FPGA & CPLD
Produtos (6666)
EP1C6F25617L - Cyclone FPGA 6K LE, 256-BGA, 1.7V | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP1C6F25617L is a member of the original Cyclone FPGA family, offering 5,980 logic elements in a 256-pin FineLine BGA package with a -7 speed grade and low-voltage (L) variant. It is a low-cost SRAM-based programmable logic device designed for high-volume, cost-sensitive applications where traditional ASIC development is not economically justified. The device operates with a core voltage of 1.7V (the L suffix designates this lower-voltage variant compared to the 1.8V standard), paired with a 3.3V I/O supply. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of integrated circuit containing configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnects, and dedicated I/O cells that the designer can reconfigure after manufacturing. FPGAs sit between discrete logic ICs and full custom ASICs in the design hierarchy: logic IC -> programmable logic -> FPGA -> ASIC. Cyclone family FPGAs target glue-logic, bus bridging, and DSP pre/post-processing rather than high-end signal processing. Key features of the EP1C6F25617L include up to 90 Kbits of embedded RAM distributed across M4K blocks, two PLLs for clock management and frequency synthesis, and 185 user I/O pins. The 256-ball FineLine BGA package supports high I/O density in a compact footprint suitable for multi-layer PCBs with controlled-impedance routing. The Cyclone architecture uses a 1.5V internal core with on-chip voltage regulation. Typical applications include consumer electronics glue logic, video processing pipelines, industrial control interfaces, communications protocol bridging (UART, SPI, I2C to parallel buses), and educational/hobbyist development platforms. The Cyclone series was widely adopted in early 2000s digital design courses and remains in legacy equipment requiring long-term support. When designing with this part, note that configuration is typically loaded from an external EPC serial configuration device via the active serial (AS) or JTAG interface. A reset circuit and proper decoupling are required for reliable operation. The 256-FBGA package requires X-ray or BGA rework equipment for prototyping, so many designers use the EP1C6Q240 variant in QFP for easier hand assembly. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, package-compatible alternatives from the Cyclone family, and practical design notes not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C6F25617N - Cyclone FPGA 6K LEs 185 I/O FBGA | Altera
The Altera EP1C6F25617N is a member of the first-generation Cyclone FPGA family, delivering 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA-256) package. It is built on a 0.13 µm SRAM-based CMOS process and supports industrial-grade operating temperatures from -40 °C to +85 °C, with a speed grade of 7. The device integrates two PLLs and provides 13 M4K RAM blocks, making it suitable for cost-sensitive high-volume logic integration across embedded, industrial, and communications designs. What is an FPGA? A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device whose digital logic functionality is defined after manufacture by loading a user-supplied configuration bitstream into on-chip SRAM. FPGAs sit in the programmable-logic hierarchy between small CPLDs (limited gates, non-volatile) and ASICs (high NRE cost, fixed function). The Cyclone family is positioned as a low-cost, high-volume FPGA, optimized for glue logic, bus bridging, and modest DSP workloads rather than the highest logic density or transceiver performance. Key features of the EP1C6F25617N include 5,980 logic elements with embedded multiplier support via Quartus II synthesis, 92 Kbits of embedded RAM organized as M4K blocks (4 Kbit + 512 parity bits each), and two general-purpose PLLs with up to four output taps per PLL for clock synthesis and skew management. The device supports LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and HSTL I/O standards and provides dedicated DDR SDRAM interfaces at up to 133 MHz. Configuration is supported through JTAG, Passive Serial (PS), and Active Serial (AS) modes using low-cost Altera configuration devices. Typical applications span industrial control and factory automation glue logic, low-cost video processing pipelines, point-to-point serial protocol bridging (UART, SPI, I2C, parallel bus), consumer electronics display controllers, and education/development platforms where cost and Quartus II toolchain familiarity dominate the decision. The 185 single-ended (or 92 differential-pair) user I/O pins provide substantial board-level connectivity for sensor aggregation and peripheral expansion. When designing with the EP1C6F25617N, observe the recommended decoupling scheme (0.1 µF at every VCC pin plus bulk 47 µF tantalum) and follow Altera's FBGA-256 land pattern with 1.00 mm ball pitch. Decoupling should use short, wide traces from each VCC/VCCIO pair to the nearest ground via. Since configuration is volatile SRAM-based, the FPGA must be reconfigured at every power-up via JTAG or an external configuration PROM such as EPCS4 or EPCS16.
EP1C6F256C2 - Cyclone FPGA 6K LE, 256-BGA, 1.5V Core | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6F256C2 is a member of the first-generation Cyclone FPGA family fabricated on a 0.13 µm SRAM process. The device integrates 5,980 logic elements (LEs), 92,160 RAM bits organized as 20 M4K memory blocks, and two phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management. It is housed in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package (F256) measuring 17 mm × 17 mm with a 1.0 mm ball pitch, offering high I/O density in a compact surface-mount footprint. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that contains an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and configurable I/O cells, all of which can be reconfigured after manufacture to implement custom digital circuits. Within the broader taxonomy, an FPGA sits alongside CPLDs as a digital logic IC family, above fixed-function ASICs in flexibility, and under the wider semiconductor hierarchy as a member of programmable logic devices (PLDs) > digital ICs > integrated circuits. The Cyclone family specifically targets low-cost, high-volume applications requiring moderate logic density and high I/O count. Key features of the EP1C6F256C2 include support for up to 185 user I/O pins, multi-standard I/O support including LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and LVDS, dedicated dual-purpose configuration pins, and an on-chip PLL with four clock outputs. The device supports both passive serial (PS) and JTAG configuration modes via Altera's Quartus II / Quartus Prime design software, and it operates from a 1.5 V core supply with separate VCCIO banks for I/O voltage flexibility (1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, or 3.3 V). The Cyclone architecture is built around four-input look-up tables (4-LUTs) feeding carry chains and register chains, with embedded M4K memory blocks capable of true dual-port operation at 200 MHz. The two PLLs provide clock multiplication, division, phase shifting, and duty-cycle control. Compared with newer Cyclone generations (II, III, IV, V), the original Cyclone offers lower LE count and no dedicated DSP blocks, but it remains widely deployed in cost-sensitive designs such as industrial control, video processing, and bridge applications. Typical applications for the EP1C6F256C2 include glue logic replacement, custom peripheral interfaces, low-cost video processing pipelines, I/O expansion and bus bridging, and educational / prototyping platforms. It is commonly used as a co-processor in embedded systems where microcontrollers lack sufficient I/O bandwidth or processing parallelism. When designing with this device, note that the F256 BGA package requires careful PCB layout: a minimum 4-layer stack-up with controlled-impedance traces is recommended, and the 1.0 mm ball pitch demands precise reflow profiling. Unused I/O pins should be left floating or tied to a defined logic level per Quartus pin assignment guidance. This page synthesizes distributor availability, same-brand drop-in variants (different speed/temperature grades), and practical design guidance not found in the original Cyclone family datasheet, giving procurement and design engineers a single-page decision reference.
