, and I/O electrical characteristics are not included in the supplied web excerpts. Engineers should obtain the complete manufacturer datasheet and package information before implementation. Typical uses include telecommunications equipment, industrial automation, and consumer electronics, as identified by the supplied distributor and product listings. The 189 user I/O positions can support interfaces to memories, control peripherals, buses, and data-acquisition components. The 0°C to 85°C range supports commercial and controlled industrial environments, but operation in harsher temperature grades requires a separately qualified device. Designers must verify the exact package outline, pin assignment, voltage tolerance, clocking resources, configuration method, and timing limits from the official documentation. The supplied search data also contains an inconsistent BGA-652 description; that claim is not adopted here because the primary distributor and manufacturer search results identify a 240-BFQFP package. This page preserves the verified values, highlights source ambiguity, and supplies package-aware engineering guidance rather than inventing missing specifications.
EP20K100QC240-3V - APEX 20KE FPGA 100K Gates 189 I/O 240-BFQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K100QC240-3V is a member of the APEX 20KE programmable logic device family, delivering 100,000 system gates and 4,160 logic elements in a 240-pin Fine-pitch QFP (BFQFP) package. It features MultiCore architecture integrating look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory, with 53,248 bits of total RAM on-chip. The device operates on a 2.5V core supply (2.375V–2.625V), supports LVDS I/O, and provides 189 user I/O pins. What is an FPGA? An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor IC containing configurable logic blocks, interconnect, and I/O cells that engineers can program after manufacturing to implement custom digital circuits. FPGAs sit within the programmable logic hierarchy above CPLDs and below ASICs, offering higher density than CPLDs and lower NRE cost than ASICs. The APEX 20KE family specifically targets SOPC (System-On-a-Programmable-Chip) integration, combining LUT logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks in one fabric. Key features of the EP20K100QC240-3V include a -3 speed grade, 0.22 µm process technology, maximum operating frequency of 167 MHz, in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG, and support for multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, and LVDS. The MultiCore architecture lets designers place register-intensive logic in LUTs and combinatorial glue logic in product-term blocks, optimizing silicon efficiency for mixed datapath/control designs. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, high-speed datapath processing, DSP co-processing, glue-logic integration, and PCI bus interface bridging. The 53,248 bits of embedded memory can be configured as RAM, ROM, or FIFO, enabling single-chip implementation of state machines with on-chip buffering. When designing with this part, note that the -3V suffix indicates the device is lead-free and RoHS-compliant, while -3 alone denotes the standard lead-bearing variant. Both share the same 240-BFQFP footprint (32x32 mm) and identical die, so PCB layouts can accommodate either part. Designers should use the Quartus II design software (legacy) for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing closure.
EP20K100QI208-2 - APEX 20K FPGA, 208-PQFP, 159 I/O | Altera
The Altera EP20K100QI208-2 is an APEX-20K family SRAM-based FPGA/PLD that integrates 4,160 logic elements, 53,248 RAM bits, and 159 user I/Os in a 208-pin BFQFP (PQFP) package. This device is often described by distributors as an FPGA with APEX-20K architecture and as a field programmable gate array with embedded-system capabilities. It is intended for legacy designs that require a flexible programmable logic device with a large number of board-level I/O connections. A field programmable gate array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device containing configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnects, and embedded memory that can be programmed after manufacturing to implement digital circuits. FPGAs fit in the hierarchy FPGA -> programmable logic device -> integrated circuit -> electronic component. They are widely used for protocol bridging, video processing, industrial control, and ASIC prototyping because they allow hardware logic to be changed without spinning a custom chip. The APEX-20K family was one of Altera's early multi-core PLD architectures, combining look-up-table logic with embedded memory elements to support both gate-array style logic and system-level integration. Key features of the EP20K100QI208-2 include 4,160 logic elements, 53,248 total RAM bits, and 159 user I/O pins. The 208-pin BFQFP package has a square body, gull-wing terminals, and a 0.500 mm terminal pitch, which is well suited for surface-mount assembly on two-layer or multilayer PCBs. The component belongs to the APEX-20K programmable logic family and is functionally listed under embedded FPGAs. Its logic element and embedded-memory combination provides enough resources for medium-density logic designs, state machines, FIFO buffers, and parallel interface controllers. From a technical standpoint, the APEX-20K architecture embeds memory and product-term capability into a programmable fabric, giving designers flexibility to implement both register-intensive and combinatorial functions. Because the device is SRAM-based, it must be configured at power-up from an external configuration device, a host processor, or JTAG. Typical revision suffixes such as N indicate lead-free assembly, while C and I usually indicate commercial and industrial temperature grades respectively. For the exact core supply voltage, timing numbers, and thermal resistance of this exact ordering code, the Altera APEX-20K datasheet must be consulted because legacy distributor listings differ by variant. The EP20K100QI208-2 is applicable to telecommunications bridging, video/image capture interfaces, industrial machine control, test and measurement subsystems, and aerospace or ruggedized boards where multiple parallel buses need to be connected. Its 159 I/Os can interface to common memory devices, legacy ASICs, ADCs, DACs, and microprocessors with careful I/O standard planning. The 53,248 bits of embedded RAM are useful for small FIFOs, line buffers, and register files in these systems. When designing with this device, remember that configuration data is volatile; hold the configuration pin low until all supply rails are stable and provide a reliable configuration clock or JTAG chain. For new product designs, a modern FPGA is usually a better choice. This page is useful for legacy maintenance, bill-of-materials replacement, and industrial-temperature APEX-20K applications. It aggregates distributor links, drop-in family variants, and practical design notes that are not all repeated on the component manufacturer's datasheet.
