EP20K100TC144-3N - APEX 20K FPGA, 100K Gates, 144-LQFP | Intel
MPN: EP20K100TC144-3N ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $38.5 | $38.50 |
| 10 | $34.2 | $342.00 |
| 100 | $28.75 | $2,875.00 |
| 500 | $24.1 | $12,050.00 |
| 1,000 | $21.5 | $21,500.00 |
EP20K100TC144-3N Overview
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.
Drop-in alternatives for EP20K100TC144-3N — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with EP20K100TC144-3N (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Family, Process Technology, Operating Temperature, Speed Grade.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EP20K100TC144-3
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$19.8 / Unit
View Datasheet →EP20K100TC144-2
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
EP20K100TC144-1XV
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
EP20K100FC144-3
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$59.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →EP20K100ETC144-2N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$22 / Unit
View Datasheet →EP20K100CT144C7
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$9.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →EP20K100TC144-3N Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | APEX 20K |
| Device Type | Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) |
| Typical Gates | 100,000 |
| Logic Elements / Cells | 4,160 |
| Number of Logic Elements/Cells | 4,160 |
| Total RAM Bits | 53,248 |
| Number of I/O | 101 |
| Number of Macros | 416 |
| Core Voltage | 2.5 V |
| Operating Frequency (max) | 167 MHz |
| Process Technology | 0.22 µm CMOS |
| Package | 144-pin LQFP (TQFP) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 85°C (commercial) |
| Speed Grade | -3 |
EP20K100TC144-3N 144-pin lqfp (tqfp) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for EP20K100TC144-3N (144-pin lqfp (tqfp) package). This digital IC includes GPIO, communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C), and power pins. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for alternate pin functions and configuration options. Essential for embedded system design and PCB layout.
No detailed pinout data available for EP20K100TC144-3N.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
EP20K100TC144-3N is suitable for 6 applications: Telecommunications Line Cards, Industrial Control Logic, Legacy PCI Bridge Designs, ASIC Prototyping, Peripheral Controllers, Embedded Computing Boards.
Telecommunications Line Cards
The EP20K100TC144-3N is well-suited to telecom line-card glue logic and protocol adaptation. Its 4,160 logic elements and 53,248 bits of embedded RAM in a 144-LQFP footprint deliver enough density for HDLC controllers, Utopia/PosPHY interfaces, and ATM segmentation blocks. The 167 MHz internal performance supports 155 Mbps POS-PHY operation, while the 101 user I/Os accommodate 16-bit wide data buses plus parity and framing pins. Compared to a fixed-function ASIC, the APEX 20K architecture lets you iterate protocol revisions without respinning silicon, which is critical during telecom standards migration.
Recommended
Industrial Control Logic
In factory automation the EP20K100TC144-3N provides deterministic logic for motor-control feedback loops, encoder decoding, and safety interlock management. The 0-85°C commercial temperature range is adequate for sealed control cabinets, and the LQFP-144 footprint supports through-hole-compatible prototyping on 2-layer boards. With 4,160 logic elements, the device can host a complete PLC scan engine plus multiple PID loops in parallel, while 101 I/Os handle 24V-tolerant opto-isolated field wiring via external transceivers. For new designs prefer Cyclone IV, but for legacy sustainment the APEX 20K remains well supported.
Recommended
Legacy PCI Bridge Designs
The EP20K100TC144-3N is commonly used to implement 32-bit, 33 MHz PCI bridge logic on legacy motherboards and add-in cards. The 144-LQFP provides enough I/O count (101 user) for the full 32-bit PCI bus plus 5 V-tolerant signaling through external resistors, and the -3 speed grade easily meets 33 MHz PCI timing budgets. 53 Kbits of on-chip RAM is sufficient for posted-write buffers and configuration space scratch registers. Designers should note that the APEX 20K does not include 3.3 V PCI-clamp I/O natively, so external transceiver devices are required.
Recommended
ASIC Prototyping
Engineers prototyping ASIC designs use the EP20K100TC144-3N as a silicon-accurate functional pre-silicon verification platform. The 4,160 logic elements and 53 Kbits of block RAM can host realistic cache controllers, DMA engines, and bus arbiters at near-ASIC clock rates, allowing real-world firmware bring-up months before first silicon returns. The 144-LQFP is hand-solderable for quick board revisions, and Quartus II 13.x retains full APEX 20K synthesis support. Once the ASIC tape-out is verified, the FPGA design is dropped and the APEX device is reused as product glue logic on the final board.
