EP20K100FC144-3

Overview

The Altera EP20K100FC144-3 is a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) belonging to the APEX 20K family. It features a MultiCore architecture integrating Look-Up Table (LUT) logic, product-term logic, and Embedded System Blocks (ESB). The device provides 4,160 Logic Elements (LEs), 53,248 maximum RAM bits, and 416 macrocells. It operates at a supply voltage of 2.5 V with a maximum system frequency of 170 MHz. The component is housed in a 144-pin FineLine BGA package and supports up to 93 user I/O pins.

Feature Summary

• MultiCore architecture combining LUT-based logic for register-intensive functions and product-term logic for combinatorial paths.
• Embedded System Blocks (ESB) supporting FIFO buffers, dual-port RAM, and Content-Addressable Memory (CAM).
• Flexible clock management with up to four Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs) and ClockLock/ClockBoost features.
• FastTrack Interconnect structure providing predictable delays and dedicated carry/cascade chains for arithmetic functions.

Applications

• System-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration designs.
• Complex state machines and control logic requiring high-speed combinatorial processing.
• Digital signal processing (DSP) and data-path applications utilizing LUT efficiency.
• Interfaces compliant with PCI Local Bus Specification Revision 2.2.

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific speed grade suffix (-3) against official datasheets to confirm timing characteristics, as standard listings often reference -1 or -2 grades. Confirm RoHS compliance status, as older APEX 20K variants may not meet current environmental standards. Check for end-of-life status, as this family has been superseded by newer Intel FPGA architectures.

Selection Notes

Select this device when design requirements exceed CPLD capabilities but do not necessitate modern high-density FPGAs. Ensure the 2.5 V internal supply voltage aligns with system power rails. Verify that the 144-pin FBGA footprint fits the PCB layout constraints. Consider the 170 MHz performance limit for clock domain requirements.

Part Context

The EP20K100FC144-3 is part of the APEX 20K series, which was among the first PLDs to incorporate SOPC integration. This specific model represents the 100K gate density variant within the non-E (standard) APEX 20K line, distinguished from the 1.8V/2.5V multi-volt APEX 20KE devices. It utilizes the FineLine BGA packaging technology for space efficiency.

Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitute part numbers are not available in the provided source material. Modern replacements typically involve Intel Agilex or Stratix families, though pin compatibility is not guaranteed.