EP20K100QI240-2 - APEX 20K FPGA 100K Gates 240-PQFP | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP20K100QI240-2 is an APEX 20K family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) with 100,000 typical gates, 4,160 logic elements, 53,248 RAM bits, and 189 user I/Os, housed in a 240-pin Power Quad Flat Pack (PQFP / BFQFP) package. It is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process with a 2.5 V core supply and supports system clock speeds up to 200 MHz. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that engineers can re-program in the field to implement arbitrary digital logic, glue logic, DSP pipelines, or even full soft processors. FPGAs occupy the upper tier of the programmable logic hierarchy (FPGA > CPLD > SPLD > PAL/GAL) and are widely used for prototyping ASICs, low-volume custom compute, hardware-accelerated signal processing, and interface bridging. The APEX 20K family was notable for introducing MultiCore™ embedded system blocks, allowing on-chip integration of dual-port RAM, CAM, or ROM. Key features of the EP20K100QI240-2 include 4,160 logic elements, 53,248 RAM bits, 189 user I/Os, propagation delay of approximately 1.6 ns, a maximum internal frequency of 200 MHz, and 4 dedicated inputs plus 4 global clocks. The 2.5 V core (with 3.3 V PCI-compliant I/O tolerance on selected banks) and 0.22 µm CMOS process deliver industry-leading density for its generation. Architecturally, the device integrates Look-Up Table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory in a single MultiCore fabric - a hybrid scheme that lets the designer place register-intensive datapaths in LUTs while implementing fast control logic in product terms. This MultiCore approach, combined with True-LVDS and PLLs, made APEX 20K a popular choice for high-speed telecom and DSP backplanes in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Typical applications include digital signal processing (DSP) front-ends, telecom protocol bridging, custom peripheral controllers for embedded systems, image-processing pipelines, and industrial control glue logic. The 189 user I/Os make it suitable for wide parallel buses connecting microprocessors, memory, and analog front ends. When designing with the EP20K100QI240-2, engineers should note that this device is part of the mature APEX 20K family and is recommended only for legacy maintenance and existing design support; new designs should target Cyclone, Arria, or Stratix families. Quartus II design software (legacy versions) is required for place-and-route. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives within the APEX 20K family, and practical design notes not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a single reference for sourcing and second-sourcing decisions.
EP20K100QI240-2N - 100K Gate APEX 20K FPGA | Altera
The Altera EP20K100QI240-2N is an APEX 20K family field-programmable gate array (FPGA) integrating approximately 100,000 system gates, 4,160 logic elements, and up to 53,248 RAM bits, with 200 MHz-class internal performance and a 2.5 V core, supplied in a 240-pin PQFP package. A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric can be configured after manufacturing, placing it along the programmable logic device hierarchy of FPGA -> programmable logic device -> integrated circuit. The EP20K100 uses Altera's MultiCore architecture, which combines look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory in a single device. That integration allows designers to implement register-intensive datapaths, wide combinational functions, and on-chip memory in one programmable component. Key verified features include the APEX 20K architecture, 4,160 logic elements, 100K system gates, 53,248 embedded RAM bits, 189 user I/Os, a 2.5 V nominal core supply, and a -2 speed grade. The -N suffix in this ordering code identifies the lead-free package variant used for RoHS-directed assembly. The PQFP-240 package has a 32 mm square body, 0.5 mm terminal pitch, and gull-wing terminals, allowing conventional fine-pitch surface-mount assembly. The device is manufactured on a 0.22 um CMOS process, with VCCINT specified at 2.5 V nominal and a verified operating range of 2.375 V to 2.625 V. According to distributor and datasheet data, the 240-pin package provides 189 user I/O and 4 dedicated inputs. This combination of logic density, memory bits, and package size makes the EP20K100QI240-2N suitable for moderate-complexity digital systems that need reprogrammable logic without migrating to a BGA package. Typical applications include communications line cards, industrial control boards, digital video equipment, and high-performance test instruments. The industrial temperature ordering option and lead-free finish make it attractive for rugged systems that must be assembled on lead-free production lines. The on-chip embedded memory reduces the need for external FIFO or SRAM components in many designs. When designing with this device, remember that the configuration SRAM is volatile. An external Altera configuration device such as EPC2 or EPC16, or a JTAG configuration host, is required to load the FPGA at power-up. Use adequate 0.1 uF and 1 uF decoupling capacitors near VCCINT pins and distribute the 2.5 V rail on a solid power plane to maintain reliable operation across the operating range. This page synthesizes verified distributor snippets, datasheet document references, same-family drop-in alternatives, and practical design guidance that is not repeated in the original APEX 20K datasheet, providing an information-gain resource for engineers evaluating obsolete APEX 20K inventory or replacement options.
EP20K100QI240-2V - FPGA APEX 20K 100K Gates | Altera
The Altera EP20K100QI240-2V is an APEX 20K field-programmable gate array (FPGA) offering approximately 100K system gates, 4,160 logic elements/cells, 189 user I/O, and 53,248 bits of embedded RAM. It is rated for 200 MHz maximum internal frequency, fabricated in 0.22 um CMOS technology for a 2.5 V core, and supplied in a 240-pin PQFP package described by DigiKey as 240-BFQFP. A field-programmable gate array is a programmable logic device whose logic function is defined after manufacturing by loading a configuration bitstream. In the FPGA hierarchy, the EP20K100 is a mid-density 100K-gate device that sits below million-gate FPGAs but above simple CPLDs. Altera introduced the APEX 20K family with a MultiCore architecture that integrates look-up table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and embedded memory blocks onto one device, making it suitable for system-on-a-programmable-chip designs. Key features from the captured listings include 100K gates, 4,160 logic elements/cells, 200 MHz internal frequency, 189 user I/O lines, 4 dedicated inputs, 53,248 RAM bits, and a nominal 2.5 V core supply with an operating range of 2.375 V to 2.625 V. The 240-pin PQFP package is identified as 240-BFQFP on distributor pages, and the part is built on a 0.22 um CMOS process. From an architecture perspective, the APEX 20K MultiCore fabric combines LUT-based logic for register-intensive functions, product-term logic for wide combinatorial functions, and embedded memory for FIFOs and RAM. These heterogeneous resources let the EP20K100QI240-2V perform tasks that would otherwise require multiple devices or an external controller. Because it is SRAM-based, the FPGA must be configured after power-up from an external nonvolatile source such as an EPC2 or EPC16 configuration device. The EP20K100QI240-2V is most practical in legacy telecom line cards, industrial control boards, test instruments, and broadcast or audio/video infrastructure where the existing PCB footprint and FPGA support already exist. The 189 I/O lines are sufficient for bus translation, simple FIFO interfacing, and glue logic, while the 2.5 V core reduces supply complexity compared with earlier 5 V programmable logic. For board bring-up, keep the core supply between 2.375 V and 2.625 V and decouple each supply region with ceramic capacitors. Connect the configuration device pins to standard APEX20K configuration signals and verify that the nCONFIG, nSTATUS, and CONF_DONE pins are pulled correctly. Since this FPGA is legacy, thoroughly screen date code and test samples before production use. This page synthesizes distributor listing data, cross-reference search results, drop-in replacement guidance, and practical design notes for the EP20K100QI240-2V in a way that is not repeated on a single manufacturer datasheet page.