EP1C6F256C6 - Cyclone FPGA 6K LEs, 185 I/O, 256-FBGA | Intel
The Intel EP1C6F256C6 is a member of the original Cyclone FPGA family, featuring 5,980 logic elements, 185 user I/O pins, and 92,160 bits of embedded RAM in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package. Built on a 0.13 µm SRAM-based process, it operates with a core voltage of 1.5 V and supports commercial junction temperatures from 0 °C to 85 °C. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that engineers can reconfigure after manufacturing to implement custom digital logic. FPGAs sit hierarchically between fixed-function ASICs and software-driven microcontrollers: they offer ASIC-class parallelism and throughput while retaining the flexibility of in-system reprogrammability. The Cyclone family specifically targets cost-sensitive, high-volume applications where the goal is to replace multiple discrete logic ICs with a single programmable device. Key features of the EP1C6F256C6 include two Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs) for clock management, dedicated DDR SDRAM memory interfaces, support for multiple I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, LVDS), and a low-cost 256-pin FBGA package measuring 17 mm × 17 mm. The device also provides a JTAG-based configuration interface and supports serial configuration via EPCS configuration devices, enabling simple in-field firmware updates. The Cyclone architecture uses a 4-input Look-Up Table (LUT) structure combined with embedded multiplier blocks and M4K memory blocks. Each M4K block supports true dual-port operation at up to 200 MHz, making the EP1C6F256C6 suitable for data-path and DSP-oriented glue logic. Two PLLs provide frequency synthesis, phase shifting, and clock de-skew for synchronizing external memory and high-speed peripherals. Typical applications include digital signal processing front-ends, video bridging and image processing glue logic, industrial control and machine networking (Profibus, CAN, Ethernet MAC), serial protocol bridging (UART, SPI, I2C aggregation), and low-cost prototype ASIC replacement. The wide I/O count (185) makes the EP1C6F256C6 particularly attractive for board-level integration tasks where many glue-logic functions would otherwise require multiple CPLDs. When designing with this device, ensure proper decoupling (100 nF + 10 µF near each supply pin) and follow Altera's configuration guidelines for the 256-FBGA. The 'C6' speed grade offers a balance between logic performance and cost; faster 'C7' / 'C8' grades are available for timing-critical designs, while the 'I' suffix denotes an industrial temperature variant. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the standalone datasheet.
EP1C6F256C6N - Cyclone 6K LEs FPGA, 185 I/O, FBGA-256 | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6F256C6N is a Cyclone family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) with 5,980 logic elements, 185 user I/O pins, and 92,160 bits of embedded RAM, packaged in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA-256). It is built on a 1.5 V core, 0.13 µm SRAM-based process and is offered in the commercial speed grade 6 with lead-free, RoHS-compliant packaging (the 'N' suffix). An FPGA is a reconfigurable integrated circuit whose logic fabric, interconnect, and I/O can be programmed by the designer after manufacture. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable-logic hierarchy alongside CPLDs (smaller, non-volatile) and ASICs (custom, non-reprogrammable). The Cyclone family is Intel's low-cost, high-volume line, optimized for ASIC replacement, glue logic, and digital signal processing rather than maximum logic density or transceiver performance. Key features of the EP1C6F256C6N include 5,980 LEs, 92 Kbits (92160 bits) of embedded RAM arranged in M4K blocks, two phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, and 185 user I/Os supporting LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and differential I/O standards. The device supports up to 3.3 V I/O tolerance and operates from a 1.5 V core supply. The architecture combines 4-input look-up tables (LUTs), embedded memory blocks, and routing fabric on a single die. Designers configure the device via SRAM configuration cells, allowing unlimited re-programming in-system through JTAG or active serial configuration. The two PLLs support clock multiplication, division, and phase shifting for multi-clock domain designs. Typical applications include digital signal processing front-ends, industrial control and motor drives, video and image processing pipelines, communications protocol bridging, ASIC prototyping, and embedded controller glue logic. The 185 user I/Os allow direct interfacing to external DDR/DDR2 memory, parallel ADCs/DACs, and high-speed parallel buses. When designing with the EP1C6F256C6N, observe decoupling guidelines: place 0.1 µF capacitors adjacent to every VCCINT/VCCIO pin and a bulk 33 µF tantalum on each supply rail. The JTAG chain must be terminated with a 10 kΩ pull-up on TCK per IEEE 1149.1 to avoid spurious configuration. Pin-compatible drop-ins within the Cyclone family allow cost optimization without PCB rework. This page consolidates distributor pricing, drop-in compatible alternatives from the Cyclone family and competing lines, and practical design notes not aggregated elsewhere.
EP1C6F256C6NGA - Cyclone FPGA 6K LE 256-FBGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6F256C6NGA is a member of the Cyclone® family of low-cost FPGAs, delivering 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA) package. Built on a 0.13 µm SRAM process, the Cyclone EP1C6 targets high-volume, cost-sensitive applications where designers need programmable logic without paying ASIC NRE costs. The C6 speed grade at commercial temperature (0 °C to +85 °C) and the N suffix denoting lead-free termination complete the standard ordering code. What is an FPGA? A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor device whose logic fabric, interconnect, and I/O cells are defined after manufacture by loading a user-supplied configuration bitstream into on-chip SRAM. FPGAs sit in the wider taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLD), alongside CPLDs (Complex PLDs), and offer far higher logic density, embedded memory blocks, DSP blocks, and high-speed transceivers on larger parts. The Cyclone family occupies the low-cost end of this hierarchy, optimized for parallel glue logic, custom bus interfaces, and modest DSP pipelines rather than the multi-million-LE density of Stratix or the SERDES-rich Arria series. Key features of the EP1C6F256C6NGA include two PLLs for clock multiplication and phase shifting, embedded multiplier blocks supporting 18×18-bit operations, support for LVDS, LVTTL, SSTL, and PCI I/O standards, and Quartus II / Quartus Prime design-software compatibility. The 256-FBGA package provides a compact footprint suitable for space-constrained boards while exposing all 185 user I/Os for maximum connectivity. Configuration can be loaded from a passive serial (EPCS) or JTAG source, enabling rapid prototyping and in-system reprogramming. The Cyclone EP1C6 architecture is built around four logic-array blocks per LAB, with each LE containing a 4-input look-up table (LUT), a programmable register, and a carry chain for arithmetic operations. The embedded M4K memory blocks (each 4 Kbit plus parity) are arranged in columns, totaling 20 blocks (92,160 RAM bits), which can be configured as single- or dual-port RAM, ROM, or shift registers. PLLs support clock multiplication, division, phase shifting, and external feedback for zero-delay buffering of high-speed clocks. Typical applications include industrial control and motor drive interfaces, telecom line-card glue logic, low-cost video processing, consumer electronics display controllers, and legacy parallel bus bridging. The Cyclone EP1C6 is particularly well suited for designs migrating from small CPLDs that have outgrown their logic capacity but do not require high-end transceiver-equipped FPGAs. When designing with the EP1C6F256C6NGA, allocate a generous ground and power plane under the BGA and use at least four dedicated configuration and JTAG pins. The 1.5 V core voltage requires a separate regulator, and the JTAG chain must be accessible for in-system programming. Plan configuration memory carefully — the EP1C6 does not retain configuration on power-down, so an external EPCS configuration flash is required for stand-alone boot. This page synthesizes Intel/Altera Cyclone family documentation, distributor pricing from DigiKey and Octopart (as of 2026-09-06), same-family drop-in alternatives with matched F256 FBGA packages, and practical design notes not found in a single manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C6F256C7 - Cyclone FPGA, 5980 LEs, 185 I/O, 256-FBGA | Altera