Recommended
Peripheral Controllers
The EP20K100TC144-3N serves as a peripheral controller in legacy desktop and industrial computers, implementing SCSI, IDE, or parallel-port interfaces that have since been absorbed into southbridge chipsets. With 4,160 logic elements, the device can handle bus mastering DMA plus scatter-gather descriptor handling, while 101 I/Os cover wide data paths plus interrupt and control lines. The 0.22 µm process gives it ample drive strength at 5 V-tolerant operation with external transceivers, making it a flexible glue-logic substitute when commercial chipsets are unavailable.
Recommended
Embedded Computing Boards
Single-board computers and VME/cPCI carrier cards integrate the EP20K100TC144-3N as a bus interface and custom I/O controller. Its 144-LQFP footprint makes it compatible with PC/104-Plus stackable form factors when combined with a small adapter PCB, and the 4,160 logic elements are sufficient for CompactFlash-to-PCI bridges, video overlay logic, or custom DSP co-processing. The 2.5 V core draws minimal power, simplifying thermal design for fan-less embedded enclosures. For modern designs the same socket is migration-compatible with the Cyclone IV EP4CE6 or EP4CE10 in 144-pin EQFP.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EP20K100TC144-3N — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EP20K100TC144-3 | EP20K100TC144-2 | EP20K100TC144-1XV | EP20K100FC144-3 | EP20K100ETC144-2N | EP20K100CT144C7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel |
| Package | 144-LQFP (TQFP) | 144-LQFP (TQFP) - same | 144-LQFP (TQFP) - same | 144-LQFP (TQFP) - same | 144-LQFP (TQFP) - same | 144-LQFP (TQFP) - same | 144-LQFP (TQFP) - same |
| Logic Elements / Cells | 4,160 | 4,160 | 4,160 | 4,160 | 4,160 | 4,160 (enhanced) | 4,160 (APEX 20KE) |
| Embedded RAM Bits | 53,248 | 53,248 | 53,248 | 53,248 | 53,248 | 53,248 | 53,248 |
| User I/O Count | 101 | 101 | 101 | 101 | 101 | 101 | 101 |
| Speed Grade | -3 (fastest) | -3 | -2 (slower) | -1X (slowest, extended temp) | -3 | -2 (slower, enhanced) | C7 (APEX 20KE) |
| Core Voltage | 2.5 V | 2.5 V | 2.5 V | 2.5 V | 2.5 V | 2.5 V | 2.5 V |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Industrial-grade lead-free N-suffix designation (vs EP20K100TC144-3)
- Top -3 speed grade within 144-LQFP family (vs EP20K100TC144-2)
- Mature APEX 20K architecture with extensive reference designs (vs EP20K100FC144-3)
Design Notes
The EP20K100TC144-3N operates from a 2.5 V core supply; the I/O banks can be configured for 3.3 V or 5.0 V tolerant signaling with external clamping diodes. Estimated: at typical utilization the core draws approximately 200-400 mA, so design the 2.5 V regulator for at least 600 mA peak headroom. Add 10 µF + 0.1 µF decoupling close to each VCCINT and VCCIO pin pair.
The 144-LQFP package has 0.5 mm lead pitch, which is hand-solderable with a fine-tip iron but requires a 4-layer PCB with 0.2 mm via stitching for reliable production assembly. The exposed die-pad version is not present on this LQFP - thermal dissipation must rely on the internal power pad bond wires, so attach a small copper pour under the package for additional heat spreading at moderate utilization.
Do not confuse the EP20K100TC144-3N with the EP20K100TC144-1, EP20K100TC144-2, or EP20K100TC144-3 (no N suffix) when ordering - the N suffix denotes a specific lead-free and commercial temperature grade. The APEX 20K architecture is supported only by Quartus II versions 7.x through 13.x; Quartus Prime 15+ and newer do not include APEX 20K device support, so legacy toolchains must be retained for recompilation.
Compliance Information
N-suffix indicates lead-free finish per Altera/Intel naming convention. RoHS, REACH, halogen-free and conflict-minerals compliance were not present in the verified data; marked unknown pending manufacturer declaration.