EPF8636ARC208-4

Field Programmable Gate Array Overview

The Altera EPF8636ARC208-4 is a high-performance Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) belonging to the FLEX 8000 family. It features 3,584 usable gates and supports up to 192 I/O pins within a 208-pin FineLine BGA package. The device operates at a maximum system clock frequency of 100 MHz with a supply voltage of 3.3V. Key electrical characteristics include a propagation delay of 4 ns for logic paths and support for in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interfaces.

Field Programmable Gate Array Feature Summary

• Supports complex digital logic design through dense macrocell architecture
• Enables rapid prototyping and design iteration via in-system programmability
• Integrates on-chip memory blocks for data storage and buffering
• Provides flexible I/O configuration options for diverse interface requirements

Field Programmable Gate Array Applications

• High-speed data processing systems
• Telecommunications protocol implementation
• Industrial control logic automation
• Test and measurement equipment signal processing

Field Programmable Gate Array Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix code against official manufacturer documentation to confirm speed grade and package variant. Ensure compatibility with existing programming cables and software versions for JTAG access. Confirm that the 3.3V power supply requirements align with current system designs. Request detailed datasheets to validate timing constraints and thermal specifications before integration.

Field Programmable Gate Array Selection Notes

Select this component when designs require moderate gate density with high-speed performance capabilities. Consider the FLEX 8000 architecture for applications needing embedded memory resources alongside logic functions. Evaluate pin count requirements against the 192 I/O limit. Compare against newer families if lower power consumption or higher density is required for future scalability.

Field Programmable Gate Array Part Context

This part belongs to Altera's FLEX 8000 series, which introduced Embedded Macrocells and SRAM-based configuration technology. It represents an evolution from earlier EPLD devices, offering greater flexibility and reprogrammability. The series was widely adopted in the mid-1990s for complex digital logic applications before being superseded by the FLEX 10K and subsequent Cyclone families.

Field Programmable Gate Array Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements are limited due to the legacy status of the FLEX 8000 family. Verify functional equivalence with newer Altera/Intel FPGA families such as Cyclone IV or V, noting differences in architecture and toolchain requirements. Cross-reference pinouts and I/O standards carefully when migrating to modern equivalents.