EP20K100TC144-3 - APEX 20K 100K Gates FPGA 144TQFP | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP20K100TC144-3 is a member of the APEX 20K programmable logic device family, delivering 100,000 typical gates and 4,160 logic elements in a 144-pin TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) package. Built on a 0.22 µm CMOS process with 2.5 V core supply, this device is specified for a commercial operating temperature range of 0 °C to 85 °C and a maximum internal frequency around 167 MHz. The EP20K100TC144-3 provides 101 user I/O pins, MultiCore interconnect architecture, embedded system blocks (ESBs) for memory, and Look-Up Table (LUT)-based logic for high-integration designs. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be configured by the customer after manufacturing. FPGAs belong to the broader category of programmable logic devices (PLDs), which also includes CPLDs and SPLDs. Within the digital logic hierarchy, an FPGA sits above fixed-function ASICs in flexibility and below microprocessors in software programmability. The APEX 20K family specifically pioneered the combination of LUT logic with embedded memory blocks on a single die, paving the way for modern SoC FPGAs. Key features of the EP20K100TC144-3 include 4,160 logic elements, 100K typical gates, four embedded system blocks providing 53,248 RAM bits, 416 macrocells, a MultiCore interconnect routing fabric, and IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary-scan support. The device is in-system programmable via the IEEE 1532 / 1149.1 interface, allowing rapid prototyping and field upgrades. The TQFP-144 package (also referenced as 144-LQFP, body size approximately 20 × 20 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) provides 101 usable I/O lines with multiple I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and SSTL. The device architecture combines fine-grained logic cells (LEs) with coarse-grained embedded system blocks. Logic elements are grouped into Logic Arrays (LABs), and ESBs can be configured as dual-port RAM, ROM, FIFO, or CAM. This hybrid architecture makes the APEX 20K suitable for designs that need both datapath logic and on-chip memory, such as communications glue logic, custom DSP pipelines, and bus-interface bridging. Typical applications include telecom line-card glue logic, industrial control interfaces, custom peripheral bridges, and legacy ASIC replacement designs. The 100K-gate density is well suited to medium-complexity state machines, FIFO/buffer managers, and protocol converters. Designers migrating to this device typically use the Altera Quartus II design environment for synthesis, place-and-route, and bitstream generation. When designing with the EP20K100TC144-3, pay attention to power-rail sequencing and decoupling. The 2.5 V core and 3.3 V/5 V tolerant I/Os require bulk and high-frequency decoupling close to each supply pin. Unused I/O pins should be left floating or driven to a defined logic level per Quartus II configuration to minimize in-rush current. Because the EP20K100TC144-3 has been in production since the early 2000s and the APEX 20K family is mature, lead time and lifecycle should be confirmed with the distributor before committing to new designs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative guidance, and engineering design notes that complement the official datasheet.
EP20K100TC144-3N - APEX 20K FPGA, 100K Gates, 144-LQFP | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K100TC144-3N is a member of the APEX 20K family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) featuring 100,000 typical gates, 4,160 logic elements, and 53,248 bits of embedded memory in a 144-pin LQFP (TQFP) surface-mount package. It supports 101 user I/O pins and operates from a 2.5 V core supply using a 0.22 µm CMOS process technology, with system performance specified up to 167 MHz. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that integrates configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnects, and dedicated memory into a single semiconductor. FPGAs sit above simple PLDs/CPLDs in the programmable logic hierarchy and below fixed-function ASICs, offering hardware-level parallelism for high-throughput digital signal processing, glue logic, and bus interfacing. The APEX 20K family specifically combines look-up table (LUT) logic, embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory, and I/O elements in a unified architecture, and is widely regarded as one of the first true system-on-a-chip programmable logic families. Key features of the EP20K100TC144-3N include the speed grade "-3" indicating a specific timing bin, the "N" suffix denoting a lead-free / industrial temperature range, and the "TC144" package code identifying the 144-pin TQFP form factor. The device is part of an EOL product line and is targeted at industrial, telecom, and embedded computing applications where moderate logic density, on-chip RAM, and proven multi-vintage design support outweigh the need for the latest process node. The architecture employs LUT-based logic elements grouped into MegaLAB structures, with each MegaLAB containing 16 Logic Array Blocks and a single Embedded System Block providing up to 2 Kbits of dual-port RAM. Inter-MegaLAB routing is handled by a continuous FastTrack interconnect that supports both row and column paths, minimizing interconnect delay for high-fanout nets. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial control logic, legacy PCI bridge designs, peripheral controllers, and ASIC prototyping where a mature, well-documented device with decades of design support is preferred over newer families. The 144-LQFP package also enables hand-solderable prototypes and rework on standard 2-layer boards. When designing with the EP20K100TC144-3N, use the Quartus II design software (legacy versions 7.x–13.x) or MAX+PLUS II for older schematics, and verify all I/O assignments against the 144-pin TQFP pinout because several package variants exist within the same family. Note that this part is marked obsolete by Intel and is supplied primarily through authorized distributors of last resort - plan for end-of-life lifecycle management when using this device in new designs. This page synthesizes distributor stock levels, verified drop-in pin-compatible alternatives from the APEX 20K family, and practical design notes not collated in the original Altera datasheet, helping engineers both sustaining legacy designs and selecting next-generation replacements.