The Altera (Intel) EP1C6F256C7 is a member of the first-generation Cyclone FPGA family fabricated on a 130nm process, offering 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/Os in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package with a -7 speed grade rated up to 320.1 MHz internal operation. It is a low-cost, SRAM-based programmable logic device targeting high-volume, cost-sensitive applications. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells that can be reconfigured by the end user after manufacturing. FPGAs occupy the middle ground between fixed-function ASICs and software-driven processors: they deliver hardware-level parallelism and deterministic latency for glue logic, protocol bridging, and signal processing while still allowing in-field design changes. Within the programmable logic taxonomy, the Cyclone family sits below the high-end Stratix tier and above CPLDs, optimized for cost-per-logic-element rather than maximum performance. Key specifications of the EP1C6F256C7 include 5,980 LEs, 92,160 embedded RAM bits organized across 20 M4K memory blocks, two PLLs for clock management, and 185 user I/Os supporting LVCMOS, LVTTL, SSTL, and LVDS signaling. The -7 speed grade delivers higher Fmax than the -6 or -8 grades, making the C7 variant the preferred choice when timing closure is critical. Core voltage is 1.5V with dedicated PLL analog supply pins. The device is built on a 130nm SRAM process with a 1.5V core, which is the same silicon die shared across all Cyclone I speed grades. Designers using this part must configure it at every power-up from an external EEPROM or flash memory because the SRAM configuration cells are volatile. The 256-ball FBGA package exposes four dedicated clock input pins and supports JTAG-based boundary-scan test as well as passive or active serial configuration modes. Typical applications include consumer video processing, industrial control and machine interfaces, telecom line cards, USB and PCI interface bridging, motor control, and prototype ASIC replacement. The Cyclone architecture's embedded multipliers (though limited on EP1C6) and rich memory make it suitable for DSP preprocessing and FIFO buffering in embedded systems. A key design consideration is that the EP1C6F256C7 has reached end-of-life status and is no longer recommended for new designs; Lattice ECP5 or Intel Cyclone IV E/IV GX equivalents in modern packages offer lower power, higher logic density, and improved tool support. Existing designs should plan for last-time-buy sourcing. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible drop-in alternatives, and practical FPGA migration notes not assembled in the original manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C6F256C7N - Cyclone FPGA 5980 LE 256-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP1C6F256C7N is a Cyclone-series Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) delivering 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package. Built on a 1.5 V core, 0.13 µm all-layer copper SRAM process, the device targets mid-density logic integration with on-chip RAM and configurable I/O standards, addressing data-path, memory-interface, and system-control designs at a low unit cost. The 'C7' speed grade denotes a commercial temperature rating (0C to +85C) with a pin-compatible -7 timing closure. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device built around an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory, and programmable routing that the designer implements after fabrication. FPGAs sit within the broader hierarchy of programmable logic devices (PLD) -> FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> low-cost FPGA family. Compared with ASICs, FPGAs offer rapid prototyping, in-field re-programmability, and NRE-free development at the expense of unit cost and static power. The Cyclone family specifically targets cost-sensitive volume applications by trimming high-speed transceivers and emphasizing logic density per dollar. Key features of the EP1C6F256C7N include 5,980 logic elements (LEs), 92,160 total RAM bits distributed across M4K memory blocks, two PLLs for clock multiplication and phase shifting, and 185 user I/O pins supporting LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and differential I/O standards. The device supports up to four Delay-Locked Loops for source-synchronous memory interfaces such as DDR SDRAM. Configuration is loaded through passive serial (PS), active serial (AS), or JTAG modes, enabling flexible boot from EPCS configuration flash. The Cyclone architecture uses a 4-input look-up table (LUT) per logic element, with embedded multiplier support implemented in soft logic for low DSP workloads. Internal signal integrity is maintained through a hierarchical routing architecture with predictable timing closure at the -7 speed grade. Static power is minimized by the 1.5 V core, while dynamic power scales with toggle rate and clock frequency. The 256-FBGA package provides a compact 17 mm x 17 mm footprint suitable for space-constrained embedded boards. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation, video processing pipelines, motor control and motion drive interfaces, low-cost prototyping for ASIC replacement, and glue-logic consolidation around processors. The Cyclone family is widely used in display controllers, telecom line cards, and test-and-measurement front-ends where 5K-10K LE designs dominate. When designing with this device, ensure that your Quartus II project targets the EP1C6Q256C7 device symbol, that the I/O bank voltages match the chosen standard, and that the configuration flash (EPCS4 or EPCS16) is sized for the .pof file. Note that the EP1C6 series is mature; lead times can vary and the part is increasingly sourced through brokers for new designs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in Cyclone-family alternatives, and Quartus II configuration guidance not found in a single distributor product page.
EP1C6F256C7NAB - Cyclone FPGA, 6K LEs, 256-BGA | Intel/Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) Cyclone EP1C6F256C7NAB is a low-cost, low-power SRAM-based Field-Programmable Gate Array built on a 1.5V, 0.13 µm process, providing 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/Os in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package. It belongs to the original Cyclone family introduced in 2003 as the industry's lowest-cost FPGA family for high-volume applications such as digital signal processing, embedded control, and communications. The -C7 speed grade denotes a commercial temperature range of 0C to +85C with a balanced timing/power profile. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit that can be electrically reconfigured by the customer after manufacturing. FPGAs sit above microcontrollers and ASICs in the digital logic hierarchy, providing high parallelism, deterministic timing, and hardware-level customization. The Cyclone family specifically targets cost-sensitive, high-volume markets - it integrates embedded multipliers, embedded memory, and a Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) clock network into a single homogeneous logic fabric, eliminating the need for external complex logic or memory components in many designs. Key features include two PLLs for clock management and frequency synthesis, embedded 18×18 multipliers suitable for DSP blocks, distributed and block RAM, and support for common I/O standards such as LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and LVDS. The 256-pin BGA package provides high I/O density within a compact 17×17 mm footprint, making it suitable for space-constrained designs. Configuration can be performed via JTAG, Active Serial (AS), or Passive Serial (PS) modes, supported by the Quartus II development toolchain. Architecturally, the Cyclone FPGA uses a four-input Look-Up Table (LUT) based logic element with embedded RAM and full-routing interconnect, optimized for the Quartus II tool flow. The C7 speed grade offers typical toggle rates up to 250 MHz for general logic, with deterministic logic utilization suitable for control-plane and data-plane bridge applications. Typical applications include industrial control interfaces, video and image processing pipelines, low-cost digital signal processing boards, communications protocol bridges, and high-volume consumer electronics requiring flexible logic. It is also widely used as a glue-logic replacement for multiple discrete CPLDs and standard logic ICs in legacy designs. When designing with this part, engineers should note that the original Cyclone family uses 1.5V core voltage (VCCINT) with separate VCCIO bank supplies. The 256-FBGA requires PCB design rules with controlled impedance routing and clean power decoupling. Configuration memory must be loaded at every power-up; this part supports both serial and JTAG programming. This page synthesizes distributor inventory, parametric comparison versus same-family Cyclone variants, and practical design notes not found in a single manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers evaluate EP1C6F256C7NAB for both new designs and legacy board sustainment.
