EP20K200EFC484-3N

Overview

The Altera EP20K200EFC484-3N is an APEX 20KE Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) housed in a 484-pin FineLine BGA package. It features the MultiCore architecture, integrating Look-Up Table (LUT) logic, product-term-based macrocells, and Embedded System Blocks (ESBs). The device provides 8,320 Logic Elements (LEs), 52 ESBs, and supports up to 106,496 maximum RAM bits. It operates at a 2.5 V internal supply voltage (VCCINT) with MultiVolt I/O support for 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and 5.0 V levels. The -3 speed grade indicates specific timing performance characteristics within the family.

Feature Summary

• MultiCore Architecture: Combines LUT-based logic for register-intensive functions, product-term logic for combinatorial paths, and embedded memory.
• High Density: Offers 8,320 LEs, 832 macrocells, and 52 Embedded System Blocks (ESBs) capable of implementing FIFO, dual-port RAM, and CAM.
• Advanced I/O Standards: Supports MultiVolt I/O interfaces including LVDS, PCI-X, AGP, SSTL-2/3, HSTL Class I, and GTL+.
• Clock Management: Includes four Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs), ClockLock for delay reduction, and ClockBoost for multiplication/division.

Applications

• System-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) integration
• Complex state machines and control logic
• High-speed data path and DSP designs
• Memory-intensive applications requiring CAM or FIFO buffers

Procurement Notes

Verify component authenticity through authorized distributors or certified secondary market suppliers. Confirm RoHS compliance status as indicated by the 'N' designation in legacy documentation. Check for moisture sensitivity level (MSL) handling requirements prior to assembly. Ensure compatibility with legacy configuration devices such as EPC1 or EPC2 series for system power-up initialization.

Selection Notes

Select this model when design requirements exceed standard APEX 20K capabilities but do not necessitate newer FPGA families. The EP20K200E variant specifically enables 5.0-V tolerant I/O via external resistors and supports advanced standards like PCI-X and LVDS. Compare against EP20K200 (non-E) if lower I/O flexibility or absence of ClockShift features is acceptable for cost optimization.

Part Context

This component belongs to the APEX 20KE family, representing an evolution of the original APEX 20K line with enhanced I/O standards and clock management. It utilizes SRAM-based technology, requiring external configuration upon power-up. The part is historically significant for bridging the gap between high-density PLDs and ASICs, offering reconfigurability for prototype-to-production flows.

Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-compatible replacements are not available due to architectural differences in modern FPGAs. Consider Intel/Altera Cyclone or Stratix families for functional equivalents, though these require redesign of the board layout and configuration strategy. Verify that alternative devices support similar I/O voltage levels and memory block configurations.