EP20K1500CB652C7ES - APEX 20KC 1.5M-Gate FPGA 488 I/O | Intel
The Intel EP20K1500CB652C7ES is a high-density APEX 20KC-series FPGA delivering 1,500,000 typical gates (51,840 logic elements) in a 652-pin BGA package with 488 user I/O pins. Built on a 0.18 µm CMOS process with embedded system-block (ESB) memory, it operates across commercial temperature ranges with a 7-speed-grade silicon. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a reconfigurable integrated circuit containing an array of programmable logic blocks, interconnect, and I/O cells that the user configures after manufacture. APEX 20KC FPGAs sit in Intel's high-density programmable logic hierarchy (FPGA -> programmable logic -> logic IC -> integrated circuit) and target designs that demand very large logic capacity combined with on-chip dual-port RAM. The 'C' device family is optimized for communications and DSP-style datapaths thanks to its ESB memory blocks. Key features include 51,840 logic elements, 216 Kb of embedded system block RAM, up to 488 user I/O pins supporting multiple I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, GTL+, HSTL, SSTL), and four phase-locked loops for clock management. The 652-BGA package supports high-pin-count designs while remaining suitable for high-volume SMT assembly, and the device is available in commercial (C), industrial, and military temperature grades. The APEX 20KC architecture combines a MultiCore architecture with embedded system blocks to deliver high throughput for datapath-intensive applications. ESBs can be configured as dual-port RAM, ROM, or first-in first-out (FIFO) buffers, eliminating external memory in many bus-interface and pipeline designs. True-LVDS and high-speed I/O support enables gigabit-rate serial links without external transceivers. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, network routers, high-speed image-processing pipelines, DSP co-processing accelerators, and military/aerospace signal-processing subsystems. The APEX 20KC also serves legacy industrial-control backplanes where firmware updates must roll forward without hardware changes. When designing with the EP20K1500CB652C7ES, account for JTAG boundary-scan testing, MultiVolt I/O banking, and the Quartus II design-flow legacy. New designs should weigh migrating to Stratix or Cyclone families; this part is best suited for sustaining legacy hardware or military programs with long lifecycles. This page synthesizes authorized distributor pricing, verified drop-in and speed-grade alternatives, and BGA-652 PCB layout guidance not collected in any single distributor page.
EP20K1500CB652C8ES - APEX 20KE FPGA 1.5M Gates 488 I/O | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K1500CB652C8ES is a high-density Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the APEX 20KE family, delivering approximately 1.5 million system gates, 51,840 logic elements, and 442,368 bits of embedded memory in a 652-ball BGA (BBGA) package measuring 45 x 45 mm. The device exposes 488 user I/O pins and operates from a 2.375 V to 2.625 V core supply, integrating Look-Up Tables (LUTs), Embedded System Blocks (ESBs) for memory, and a MultiCore architecture optimized for system-on-a-chip (SoC) designs. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and embedded memory, all controlled by a user-loaded bitstream. FPGAs occupy the same role in the digital hierarchy as ASICs but are reprogrammable, sitting between microcontrollers and fixed-function ASICs in flexibility. The APEX 20KE series specifically targets high-density logic integration, combining LUT-based logic with on-chip dual-port RAM to replace discrete logic, memory, and glue ICs on a single die. Key features of the EP20K1500CB652C8ES include a MultiCore interconnect that routes signals across the die with predictable timing, 4 embedded PLL-like clock management blocks, support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and GTL+ I/O standards, and in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG. The 488 user I/O pins make it well suited to bus-intensive designs, while the 442,368 bits of embedded RAM remove the need for external SRAM in many applications. The APEX 20KE architecture combines four-input LUTs, product-term logic, and Embedded System Blocks (ESBs) on a single die, allowing each region to be configured as either distributed logic or synchronous dual-port SRAM. This flexibility makes the EP20K1500CB652C8ES a workhorse for designers replacing multiple discrete ICs with one programmable device, particularly where board real-estate, EMI, and signal-integrity drive the design. Typical applications include telecommunications backplane switching, high-speed data-acquisition front ends, DSP co-processing pipelines, industrial motion control, ASIC prototyping, and PCI-bus bridging. The 652-ball BGA footprint also makes the part attractive for high-I/O designs where QFP packages would be pin-limited. When designing with this device, pay close attention to simultaneous-switching output (SSO) noise because 488 I/O at 2.5 V can induce significant ground bounce on a poorly decoupled PCB. Use at least six 0.1 uF plus four 10 uF decoupling capacitors distributed evenly under the BGA, and follow Altera's APEX 20KE pin-out guidelines for VCCINT and VCCIO plane splits. This page synthesizes distributor stock levels, same-package APEX 20KE family drop-in alternatives, and BGA-layout guidance not consolidated in the original Altera datasheet.
EP20K1500CF33C7 - APEX 20KC FPGA, 1.5M Gates, 1020-BBGA | Intel
The Intel EP20K1500CF33C7 is a high-density APEX 20KC family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) featuring 51,840 logic elements, 51,840 registers, and 442,368 typical gate count, housed in a 1020-ball BGA (BBGA) package. The device operates from a 1.8V core supply and is specified at the -7 speed grade, with integrated LVDS support and SRAM-based configuration memory. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a reconfigurable digital integrated circuit whose logic functions and interconnects are defined by a user-loaded configuration bitstream rather than at wafer fab time. APEX 20KC devices sit in the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLD) -> CPLD/FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> high-density logic + embedded memory. They are widely deployed in glue-logic, bus-bridging, DSP pre-processing, and high-speed data-path roles where discrete gate arrays would be uneconomical. Key features of the EP20K1500CF33C7 include 51,840 logic elements with embedded system blocks (ESBs) providing dual-port RAM, ROM, and CAM, multiple I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, GTL+, LVDS) on the 1020-BBGA package, dedicated clock management circuitry with up to four phase-locked loops, and a 1.8V core supply with separate VCCIO rails for I/O bank voltage selection. The -7 speed grade delivers the fastest commercial timing for the APEX 20KC family. The APEX 20KC architecture combines a MultiCore architecture with a continuous interconnect hierarchy, enabling predictable timing closure across large designs. Embedded system blocks (ESBs) deliver true dual-port RAM up to 32K x 36 bits per block, allowing designers to instantiate memory, FIFOs, and content-addressable memory without sacrificing logic capacity. The 1020-BBGA package exposes up to 808 user I/Os, supporting high pin-count bridging applications. Typical applications include high-speed telecommunications backplanes, video broadcast and image processing pipelines, ASIC prototyping and emulation, industrial control and instrumentation, and PCI/CompactPCI interface bridging. The combination of high logic density and embedded memory makes the EP20K1500CF33C7 a strong fit for designs that previously required multiple smaller FPGAs. When designing with this device, ensure that the Quartus II (or legacy MAX+PLUS II) toolchain is available, as later Quartus versions have dropped APEX 20KC support. Plan for a robust 1.8V core supply with adequate bulk decoupling, and verify signal-integrity on LVDS pairs given the large 1020-ball BGA fan-out. This page synthesizes distributor stock levels, drop-in alternatives in the same APEX 20KC family, and practical design considerations not found in the legacy datasheet alone.