EP1C6F256C8 - Cyclone FPGA 5980 LE, 185 I/O | Altera
The Intel (Altera) EP1C6F256C8 is a low-cost Cyclone-family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 bits of embedded RAM, and 185 user I/O pins in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA) package. It is an SRAM-based programmable logic device intended for parallel processing, bus interfacing, and hardware acceleration in embedded systems. An FPGA is a digital integrated circuit whose logic fabric is configured after manufacturing. Unlike fixed-function ASICs, an FPGA contains programmable lookup tables, routing, and I/O buffers; users describe logic in HDL and program it via a configuration bitstream. FPGAs occupy a flexible position between processors and ASICs, providing low-to-moderate parallelism, low NRE, and field revision capability. Key verified characteristics of the EP1C6F256C8 are 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 total RAM bits, 185 user I/O pins, and a reported clock operation speed of 275.03 MHz. The device belongs to the original Altera Cyclone family, is offered in a 256-ball BGA package with speed grade 8, and uses supply and I/O planes typical of first-generation low-cost FPGAs. The Cyclone architecture is built around SRAM configuration cells, logic array blocks, embedded memory columns, and programmable I/O buffers. Because the device is SRAM-based, the FPGA must be configured at system power-on from an external configuration device or from a host using JTAG or passive serial schemes. Designers should include configuration logic in the system plan. Typical applications for the EP1C6F256C8 include industrial motor control, protocol conversion, smart display processing, test equipment, and data acquisition. The 185 available user I/O pins support parallel microprocessor buses, memory interfaces, and multi-channel UART or SPI implementations when combined with soft intellectual property. One key design consideration is that the FPGA is volatile: an external configuration memory or host download path is required at every power-up. For designs operating near 275 MHz, careful power-supply decoupling, controlled impedance routing, and a clean ground/power plane stackup are recommended for reliable BGA operation. This XAIPART component page aggregates verified distributor specifications, current pricing, drop-in Cyclone alternative speed and temperature variants, application guidance, and practical design notes that are not all repeated in a single datasheet view, helping engineers make a faster and more confident FPGA sourcing decision.
EP1C6F256C8N - Cyclone FPGA 6K LE 256-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6F256C8N is a Cyclone-series Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) built on a 1.5 V core, 0.13 µm SRAM process, offering 5,980 logic elements (LEs) and 92,160 RAM bits in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA-256) package. The device is specified for the commercial temperature range (0 °C to +85 °C) and is speed-grade 8. It provides up to 185 user I/O pins and integrates two PLL blocks for clock management, making it a low-cost, high-volume programmable logic option for glue logic, custom interfaces, and parallel processing pipelines. A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of integrated circuit containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), embedded memory, routing channels, and programmable I/O cells that engineers can re-program in the field after manufacture. Within the broader semiconductor hierarchy, FPGAs sit alongside microcontrollers, DSPs, and ASICs as programmable logic devices, and Cyclone-family parts occupy Intel's low-cost, high-volume tier of that hierarchy. They are widely used to replace discrete glue logic, accelerate parallel data paths, and bridge mismatched interfaces without committing to an ASIC NRE. Key features of the EP1C6F256C8N include 5,980 LEs, 92,160 bits of embedded RAM (~11.25 KB), 185 user I/Os, two PLLs, and support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and LVDS I/O standards. The Cyclone architecture uses 4-input look-up tables (4-LUTs) per LE and dedicated carry-chain routing for arithmetic, providing predictable timing closure for state machines and DSP-style datapaths up to the device's logic-capacity ceiling. The device is fabricated on a 1.5 V core, 0.13 µm process, and supports configuration via passive serial (PS), active serial (AS), and JTAG modes. The 256-ball FBGA package has a 17 mm × 17 mm body with a 1.0 mm ball pitch, suitable for multi-layer FR4 PCBs. Each user I/O is organized into banks with per-bank VCCIO rails that can be mixed between 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, and 3.3 V, allowing direct interfacing to memories and processors of different voltage generations on the same board. Typical applications for this Cyclone device include industrial control and factory automation backplanes, video and image processing pre-processing pipelines, communications protocol bridging (UART, SPI, I2C, parallel bus glue logic), and consumer-electronics display controllers. Designers also use Cyclone FPGAs as low-cost I/O expanders for embedded processors, custom peripheral controllers, and rapid ASIC prototyping. When designing with the EP1C6F256C8N, observe the I/O-bank VCCIO rules: each bank has its own voltage reference, and mixing 3.3 V LVTTL with 1.5 V SSTL inputs in the same bank is not allowed. Decouple every VCCINT and VCCIO pin with 0.1 µF X7R ceramic capacitors placed as close to the balls as possible, and route the JTAG TCK/TMS/TDO/TDI signals with 4.7 kΩ pull-ups on TCK/TMS to ensure reliable configuration. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-family drop-in speed-grade alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original Cyclone datasheet, giving procurement and design engineers a consolidated reference for the EP1C6F256C8N.
EP1C6F256I7 - Cyclone FPGA, 5980 LE, 185 I/O, 256-BGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6F256I7 is a Cyclone-family Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) built on a 130 nm process, delivering 5,980 logic elements across 598 LABs, with 92,160 bits of embedded RAM and 185 user I/O, housed in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package. It is specified for the industrial temperature range (-40C to +100C case) and operates from a 1.5 V core supply, making it suitable for cost-sensitive, moderate-density logic designs where power and cost are balanced against density. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor integrated circuit whose digital logic function is defined after manufacture by the user, via a configuration bitstream loaded into on-chip SRAM. The Cyclone family sits in the low-power, low-cost tier of Intel's FPGA portfolio, sitting hierarchically below Cyclone II/III/IV/V and above MAX CPLDs in the company's programmable-logic taxonomy. FPGAs are most often chosen when an application requires parallelism, custom I/O timing, or hardware acceleration that microcontrollers and DSPs cannot deliver economically. Key features of the EP1C6F256I7 include two PLL blocks for clock synthesis and skew management, support for multiple I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, and LVDS on selected banks), embedded multipliers for DSP-style arithmetic, and a configuration scheme compatible with active serial (AS), passive serial (PS), and JTAG modes. The device's RAM blocks total 92 Kbits, distributed across the fabric for efficient FIFO and buffering implementations. Architecturally, the EP1C6F256I7 uses a 4-input LUT-based logic element with associated carry chain for fast arithmetic and an adjacent programmable register. Interconnect uses Altera's MultiTrack routing fabric with row and column lines optimized for typical designs at 100-200 MHz system clock rates. Embedded multiplier blocks accelerate DSP operations without consuming general logic resources. Typical applications include industrial control interfaces, low-cost video processing bridges, custom peripheral glue logic, motor control co-processors, and protocol bridging (UART/SPI/I2C to parallel buses). The 256-FBGA footprint also makes it a common choice for space-constrained prototypes migrating from larger QFP-packaged FPGAs. When designing with this device, note that the FBGA package requires X-ray or BGA rework for prototyping - engineers typically use a socketed development board first. Configuration storage requires a separate serial configuration device (EPCS1/EPCS4), and unused I/O banks should be powered according to the datasheet to avoid leakage. JTAG access via the dedicated TCK/TMS/TDI/TDO pins is the recommended bring-up path. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-family Cyclone drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original datasheet alone.