EP20K1500CF33C7ES - APEX20K 1.5M Gates FPGA 1020-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K1500CF33C7ES is a high-density APEX20K family FPGA delivering up to 1,500,000 system gates with 51,840 logic elements/cells in a 1020-ball FineLine BGA package. It is part of Intel's mature programmable logic portfolio for high-performance digital design. The device operates from a 2.5V core supply with 3.3V I/O support and is rated for commercial temperature grades. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit whose logic function is defined by the user after manufacture, rather than at the fab. FPGAs sit hierarchically between ASICs (high NRE, fixed function) and CPLDs (lower density, fixed interconnect), and are commonly classified by LUT count, DSP block count, and on-chip memory. The APEX20K family from Intel/Altera is an early-generation SRAM-based LUT architecture that combines fine-grained logic with embedded memory blocks (ESBs), making it suitable for data-path, glue-logic, and DSP-style designs of its era. Key features of the EP20K1500CF33C7ES include 51,840 logic elements/cells, embedded system blocks (ESBs) for on-chip RAM, up to 808 user I/O pins, in-system programmability via JTAG, and support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and other I/O standards via Altera's Quartus II / MAX+PLUS II toolchain. The device also includes dedicated clock management circuits and a high-speed interconnect fabric (MultiTrack interconnect) for predictable timing closure across wide datapaths. The EP20K1500CF33C7ES utilizes a 0.18 µm CMOS SRAM process with 4-input LUTs and a hierarchical routing architecture, achieving typical internal clock rates of 100-180 MHz depending on design complexity. The embedded system blocks (ESBs) provide true dual-port RAM with parity, supporting FIFO and register-file patterns. Multiple I/O banks allow mixed-voltage interfacing across 2.5V, 3.3V, and 5V-tolerant buses. Typical applications include telecommunications infrastructure, industrial automation controllers, ASIC prototyping, high-speed datapath design, custom DSP engines, and legacy system upgrades where high gate count and abundant I/O are required. The 1020-BGA package supports high-density board layouts and is suited to multi-layer PCBs. When designing with this device, ensure the Quartus II design tool version supports the APEX20K family and that the 1020-ball BGA layout is matched to compatible footprint/IP. Plan power sequencing for the 2.5V VCCINT and 3.3V VCCIO rails to avoid I/O bus contention during configuration. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes for the EP20K1500CF33C7ES not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K1500CF33C8 - 1.5M Gates APEX FPGA 1020-FCBGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel PSG) EP20K1500CF33C8 is a high-density APEX 20K family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) fabricated on a 0.18 µm CMOS process with embedded system-block memory, packaged in a 1020-ball FineLine BGA (FCBGA) and graded for commercial temperature operation. Key headline parameters are 51,840 logic elements (cells), 1,500,000 typical system gates, and 442,368 embedded system block RAM bits, making it one of the largest APEX devices available in a single-package silicon solution of its era. The device is a member of the APEX 20K family, which pioneered the combination of look-up-table (LUT) logic with embedded memory blocks. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a type of integrated circuit that can be configured by the customer after manufacturing to implement arbitrary digital logic functions. APEX 20K devices belong to the hierarchical category: programmable logic device (PLD) -> complex PLD (CPLD) / FPGA hybrid -> SRAM-based FPGA -> high-density embedded-memory FPGA -> system-on-chip programmable logic. Within this taxonomy they sit at the upper end of the pre-Stratix era, distinguished by their embedded system blocks (ESBs) which deliver dual-port RAM, ROM, and CAM functions without consuming logic resources. Key differentiating features include the 1020-ball FCBGA package supporting up to 808 user I/O pins, in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG, multi-volt I/O standards (1.5V, 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V LVTTL/LVCMOS), four phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, and dedicated high-speed interconnect (FastTrack). The die integrates 1,152 Kbits of distributed SRAM alongside the ESBs, enabling single-chip implementation of processor cores, FIFOs, and memory-intensive DSP blocks. Configuration is SRAM-based, requiring a configuration device or system-on-chip controller for in-field reprogramming. Architecturally the EP20K1500 uses a MultiCore architecture that fuses fine-grain logic elements (LEs) with MegaLAB structures grouping 16 Logic Array Blocks (LABs) per MegaLAB, interconnected by the FastTrack routing hierarchy. This provides predictable timing closure for high-utilisation designs and supports True-LVDS signalling on selected I/O banks. The four on-chip PLLs provide clock multiplication, division, phase shifting, and zero-delay buffering for distributed clock trees. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, high-speed data-path designs, network switches, digital signal processing engines, and complex glue logic replacement on legacy backplane systems. Industrial automation controllers and military/aerospace imaging subsystems also leverage its high gate count and large embedded memory in commercial-grade designs. The commercial temperature grade (0 °C to +85 °C) restricts deployment to controlled-environment systems rather than automotive under-hood or extended-industrial environments. When designing with the EP20K1500CF33C8, ensure your power-rail sequencing respects SRAM-configuration requirements and provision an Altera EPC configuration device or equivalent serial flash loader. Use the Altera Quartus II design software (legacy support) for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing analysis, as modern Quartus Prime versions retain APEX 20K device support only as a legacy device family. Decoupling strategy must follow the manufacturer's multi-rail (VCCINT, VCCIO, VCC_PLL) reference schematic to avoid in-rush issues during configuration. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative sources, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone. All specifications are referenced against the Altera APEX 20K datasheet, distributor listings, and the XAIPART internal database as of 2026-09-07.
EP20K1500CF33C8ES - 1.5M Gate APEX FPGA 1020-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K1500CF33C8ES is an APEX 20KE-series programmable logic device delivering 1,500,000 system gates (2,392,000 maximum gates equivalent) in a 1020-ball FineLine BGA (33x33 mm) package with a -1 speed grade. The CF33 suffix in the part number indicates the 1020-FBGA package and operating temperature/grade code, while the C8 suffix indicates a -1 commercial speed grade and the ES suffix denotes an engineering sample tier. According to the Altera APEX 20K Family Data Sheet, the device integrates up to 51,840 logic elements, 442,368 embedded system block (ESB) RAM bits, and 216 Kbits of CAM, with 4 phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management. It also includes multiVolt I/O supporting 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V, and 5.0V interfaces for flexible mixed-voltage system integration. The part belongs to Intel's legacy APEX PLD family, originally launched by Altera in 1999 to bridge the gap between high-density FPGAs and gate-array ASICs. The APEX 20K (APEX means "Advanced Logic eXtended Elements and PLDs") introduced embedded system blocks to combine look-up-table logic and high-density RAM on a single fabric. Compared with traditional CPLDs, the APEX 20K provides greater capacity and finer logic granularity, while offering more deterministic timing than FPGAs of its generation. Architecturally, the APEX 20K combines embedded system blocks (ESBs) for memory and logic with logic array blocks (LABs), delivering 2,392,000 equivalent gates in this largest APEX 20K member. The device integrates four PLLs with eight clock pins, supports JTAG boundary-scan testing (IEEE 1149.1), and exposes an embedded processor bus interface for Nios soft-core or external microprocessor integration. Typical applications include telecommunications backplane bridges, high-density bus-interface glue logic, network switches with packet inspection, DSP front-ends, and legacy industrial-control replacements. As an engineering-sample part, the EP20K1500CF33C8ES is commonly used in pilot designs and prototype builds, then replaced by the production-grade EP20K1500CF33C8N variant once the design is validated. The 1020-FBGA package provides high I/O density at 33x33 mm board footprint, enabling complex system designs on compact PCBs. Designers migrating off APEX 20K should evaluate Cyclone IV/V or MAX 10 devices for new designs. This page synthesizes distributor stock, parametric data, same-package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original Altera datasheet.
EP20K1500CF33C9 - APEX 20K 1.5M Gates FPGA | Intel (Altera) | 1020-FBGA
The Intel (Altera) EP20K1500CF33C9 is a member of the APEX 20K family of SRAM-based field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) delivering approximately 1,500,000 system gates in a 1020-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA-1020, 33x33 mm) package. The device integrates logic elements (LEs), embedded system blocks (ESBs) configured as either memory or dedicated logic, and a high-bandwidth interconnect fabric in a single die, providing up to 432 Kbit of embedded memory and 212,992 logic elements per published family data. The part suffix '-9' denotes the speed grade and 'C' denotes the commercial operating temperature range (0C to +85C). An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and dedicated silicon resources such as block RAM and high-speed transceivers. APEX 20K belongs to the early-2000s multi-domain programmable logic hierarchy: FPGA -> programmable logic device (PLD) -> logic IC -> integrated circuit -> semiconductor. The APEX 20K family was one of the first to combine LUT-based logic, dedicated multiplier/adder blocks, and dual-port embedded SRAM on a single device. Key features include up to 1.5M system gates, embedded system blocks (ESBs) supporting dual-port RAM, ROM, CAM, and FIFO functions, multi-voltage I/O support (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, GTL+, HSTL, SSTL), in-system programmability via JTAG, and built-in Boundary-Scan (IEEE 1149.1). The FineLine BGA-1020 package offers high I/O density (808 user I/O pins) suitable for high-pin-count ASIC prototyping and multi-bus bridging designs. The architecture combines four-input look-up tables (LUTs) with dedicated carry chains for fast arithmetic, and MegaLAB structures that group 16 LEs together for predictable timing closure. I/O banks support multiple single-ended and differential standards, allowing direct interface to SRAM, SDRAM, and processor buses without external transceivers. Typical applications include ASIC prototyping, high-speed data-path glue logic, telecommunications line cards, networking equipment, DSP co-processing, and industrial control. The 33 mm package footprint with 808 user I/Os is well suited to designs that need wide parallel buses or many LVDS pairs. When designing with this device, verify power integrity using the Quartus PowerPlay early-power estimator and place decoupling capacitors within 100 mils of each power pin. Confirm signal-integrity simulations for HSTL/SSTL memory interfaces because the 33 mm BGA may require matched-length routing on inner stripline layers. This page synthesizes distributor stock and pricing data, drop-in alternatives from the APEX 20K and Stratix families, and practical design notes not collected on any single manufacturer page.
EP20K1500EBC652-1X - APEX 20KE 1.5M Gates FPGA | Altera | BGA-652
The Altera (Intel) EP20K1500EBC652-1X is an APEX 20KE family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) with 1.5 million system gates, 51,840 logic elements, and 442,368 bits of embedded memory, housed in a 652-ball FineLine BGA package. It operates at an internal frequency up to 400 MHz with a propagation delay of 1.84 ns and provides 488 user I/O pins for high-density logic and memory integration. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that combines configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnect, and I/O blocks into a semiconductor device. APEX 20KE sits within Altera's MultiCore architecture, which integrates look-up table (LUT) logic, embedded system blocks (ESBs) for memory, and product-term blocks in one fabric - this is the first device family marketed as a System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) solution, sitting within the broader taxonomy of FPGA -> programmable logic -> digital IC -> semiconductor. Key features include 3,456 Macros (logic cells), 488 user I/Os, on-chip RAM via embedded system blocks, MultiCore architecture combining LUT and product-term logic, JTAG-based configuration, and 0.22 µm CMOS process technology. The 1.8 V core supply minimizes power consumption while supporting high-speed signal processing in compute-intensive designs. The 652-ball BGA package supports industrial-grade thermal performance and high pin density. The APEX 20KE architecture integrates PLLs, memory, and logic in a single die, enabling designers to implement complex glue logic, bus interfaces, and DSP functions on one chip. The MultiCore structure allows portions of the fabric to behave as either fine-grained LUT logic or coarse-grained product-term logic, optimizing silicon for mixed control-and-datapath designs. Typical applications include telecommunications infrastructure, ASIC prototyping, high-speed data acquisition, industrial control systems, and network switching equipment. The 488 I/O count also makes it suitable for legacy interface bridging and high-bandwidth parallel processing. When designing with this device, ensure proper power-plane decoupling and thermal management for the large BGA - allocate at least 4-layer PCB with dedicated VCCINT and VCCIO planes. Quartus II software is required for synthesis, place-and-route, and timing analysis; design compilations can take significant runtime for full-fabric utilization. This page synthesizes distributor stock levels, drop-in alternatives within the APEX 20K family, and PCB-layout guidance not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet.