EP1C6F256I7L - Cyclone FPGA, 5,980 LEs, 256-BGA | Intel / Altera
The Intel / Altera EP1C6F256I7L is a member of the first-generation Cyclone FPGA family, delivering 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/Os in a 256-ball FineLine BGA (FBGA) package. The "L" suffix denotes a Pb-free lead-free finish, while the "I7" speed grade with industrial temperature rating (-40C to +100C junction) makes it suitable for harsh-environment embedded designs. The device is fabricated on a 1.5 V, 0.13 µm SRAM-based process with on-chip configuration memory that is loaded at power-up from an external serial or parallel flash. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor IC containing an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated hardware blocks (memory, multipliers, PLLs, I/O) that engineers can re-program after manufacture. FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs (lowest per-unit cost, no flexibility) and microcontrollers (sequential, lower throughput) in the digital design hierarchy: FPGA -> programmable logic -> digital IC -> semiconductor. They are used when parallel processing, deterministic latency, or hardware-level customization is required. Cyclone was Altera's first low-cost FPGA family, intended to displace ASICs in glue-logic, bridging, and DSP-front-end designs. Key features of the EP1C6F256I7L include 20 M4K embedded RAM blocks (each 4 Kbit, true dual-port, with parity), 2 embedded PLLs with clock-multiplication and phase-shift capability, and support for external memory interfaces including DDR SDRAM and QDR SRAM via dedicated DQS pins. The device supports single-ended I/O standards (LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, SSTL, HSTL) on most pins and LVDS up to 303 Mbps on designated pairs. Configuration is via passive serial (PS), active serial (AS), or JTAG. Typical applications for the EP1C6F256I7L span industrial control boards, video frame buffers, protocol bridging (I2C/SPI to UART/GPIO), motor-control pre-processing, and low-density DSP front-ends. Its 256-FBGA package and 1.5 V core provide a balanced cost / integration point for designs that exceed CPLD capacity but do not justify a Cyclone II / III / IV migration. Designers should budget at least one configuration flash (e.g., EPCS4) and a JTAG header for in-system programming. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C6F256I7N - Cyclone FPGA, 5980 LE, 256-FBGA | Intel
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6F256I7N is a Cyclone-family Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrating 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 bits of embedded RAM, and 185 user I/Os in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package measuring 17 x 17 mm with 1.0 mm pitch. Built on a 130 nm CMOS process, the device operates from a 1.5 V core supply (1.425 V to 1.575 V) and supports commercial-to-industrial temperature grades per the I7N speed/temperature suffix. Maximum internal operating frequency is specified up to 250 MHz with PLL support for clock multiplication and phase shifting. What is an FPGA? A Field Programmable Gate Array is a semiconductor device containing configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated hard IP such as block RAM, multipliers, PLLs, and I/O serializers. FPGAs sit at the top of the programmable-logic hierarchy, above CPLDs and PALs, and provide a hardware-parallel alternative to microcontrollers and DSPs for high-throughput, low-latency digital signal processing. The Cyclone family specifically targets cost-sensitive, high-volume applications by trimming unused features of Altera's Stratix line while retaining the Quartus II design-tool ecosystem. Key features include two embedded PLLs, up to 20 global clock networks, dedicated DDR SDRAM interface support, 2 True-LVDS differential I/O pairs, and a passive serial configuration interface that loads bitstreams from low-cost EPCS configuration flash. The 1.5 V core and 3.3 V/2.5 V/1.8 V multi-voltage I/O banks are supplied through independent VCCINT, VCCIO, and VCCA pins, simplifying mixed-voltage board designs. The -I7 speed grade specifies a -40 C to +100 C industrial junction operating range. The Cyclone I architecture uses 4-input look-up tables (LUTs) arranged in Logic Array Blocks (LABs) of 10 LUTs each, with embedded M4K RAM blocks (4 Kbit each, true dual-port) and 18 x 18 hardware multipliers distributed across the fabric. The LE-to-RAM ratio makes the EP1C6 well-suited for glue-logic replacement, custom bus bridges, motor-control state machines, and low-channel-count video processing. Typical applications include industrial motor control, factory automation I/O expansion, low-density video capture/display bridging, medical instrumentation front-ends, and legacy parallel-bus-to-GPI/Ethernet bridging. The 185 user I/Os are sufficient for 32-bit parallel camera interfaces, RGB888 LCD panels, or multi-bank UART/SPI expansion. The wide operating temperature range also makes the device a popular choice for automotive interior modules and outdoor signage controllers. When designing with the EP1C6F256I7N, pay particular attention to the multi-rail decoupling scheme: a minimum of one 100 uF bulk plus 0.1 uF + 1 nF ceramics per VCCINT/VCCIO pin pair is recommended. The exposed die paddle of the FBGA-256 package must be soldered to a thermal pad with adequate vias for heat extraction, especially at sustained toggle rates above 100 MHz on more than 50 percent of the I/O. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives within the Cyclone family, and practical design notes beyond what the manufacturer datasheet alone provides, helping engineers and procurement teams make faster, more confident sourcing decisions.
EP1C6F256I8N - Cyclone FPGA, 6K LE, 256-BGA | Intel (Altera)
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6F256I8N is a member of the first-generation Cyclone FPGA family, delivering 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins in a 256-ball FineLine BGA package, with an industrial temperature grade (I8N suffix denoting -40C to +100C operating range). Built on a 0.13-um SRAM-based process, the Cyclone EP1C6 is a low-cost programmable logic device that targets high-volume, cost-sensitive designs where ASIC-class integration is not economical. A field programmable gate array (FPGA) is a semiconductor integrated circuit composed of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and dedicated I/O elements that an engineer can program after manufacture to implement arbitrary digital logic. Within the broader integrated circuit hierarchy, FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs (high NRE, low unit cost at scale) and discrete logic/microcontrollers (flexible software, but limited by fixed hardware). The Cyclone family specifically occupies the low-density, low-cost tier of Altera/Intel's FPGA portfolio, designed for glue logic, bus bridging, DSP pre/post-processing, and parallel I/O expansion. The EP1C6F256I8N integrates 5,980 logic elements (LEs), 92,160 bits of embedded RAM (M4K blocks), two PLLs, and supports up to 185 LVTTL/LVCMOS/LVDS/SSTL user I/Os. Configuration is via passive serial (PS), active serial (AS), or JTAG modes, supporting Altera EPCS1/EPCS4/EPCS16 serial configuration devices. The 256-ball FineLine BGA provides high pin density at manageable PCB routing complexity, making it suitable for space-constrained industrial, communications, and consumer designs. Architecturally, the Cyclone EP1C6 employs a 4-input look-up-table (LUT) based LE with dedicated carry chain for arithmetic, distributed and block RAM for memory, and per-pin tri-state buffers for bus-oriented interfacing. The device supports LVDS signaling at up to 640 Mbps, DDR SDRAM interfaces with dedicated DQS strobe circuitry, and integrated multipliers for DSP operations. Two PLLs provide clock multiplication, division, phase shifting, and duty-cycle correction for system clock management. Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation backplanes, telecommunications line cards and protocol bridging, video processing front-ends, motor control and drive interfaces, and consumer electronics requiring parallel DSP pipelines. Designers also choose the EP1C6 for legacy design maintenance, cost-sensitive retrofits, and as a flexible replacement for multiple discrete logic ICs on a single board. When designing with the EP1C6F256I8N, careful attention must be paid to power sequencing (VCCINT before VCCIO), JTAG chain integrity for in-system programming, and thermal management in enclosed housings. For new designs, designers should evaluate the Cyclone IV E family as the modern, low-power successor; the EP1C6 remains in service for legacy platforms and long-life industrial deployments.