EP20K160EFC484-3 - 160K Gates APEX-20KE FPGA 316 I/O 484-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP20K160EFC484-3 is a member of the APEX-20KE FPGA family, delivering 160,000 system gates, 6,400 logic elements, and 81,920 bits of embedded memory in a 484-ball fine-pitch BGA (FBGA) package. It provides 316 user I/Os with MultiCore architecture that integrates look-up tables (LUTs), embedded system blocks (ESBs), and FastTrack interconnect fabric on a single 0.22 µm CMOS die, fabricated on a 1.8 V core process. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a reprogrammable logic device that allows engineers to implement custom digital circuits using configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnect, and dedicated I/O cells. FPGAs sit between standard logic ICs and ASICs in the design hierarchy, combining the flexibility of software-defined hardware with deterministic parallel performance. The APEX-20KE family specifically targets high-density System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) designs where on-chip memory, multipliers, and I/O density matter more than raw logic speed. Key features include 6,400 logic elements, 81,920 bits of RAM, 316 user I/O pins at speed grades supporting up to 323 MHz internal operation, 1.55 ns propagation delay, 0.22 µm process geometry, and 1.8 V core supply. The MultiCore architecture provides dedicated carry and cascade chains for arithmetic-intensive designs and four input LUTs for state-machine and datapath implementations. Embedded System Blocks (ESBs) provide dual-port RAM, ROM, and CAM functions in blocks up to 2,048 bits each. Typical applications include telecom line-card glue logic, custom bus-bridging interfaces, video processing pipelines, industrial control ASIC prototyping, and military/aerospace logic consolidation. The dense I/O count and high gate capacity make it suitable for designs that would otherwise require multiple smaller FPGAs or a costly ASIC conversion. When designing with this device, ensure that the 484-FBGA land pattern matches the PCB footprint exactly; signal-integrity simulation is recommended above 100 MHz I/O toggling rates. Verify the I/O bank supply sequencing at power-up because APEX-20KE devices require a specific VCCIO/VCCINT ramp profile for configuration reliability. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same APEX-20KE family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, helping engineers source and substitute this legacy FPGA.
EP20K160EQC208-3N - 160K Gates APEX 20KE FPGA, 208-PQFP | Altera
The Altera (Intel Programmable Solutions Group) EP20K160EQC208-3N is a member of the APEX 20KE family of field-programmable gate arrays, offering 160,000 system gates, 6,400 logic elements, and 143 user I/Os in a 208-pin PowerQuad Flat Package (PQFP/BFQFP). The device is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process and operates from a 1.8 V core supply, with MultiCore™ architecture that integrates a Look-Up Table (LUT) fabric, embedded system blocks (ESBs) for memory, and a high-performance interconnect. Per the Altera APEX 20KE datasheet, the maximum internal frequency is 323 MHz and the part is specified for the commercial 0 °C to 85 °C operating junction temperature range. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that allows designers to implement arbitrary digital logic through user-defined configuration rather than fixed silicon. Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, an FPGA sits under programmable logic -> programmable logic device -> logic IC -> integrated circuit. The APEX 20KE family is positioned for system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration, where multiple functional blocks are consolidated into a single device, eliminating the need for separate glue logic, memory, and interconnect chips. The "E" suffix denotes an enhanced variant of the original APEX 20K line, with extended embedded memory capacity and additional I/O standards. Key specifications of the EP20K160EQC208-3N include 81,920 bits of embedded memory, 640 macro cells, 143 user I/Os, and propagation delay of 1.55 ns. The "-3" speed grade indicates the slowest of three commercial speed grades offered in this family, while the "N" suffix indicates a lead-free / Pb-free assembly. The device supports in-system programmability through the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface and configuration via Altera's serial or parallel configuration schemes. The 208-BFQFP package provides a gull-wing surface-mount footprint with 143 usable I/O pins distributed around the periphery. Typical applications for the EP20K160EQC208-3N include telecommunications line cards, industrial control and automation systems, ASIC prototyping, glue-logic consolidation in legacy designs, and DSP co-processing. Because the part is mature and widely second-sourced in the secondary market, it is often found in long-lifecycle industrial, military, and aerospace programs that have already locked the design. Designers should note that the APEX 20KE family has been designated Obsolete by Intel PSG — new designs should consider Cyclone or MAX series devices. This page synthesizes distributor stock, second-source availability, drop-in speed-grade variants, and practical design notes that are not consolidated on a single manufacturer or distributor page. The intent is to give a procurement engineer or design-in engineer the complete picture in one read.
EP20K160EQC240-1X - APEX 20KE FPGA 160K Gates 6400 Cells | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K160EQC240-1X is a member of the APEX 20KE programmable logic family, integrating 160,000 system gates, 6,400 logic elements (cells), and 373 MHz internal performance into a 240-pin PQFP package. The device operates from a 1.8 V core supply, is fabricated on a 0.22 µm CMOS process, and exposes up to 175 (or 271, depending on package variant description) user I/Os with MultiCore architecture combining look-up-table (LUT) logic with embedded memory blocks. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that allows hardware engineers to implement custom digital circuits by configuring an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells. APEX 20KE belongs to the system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) family, positioned between classic PLDs and modern SoC FPGAs. It sits in the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices -> CPLD/FPGA -> PLD -> integrated circuit -> semiconductor. Key features include 160K gates, 6,400 cells, 373 MHz maximum internal frequency, 1.55 ns propagation delay, MultiCore architecture that integrates embedded system blocks (ESBs) for RAM/ROM, and an industry-first system-on-a-programmable-chip integration. The -1X speed grade indicates the slowest commercial speed bin, suitable for designs where timing margins are generous and cost is the primary driver. The 240-pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) package is gull-wing leaded, which simplifies prototype soldering compared to BGA. Typical applications include glue logic replacement, custom interface bridging (PCI, UART, I2C controllers), DSP co-processing front-ends, and embedded control blocks in industrial, telecom, and military systems. The wide I/O count supports parallel bus implementations and legacy peripheral aggregation. When designing with this FPGA, account for 1.8 V core supply decoupling with low-ESR ceramic capacitors near each VCC pin, and confirm that the Quartus II toolchain supports the APEX 20KE device family for bitstream generation. Note that the APEX 20K family is mature and largely NRND - verify long-term availability before new designs.