EP1C6Q24017N - Cyclone FPGA, 6K LEs, 240-Pin PQFP | Altera
The Altera EP1C6Q24017N is a member of the original Cyclone FPGA family delivering 5,980 logic elements in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) package with speed grade 7 and commercial temperature rating. It integrates 92,160 RAM bits and supports up to 185 user I/O pins. The device is fabricated on a 1.5 V, 0.13 µm SRAM-based process and is supplied in Pb-free (lead-free) configuration. According to Altera's Cyclone Family datasheet, the part supports configuration via serial configuration devices, JTAG, and passive/active serial modes, making it flexible for prototyping and low-volume production. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device consisting of an array of configurable logic blocks (CLBs), programmable interconnect, and I/O cells. FPGAs fill the hierarchy: programmable logic -> programmable logic device -> FPGA -> SRAM-based FPGA -> semiconductor. Unlike fixed-function ASICs, FPGAs can be reconfigured in-system to implement arbitrary digital logic, digital signal processing blocks, embedded memory, and soft-core processors. Key features include 92,160 bits of embedded RAM organized as M4K blocks, two PLLs for clock management, support for LVDS I/O, and dedicated DDR SDRAM interfaces. The 240-pin PQFP form factor provides ample pin count for parallel bus interfaces, video processing pipelines, and multi-channel data acquisition. Per Altera documentation, Cyclone devices consume as little as 1.5 V core supply while supporting industry-standard I/O voltages. Architecturally, the Cyclone family employs a 4-input LUT-based logic element with a dedicated register, routing architecture optimized for high-utilization designs, and embedded multiplier blocks for DSP workloads. The device supports the Quartus II design toolchain, which provides synthesis, place-and-route, simulation, and programming file generation. Typical applications include industrial motor control, telecom line cards, video processing, low-cost prototyping, glue logic replacement, and digital signal processing front-ends. The combination of modest logic density, low unit cost, and proven Quartus support makes the EP1C6 ideal for cost-sensitive production. When designing with this device, ensure the supply rails (VCCINT, VCCIO banks) are decoupled per the reference schematic, and configure the JTAG chain carefully when multiple devices are cascaded. Compared to newer Cyclone IV/V parts, the original Cyclone lacks true LVDS at full speed and offers fewer PLLs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet. Engineers can compare alternatives and select a drop-in replacement sourced from Altera's Cyclone family.
EP1C6Q2408N - Cyclone FPGA, 5,980 LE, PQFP-240 | Intel
The Intel EP1C6Q2408N is an Altera Cyclone FPGA offering 5,980 logic elements, a family maximum clock frequency of 275.03 MHz, 130 nm process technology, and a 1.5 V core, supplied in a 240-pin PQFP (Q240) package. A field-programmable gate array is a semiconductor device containing a fabric of configurable logic blocks, embedded memory, and programmable I/O that can be reconfigured to implement arbitrary digital logic. FPGAs are a subclass of programmable logic devices and sit above simpler CPLDs in the digital logic hierarchy. The Cyclone family was introduced by Altera as a low-cost, high-volume FPGA platform, and this EP1C6 member is used when a design needs moderate logic density, flexible I/O standards, and parallel hardware execution without the non-recurring cost of an ASIC. Key features of this device include 5,980 logic elements, a 1.5 V core supply optimized for the 130 nm process, and availability in a 240-pin PQFP well suited to board-level prototyping and legacy production designs. The N suffix indicates a lead-free finish in Altera ordering. As a first-generation Cyclone FPGA, the device uses SRAM-based configuration and therefore requires external configuration memory or a host controller at power-up. From an architectural perspective, the EP1C6Q2408N integrates the Cyclone logic array, embedded RAM blocks, and programmable clock networks. The family datasheet reports a typical family speed of 275.03 MHz, with actual achievable clock rates dependent on speed grade, logic placement, and I/O standards. Because the device is SRAM-based, bitstream loading through JTAG, passive serial, or active serial configuration interfaces must be planned as part of the system design. Typical applications include industrial motor control, factory automation, medical monitoring and imaging, display bridging, and test equipment where FPGA flexibility and deterministic hardware timing are valuable. The 240-pin PQFP allows moderate I/O counts for parallel buses, encoders, ADCs, and communication interfaces. A key design consideration is the 1.5 V core supply: users should generate this rail with a clean regulator and place adequate decoupling close to the FPGA. Verify the exact user I/O count, RAM bits, PLL count, and temperature grade from the manufacturer pin list before finalizing the schematic because the fetched web data did not enumerate them. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in Cyclone-family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in a single manufacturer datasheet, making it useful for engineers replacing or maintaining mature Altera Cyclone designs.
EP1C6Q240C6 - Cyclone FPGA 5980 LE 185 I/O | Altera
The Altera EP1C6Q240C6 is a Cyclone-family field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 5,980 logic elements, 5,980 cells, 185 user I/O pins, and 92,160 bits of embedded RAM, implemented in 130 nm technology with a 1.5 V core supply and housed in a 240-pin PQFP / BFQFP package. This commercial temperature grade, speed grade 6 device supports an internal clock frequency up to 405.2 MHz, making it a low-cost programmable-logic building block for legacy and mid-density digital systems. A field-programmable gate array is a reconfigurable integrated circuit whose logic fabric and interconnects are programmed after manufacturing instead of being fixed in the silicon. FPGA sits inside the programmable logic hierarchy: FPGA -> programmable logic device -> integrated circuit -> semiconductor. Unlike a microcontroller, an FPGA executes massively parallel gate-level functions; unlike a CPLD, it achieves much larger logic capacity and typically uses SRAM-based configuration with an external boot device. The EP1C6Q240C6 belongs to the first-generation Cyclone family, designed for cost-sensitive applications that need hundreds of I/O pins and thousands of logic elements without ASIC NRE costs. Key features of the EP1C6Q240C6 include 598 LABs representing 5,980 logic elements, 185 user I/O pins, 92,160 total RAM bits, 1.5 V core supply, and a 240-pin PQFP package with gull-wing terminals. The C6 suffix designates commercial temperature grade and speed grade 6. According to the Altera Cyclone datasheet and aggregate parametric listings, the device can sustain an internal clock frequency of 405.2 MHz, and it runs from a lower 1.5 V core rail than older 5 V/3.3 V programmable logic. Technically, the EP1C6Q240C6 is built on a 130 nm low-cost process and is one of several density variants in the Cyclone family. The 240-pin PQFP package is a relatively large but board-friendly package for high-I/O FPGAs, offering 185 usable user I/O pins and a square footprint. Since the device is SRAM-based, it must be configured at every power-up from an external configuration device such as an Altera EPC or EPCS serial device, or be loaded through JTAG. It does not contain high-speed serial transceivers, but that is acceptable for parallel bus, control, and data-path applications. Typical applications for the EP1C6Q240C6 include industrial control glue logic, protocol bridging between parallel buses, test instrumentation front-end logic, and teaching or prototyping platforms. Its 5,980 LEs and 185 I/O pins enable implementation of soft microcontrollers, address decoders, PWM generators, interface converters, image-sensor timing logic, and digital signal processing helper circuitry. A key design consideration is that the FPGA core requires a clean 1.5 V rail with adequate decoupling. Equally important, because it is an SRAM FPGA, the configuration bitstream must be loaded immediately after power-up; using an EPCS configuration device or JTAG during development is mandatory. For new designs, verify the exact I/O-voltage standards and PLL resources against the full pinout tables before PCB release. This page synthesizes distributor inventory and pricing, same-family drop-in alternatives, and practical FPGA design notes that are not always reproduced on datasheet aggregation sites, allowing engineers to evaluate the EP1C6Q240C6 quickly for repair, legacy redesign, or surplus sourcing.