EP20K160EQC240-2 - APEX 20KE 160K Gates FPGA | Intel | QFP-240
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K160EQC240-2 is a member of the APEX 20KE family of SRAM-based programmable logic devices, integrating 160,000 typical gates and 6,400 logic elements (LEs) into a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP-240) package. It is one of the industry's first programmable logic devices (PLDs) to combine look-up table (LUT)-based logic with embedded system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration, featuring MultiCore architecture that links logic, memory, and I/O on a single fabric. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs/LEs) connected via programmable routing. APEX 20KE sits within the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLDs) and belongs to the high-density segment of that family, between older CPLD architectures (PAL/GAL derived) and modern SoC FPGAs. Its MultiCore structure is a predecessor to modern heterogeneous FPGA fabrics that combine logic, block RAM, and DSP blocks. Key features include a maximum internal frequency of 160 MHz, 175 user I/Os (up to 271 in higher-density package variants), 56 Kbytes of embedded system block (ESB) memory, four phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, and GTL+ I/O standards, and embedded JTAG (IEEE Std. 1149.1) boundary-scan circuitry. The 'E' suffix indicates enhanced I/O standards and the 'C240' suffix indicates the 240-pin PQFP package with commercial 0 to 85 C temperature grading. The APEX 20KE architecture combines a fine-grained logic fabric with coarse-grained embedded system blocks, allowing the device to be configured as logic, memory, or a mixture of both. The four PLLs reduce clock skew and support frequency multiplication and division across multiple clock domains, while dedicated high-speed I/O structures allow data rates up to 622 Mbps on LVDS or GTL+ links. The device is fabricated on a 0.18-micron CMOS process with six-layer metal interconnect. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, network switching fabrics, high-speed serial backplane interfaces, DSP preprocessing pipelines, and embedded control systems where deterministic hardware logic is required. The 622 Mbps LVDS capability also makes the EP20K160EQC240-2 suitable for SPI-4.2 (POS-PHY Level 4) and similar chip-to-chip interconnect standards. When designing with this device, ensure that the Quartus design tool (or MAX+PLUS II for legacy flows) supports the target APEX 20KE variant and that all I/O banks receive their reference voltages correctly for SSTL or GTL+ signalling. Configuration is typically performed via passive serial (PS), passive parallel synchronous (PPS), or JTAG programming using a serial configuration device such as the EPC2 or EPC16. This page synthesizes verified distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the APEX 20K/20KE family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
EP20K160EQC240-2X - APEX 20KE FPGA 160K Gates 240-PQFP | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP20K160EQC240-2X is a member of the APEX 20KE family of field programmable gate arrays, integrating 160,000 system gates with 6,400 logic elements in a 240-pin Power Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) package. The device is fabricated on a 0.22 um CMOS process and operates from a 1.8 V core supply with multi-voltage I/O support, delivering internal clock frequencies up to 350 MHz and propagation delays around 1.93 ns. What is a FPGA? A Field Programmable Gate Array is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that allows designers to configure digital logic blocks and interconnect after manufacturing. FPGAs sit in the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices: PLD -> CPLD -> FPGA -> SoC FPGA. They are widely used to implement custom digital signal processing, glue logic, bus interfaces, and high-speed parallel processing pipelines that would otherwise require discrete logic ICs or ASICs. The EP20K160EQC240-2X features the APEX MultiCore architecture combining look-up table (LUT)-based logic with embedded array blocks (EABs) for memory and arithmetic functions. It provides up to 271 user I/Os, 4 phase-locked loops, 345,600 bits of embedded memory, and supports in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface. The -2 speed grade indicates a mid-tier performance classification within the APEX 20KE product line. Typical applications include telecommunications backplane interfacing, custom DSP pipelines, industrial control glue logic, and legacy system prototyping. The 240-pin PQFP package enables socketed or hand-soldered assembly, which is preferred for prototype boards and legacy through-hole-friendly designs where BGA rework capability is limited. When designing with this part, note that 1.8 V core and I/O voltages require level-shifters when interfacing to 3.3 V or 5 V logic families. The MultiCore architecture also requires Quartus II (or MAX+PLUS II for legacy flows) for place-and-route, and configuration bitstream generation from Verilog or VHDL source. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original manufacturer datasheet. Engineers migrating designs from older Altera tools should review the Quartus II device support notes before recompiling existing APEX 20KE projects.
EP20K160EQC240-3 - APEX 20K 160K Gates FPGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP20K160EQC240-3 is a member of the APEX 20K family of FPGAs, integrating 160,000 typical gates (approximately 404,000 maximum system gates) with up to 640 macrocells and 175 user I/O pins in a 240-pin PowerQuad Flat Pack (QFP) package. It combines look-up table (LUT)-based logic, embedded system blocks (ESBs) for memory, and a MultiCore architecture for high-density programmable logic on a single die. The device operates from a 1.8 V core supply with multi-voltage I/O support. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that engineers configure after manufacturing to implement custom digital circuits. FPGAs sit hierarchically under programmable logic -> PLD -> digital IC -> semiconductor. The APEX 20K family was a landmark multi-vendor-compatible architecture (jointly defined by Altera and competitor devices in the same era) that merged gate-array density with on-chip memory, making it suitable for system-on-chip prototyping, glue logic, and DSP preprocessing blocks before modern System-on-Chip FPGAs took over. Key features of the EP20K160EQC240-3 include 640 macrocells / 4,160 logic elements, 160 K typical gates, 175 user I/O pins, embedded system blocks totaling approximately 53,248 RAM bits, and support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, HSTL, and PCI I/O standards via dedicated I/O banks. The device is fabricated on a 0.18 µm CMOS process and supports in-system programmability through the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface plus a passive serial configuration port. Speed grade -3 indicates the slowest of the APEX 20K commercial speed grades; speed grade -1 and -2 variants offer faster timing closure at higher cost. The MultiCore architecture interleaves LUT logic with embedded array blocks, allowing designers to implement wide datapaths, FIFOs, and dual-port RAM without consuming general-purpose routing. The 240-pin QFP package provides gull-wing leads for surface-mount assembly, and the 175 available I/Os (versus 240 package pins) reflect the die-to-package I/O ratio typical of the APEX 20K EQC-series. Typical applications include telecommunications line cards, industrial control and factory automation, ASIC prototyping, glue logic replacement, embedded DSP preprocessing, image and video processing front-ends, and legacy system upgrades where designers port older gate-array designs onto a programmable platform. The 1.8 V core and 3.3 V/2.5 V I/O compatibility make it straightforward to bridge legacy 5 V tolerant buses through external resistors. The APEX 20K family is now in end-of-life status, so this part is mainly sourced through distributors stocking legacy inventory. Designers should note that APEX 20K is supported by the legacy Altera Quartus II design software (versions up to 13.0sp1). Modern Quartus does not support this device. When designing, ensure the JTAG chain configuration matches IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan requirements and that the VCCIO of each bank is set correctly to match the connected bus voltage. Unused I/O pins should be left floating or driven per the Quartus II device handbook to avoid leakage during in-circuit testing. This page synthesizes distributor stock levels, drop-in alternatives, and design-software constraints not typically covered in the bare datasheet — useful information gain for engineers maintaining legacy APEX 20K systems.