EP1C6Q240C6N Cyclone FPGA 185 I/O 240-Pin | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP1C6Q240C6N is a Cyclone® I field-programmable gate array (FPGA) containing 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, 2 PLLs, and 185 user I/Os, packaged in a 240-pin BFQFP/PQFP. This -6 speed-grade commercial device accepts a 1.5 V core supply and supports multiple I/O voltages, making it a practical mid-density programmable logic choice for control, interface, and signal-processing applications. An FPGA is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric can be configured after manufacturing using a hardware description language. Unlike fixed-function ASICs, FPGAs allow designers to implement custom digital logic in days and to update functionality in the field. The EP1C6Q240C6N sits in the hierarchy FPGA → programmable logic device → embedded semiconductor. It is used when an MCU does not have enough parallel I/O or when custom, high-speed logic must be implemented without the non-recurring expense of a custom chip. Key features of the EP1C6Q240C6N include 5,980 logic elements organized as 598 LABs, 20 M4K RAM blocks giving 92,160 total RAM bits, two PLLs, and 185 general-purpose user I/O pins. The package is a 240-pin BFQFP with a commercial operating range of 0°C to 85°C. The N suffix indicates lead-free, RoHS-compliant packaging. These resources support state machines, datapaths, soft-core processors, and parallel bus interfaces while the PLLs enable clock multiplication and phase alignment. The Cyclone I architecture separates the 1.5 V VCCINT core supply from the I/O supply, allowing each I/O bank to interface to 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, or 3.3 V logic. The fabric is SRAM-based, so the device must be configured from an external source, such as an Altera EPCS configuration device or a JTAG download. The -6 speed grade is the fastest standard commercial grade available in this family, providing lower propagation delays and higher achievable clock rates than -7 or -8 variants. Typical applications include industrial motor-control logic, PLC I/O expansion, test-and-measurement interface boards, video capture preprocessing, and communication bridging between processor buses. The 185 user I/Os are especially valuable when many parallel inputs and outputs must be monitored or controlled at deterministic timing. When designing with this device, plan for configuration storage and ensure all I/O bank voltages are connected according to the standards you use. The 1.5 V core should be adequately decoupled, and the power sequence should respect VCCINT and VCCIO requirements described in the Cyclone FPGA family data sheet. This page combines distributor pricing, verified availability, drop-in family alternatives, and design guidance that is not repeated in the manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a convenient cross-reference for lifecycle and procurement decisions.
EP1C6Q240C7 - Cyclone FPGA 5,980 LE, 92Kb RAM | Intel
The Intel (Altera) EP1C6Q240C7 is a Cyclone I field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/Os, supplied in a 240-pin BFQFP package. It is a commercial-temperature, speed-grade 7 member of the low-cost Cyclone family, historically used in communication, industrial, and test equipment where configurable digital logic is required. An FPGA is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric can be configured after manufacturing. In the device hierarchy, an FPGA belongs to programmable logic devices and sits above discrete glue logic in design flexibility. The Cyclone I FPGA is SRAM-based, so it must load a configuration bitstream from an external configuration device, a host processor, or a JTAG cable at power-up. Unlike an ASIC, the EP1C6Q240C7 can be reprogrammed in-system, enabling late design changes, protocol updates, and shorter development schedules for medium-volume boards. Key features visible in verified distributor data include 5,980 logic elements, 598 logic array blocks, 92,160 total RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins. The core logic is fabricated on a 130 nm process and operates from a 1.5 V supply, helping reduce dynamic power compared with older 2.5 V FPGAs. The 240-pin BFQFP package provides a manageable quad flat pack layout for cost-sensitive boards and manual or reflow assembly. The device architecture consists of logic elements grouped into LABs, embedded memory blocks for distributed buffering, and programmable interconnect that connects I/O pins to the core. With 598 LABs, designers can implement counters, state machines, decoders, small soft processors, and parallel bus interfaces. The 92,160 RAM bits support FIFOs, small packet buffers, and register files without adding external SRAM. The 185 user I/Os allow a high pin count for parallel busses and chip-to-chip interfaces. Typical applications include industrial controller I/O expansion, protocol bridging, data acquisition front ends, custom video timing generation, and FPGA prototyping. Because the part is an SRAM FPGA, it is particularly useful when the exact logic function is still evolving or when the same board must support multiple interface standards by changing only the configuration bitstream. One important design consideration is that the core requires a clean 1.5 V supply and a valid configuration source before user I/O can operate. Designers must handle power-up sequencing, strap the mode-select pins for the intended configuration scheme, and provide a configuration clock to the EPCS or download cable. Unused I/O pins should be assigned as inputs with weak pull-ups or driven to defined levels in the Quartus project to avoid floating nodes. This page synthesizes distributor stock signals, drop-in Intel/Altera family alternatives, comparison data, and practical design notes that are not all found in the brief distributor snippets. It is intended to help engineers quickly evaluate EP1C6Q240C7 for legacy FPGA designs and define the fastest safe migration path within the same 240-pin package.
EP1C6Q240C7N - Cyclone FPGA, 5980 LE, QFP-240 | Intel
The Intel EP1C6Q240C7N is a Cyclone field-programmable gate array (FPGA) containing 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins in a 240-pin BFQFP package. It belongs to the first-generation Cyclone family originally developed by Altera and now supported by Intel. The -7 speed grade and lead-free “N” finish make this component suitable for logic integration applications that require moderate density, flexible I/O, and a surface-mount quad flat pack that is easier to route than a fine-pitch BGA. A field-programmable gate array is an integrated circuit whose logic fabric can be configured after manufacturing, unlike a fixed-function ASIC or standard logic device. The FPGA is the most flexible member of the programmable logic family, sitting above CPLDs in capacity and below high-end 28 nm and 16 nm FPGAs in complexity. Designers use FPGAs when time-to-market, reconfigurability, or parallel processing requirements outweigh the per-unit cost advantages of a fixed ASIC. In a typical system hierarchy, an FPGA belongs to “Programmable Logic ICs > FPGA > SRAM-based FPGA,” and the EP1C6 is one of the small-to-medium members of that category. Key verified specifications from distributor and datasheet-index data include 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/O pins in a 240-BFQFP package. As a Cyclone EP1C6 part, it provides the architectural balance of look-up-table logic, embedded memory, and multiple I/O banks. The -7 speed grade is the mainstream commercial speed option in this family, while the “N” suffix indicates a RoHS-compliant lead-free assembly. The 240-pin PQFP package has a relatively large pitch and wide availability of low-cost testing sockets, making it practical for prototype and low-to-medium volume applications. Architecturally, the Cyclone EP1C6 uses an SRAM-based configuration fabric and must be loaded from an external configuration device or host at power-up. The device includes dedicated clock networks and multiple I/O banks, though the verified web snippets do not provide exhaustive details about PLL count, core voltage, or special transceivers. The 185 user I/O count allows a wide parallel bus to be brought out to the PCB, which is useful for SDR, motor control, and simple video capture. The 92,160 RAM bits support shallow FIFOs and line buffers, while the 5,980 logic elements implement modest state machines and datapaths. Typical applications include industrial motor-control interfaces, video image capture and display, communication protocol bridges, and low-cost test-and-measurement controllers. Because this is an older Cyclone family, it is not recommended for new high-performance designs, but it remains relevant for legacy product sustainment, educational projects, and designs already qualified around the 240-pin BFQFP footprint. Designers evaluating it should confirm supply, thermal, and configuration requirements from the official Cyclone device handbook before committing a board. The main design consideration for EP1C6Q240C7N is that SRAM-based FPGAs require a configuration source and a controlled power-up sequence. Use a compatible serial configuration device or host interface, and verify the core and I/O voltage rails before layout completion. Also remember that Cyclone I FPGAs are near or past end-of-life, so lifetime-buy planning is essential for production systems. This page synthesizes distributor stock information, cross-reference links, package details, and engineering considerations for the EP1C6Q240C7N that do not appear together in any single datasheet index result.
EP1C6Q240C8 - Cyclone FPGA, 6K LEs, 240-PQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6Q240C8 is a member of the Cyclone family of low-cost Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) built on a 1.5 V, 0.13 micrometer, all-layer copper SRAM process. It integrates 5,980 logic elements organized into 185 LABs (logic array blocks) and provides 92,160 RAM bits of embedded memory. The device is housed in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP-240 / BFQFP-240) measuring 34.60 x 34.60 mm with a 0.50 mm lead pitch, and operates from a commercial 0 to 85 degree Celsius temperature range at speed grade 8. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a class of programmable logic device that combines configurable logic blocks, programmable interconnect, and I/O peripherals on a single die. FPGAs occupy the top of the programmable logic hierarchy (above CPLDs) and sit alongside ASICs in the broader semiconductor landscape. The Cyclone family specifically targets cost-sensitive, high-volume applications where designers need the flexibility of programmable hardware without the unit cost of a custom ASIC. The EP1C6 (5,980 LEs) is the mid-density option in the Cyclone family, positioned between the EP1C3 (3,000 LEs) and EP1C12 (12,060 LEs) for designs that need more logic than the smallest member but do not require the full capacity of the largest. Key features include two phase-locked loops (PLLs) for clock management, up to 185 user I/O pins, dedicated DDR SDRAM interface support, and configuration via active serial (AS), passive serial (PS), or JTAG. The device supports single-ended I/O standards such as LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and PCI, and provides bitstream encryption for design security. Power is supplied through dedicated VCCINT (1.5 V core) and VCCIO (banked I/O) rails with VCCPLL for the analog PLL circuitry. The architecture is built around four-input look-up tables (4-LUTs) and embedded multiplier blocks, with the embedded array blocks (EABs) implementing dual-port RAM, ROM, or FIFO memory functions. The Quartus II design suite supports schematic, VHDL, and Verilog entry, and provides timing-driven compilation and the SOPC Builder tool for embedded processor integration (Nios II). Typical applications include industrial control and factory automation, telecommunications line cards, video processing, consumer electronics, and low-cost DSP front-ends. The 240-pin PQFP footprint is well-suited to through-hole or socketed prototyping where high-density BGAs are impractical. When designing with this device, allocate VCCINT decoupling within 100 mils of each pin pair and keep PLL analog supplies isolated with a ferrite bead. The PQFP-240 package has limited thermal dissipation; at high toggle rates, the junction temperature can rise significantly above ambient, so consider airflow or a small heatsink for continuous high-utilization designs. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in pin-compatible alternatives from the Cyclone family, and practical PCB design guidance not found in the standalone datasheet. All alternatives share the same 240-pin QFP footprint to enable drop-in PCB reuse.
EP1C6Q240C8N - Cyclone FPGA 6K LEs, 240-PQFP | Intel / Altera
The Intel (formerly Altera) EP1C6Q240C8N is a member of the Cyclone® FPGA family built on a 1.5 V, 0.13 µm all-layer copper SRAM process, integrating 5,980 logic elements, 92,160 RAM bits, and 185 user I/Os in a 240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP/BFQFP). It operates with a maximum internal frequency near 275 MHz and a commercial speed grade of -8, making it the highest-speed commercial bin in the Cyclone I lineup. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a programmable logic device that lets designers implement arbitrary digital functions in silicon via a configuration bitstream stored in SRAM. FPGAs sit between fixed-function ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) and general-purpose microcontrollers, combining high parallelism with low non-recurring engineering cost. Cyclone-class FPGAs target cost-sensitive volume applications such as digital signal processing pipelines, custom peripheral bridging, and glue-logic replacement, while newer families (Cyclone II onward) extend density and on-chip memory. Key features of the EP1C6Q240C8N include 5,980 logic elements distributed across 598 LABs (Logic Array Blocks), 92,160 bits of embedded RAM organized as M4K blocks, two PLLs (Phase-Locked Loops) for clock synthesis, and support for LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL-2, and SSTL-3 I/O standards. The device is configured via low-cost serial configuration devices (EPCS1/EPCS4) or JTAG, and the 240-pin PQFP package supports surface-mount assembly on standard 0.5 mm pitch. Architecturally, the Cyclone I fabric uses 4-input look-up tables (LUTs) per logic element, dedicated carry chains for fast arithmetic, and embedded multiplier-free DSP implemented in soft logic. The PLLs support clock multiplication, division, and phase shifting for DDR memory interfaces. Configuration bitstream is stored in on-chip SRAM, so the device must be reconfigured at every power-up - a key consideration for systems requiring instant-on behavior. Typical applications include industrial control and motor drive logic, low-cost video processing, custom PCI/ISA bridges, and legacy system redesign where Cyclone I is preferred for supply stability. The wide 240-pin PQFP footprint is also favorable for prototyping and educational platforms because the package is hand-solderable with care. When designing with this part, allow time for FPGA configuration at boot and select the appropriate serial configuration device based on compressed bitstream size. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible same-family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet.
EP1C6Q240I6N - Cyclone FPGA, 5980 LE, 185 I/O | Altera
The Altera Corporation EP1C6Q240I6N is a Cyclone-family field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with 5,980 logic elements, 185 user I/O pins, and 92,160 RAM bits, offering a 405.2 MHz maximum clock and a 1.5 V core supply in a 240-pin PQFP package. This industrial-temperature variant is intended for cost-sensitive logic integration in embedded systems. An FPGA is a semiconductor device whose digital logic can be reconfigured after manufacturing by loading a bitstream into SRAM-based configuration cells. Unlike a fixed-function ASIC or MCU, an FPGA is reprogrammable, so the same EP1C6Q240I6N can serve different logic functions by changing its configuration. In the component hierarchy, an FPGA is a programmable logic device, a subset of programmable logic ICs and ultimately an integrated circuit. Key features include 5,980 logic elements for moderate-density RTL, 92,160 RAM bits for FIFOs and small buffers, and up to 185 user I/O pins for board-level interfaces. The 130 nm 1.5 V architecture keeps core power manageable, while the -40°C to +100°C industrial rating permits operation in factory, telecom, and outdoor equipment. The 405.2 MHz maximum clock and distributed memory support state machines, bus interfaces, and data preprocessing. The Cyclone family was positioned as Altera's low-cost FPGA line, balancing logic capacity, memory, I/O, and price. The EP1C6 device is SRAM-based and must receive configuration at power-up from an external configuration device such as an Altera EPCS serial flash or through a download cable. The 240-pin PQFP package provides high I/O count in a wire-bonded surface-mount format, and the core 1.5 V supply is typically derived from a board power rail. Typical applications include industrial motor control, communication protocol bridging, video timing and display processing, and medical equipment front-end logic. With 185 I/O pins, the FPGA can capture or drive parallel buses and multiple sensor channels, while 92,160 RAM bits reduce the need for external FIFOs. The industrial temperature range allows installation inside cabinets or enclosures with limited forced-air cooling. When designing with the EP1C6Q240I6N, place 100 nF ceramic capacitors close to every core and I/O supply pin and add bulk capacitance near the 1.5 V regulator. Keep the configuration interface clean during power-up and verify that VCCIO rails are compatible with the connected logic family. On a PQFP-240 board, route with controlled fanout on 0.5 mm pitch and follow the manufacturer pin list for all nets. This page aggregates verified distributor data, packaging variants, practical FPGA design notes, and drop-in alternatives so you can evaluate the EP1C6Q240I6N without visiting multiple sources. The manufacturer datasheet remains authoritative for electrical ratings, while XAIPART adds pricing context, replacement guidance, and procurement support for engineering teams.