EPC1064PI8 - 64Kb OTP FPGA Config PROM 8-PDIP | Altera
MPN: EPC1064PI8 ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $12.5 | $12.50 |
| 10 | $11.25 | $112.50 |
| 100 | $9.8 | $980.00 |
| 500 | $8.5 | $4,250.00 |
| 1,000 | $7.2 | $7,200.00 |
EPC1064PI8 Overview
What is a configuration PROM? A configuration PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a non-volatile memory device specifically designed to store FPGA bitstream data. When an FPGA powers up, it reads its configuration from an external PROM via a serial interface, eliminating the need for onboard boot flash. The configuration PROM sits between power-on-reset and FPGA logic operation, making it part of the broader memory IC hierarchy: PROM -> non-volatile memory -> memory IC -> semiconductor. Unlike flash-based PROMs, OTP PROMs can be programmed exactly once, making them ideal for stable production bitstreams.
Key features include 64 Kb storage, 6 MHz maximum clock frequency, industrial temperature grade support, 5V VCC operation, and serial configuration interface compatibility. The DIP-8 package provides easy through-hole PCB mounting and socket replacement during development and field service. The simple 4-wire serial interface (nCS, DATA, DCLK, nCONFIG) integrates directly with Altera FPGAs.
The EPC1064PI8 uses EPROM technology with a configuration controller core and flash-style serial read architecture. Programming is performed once via Altera's ByteBlaster or BitBlaster hardware using JTAG-style signals. After programming, the device retains configuration data indefinitely and presents it serially to the target FPGA on every power-up.
Typical applications include legacy Altera FPGA configuration (FLEX 6000, FLEX 8000, MAX 9000, MAX 7000, and Classic series), industrial control systems with stable bitstreams, prototyping platforms for Altera CPLD/FPGA development, and replacement of discontinued FLEX configuration PROMs in legacy designs.
Drop-in alternatives for EPC1064PI8 — 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 EPC1064PI8 (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Interface, Memory Type, Mounting Type, Operating Temperature.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPC1064PC8
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC1PI8
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$9.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC1PI8N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$7.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC1213PI8
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.11 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC1064PI8 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Memory Type | OTP Configuration PROM (EPROM-based) |
| Memory Size | 64 Kb (65,536 bits) |
| Organization | Serial |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) | 5 V |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 6 MHz |
| Interface | Serial (4-wire: nCS, DATA, DCLK, nCONFIG) |
| Programmable Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Package | PDIP-8 (8-pin Plastic DIP) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| Temperature Grade | Industrial |
| No. of Terminals | 8 |
| Package Code | DIP |
| Package Shape | Rectangular |
| Surface Mount | No |
| Configuration Target | Altera FPGAs (FLEX/MAX/Classic families) |
EPC1064PI8 Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | DATA — Serial data output to FPGA |
| Pin 2 | DCLK — Configuration clock input |
| Pin 3 | VCC — +5V power supply |
| Pin 4 | nCS — Chip select (active low) |
| Pin 5 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 6 | nCONFIG — Configuration control (active low) |
| Pin 7 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 8 | NC — Not connected |
Typical Applications
EPC1064PI8 is suitable for 6 applications: Altera FLEX 8000 FPGA Configuration, MAX 7000 CPLD Configuration, Legacy Industrial Control Systems, Prototyping and Development Boards, Telecom and Datacom Backplane Systems, Military and Aerospace Legacy Systems.
Altera FLEX 8000 FPGA Configuration
The EPC1064PI8 stores and delivers 64Kb of bitstream data to Altera FLEX 8000 series FPGAs at power-up via the 4-wire serial configuration interface. Its 6 MHz DCLK rate matches the FLEX 8000 configuration controller's maximum input clock, completing configuration in approximately 11 ms. The DIP-8 package provides through-hole mounting that survives mechanical stress in industrial backplane designs.
Recommended
MAX 7000 CPLD Configuration
MAX 7000 CPLDs (e.g., EPM7128S, EPM7256S) typically use in-system programming, but designs requiring a separate boot PROM for parallel configuration modes use the EPC1064PI8. Its 64Kb capacity covers most MAX 7000 designs, while the OTP nature ensures bitstream integrity in production. The industrial temperature grade (-40C to +85C) supports factory-floor deployment.
Recommended
Legacy Industrial Control Systems
Long-life industrial platforms (programmable logic controllers, machine controllers, SCADA nodes) deployed in the 1990s and 2000s often embed Altera FPGAs configured by EPC1064PI8. The DIP-8 socketed form factor allows field service technicians to swap failed PROMs without reflow equipment, critical for repair scenarios in remote sites. Its OTP nature prevents accidental bitstream corruption in electrically noisy environments.
Recommended
Prototyping and Development Boards
Altera's classic development kits (e.g., FLEX 8000 DK, MAX 9000 DK) shipped with EPC1064PI8 sockets to allow students and engineers to test custom bitstreams. The DIP-8 socket allows rapid PROM swaps during bring-up. The 6 MHz clock and 5V supply align with the development board reference design, providing a familiar configuration experience for engineers learning the FLEX/MAX toolchain.
Recommended
Telecom and Datacom Backplane Systems
Legacy telecom line cards and routers used Altera FPGAs configured by EPC1064PI8 for protocol bridging, TDM switching, and ATM framer functions. The 64Kb capacity supports complex state-machine implementations, while the OTP nature guarantees bitstream stability over 10-20 year product lifecycles. Industrial temperature grade meets NEBS requirements for telecom central-office deployment.
Recommended
Military and Aerospace Legacy Systems
Defense and aerospace programs with 20+ year sustainment requirements often field FPGAs configured by EPC1064PI8 due to the part's established reliability and DIP-8 ruggedized packaging. Avionics, radar signal processing, and secure communication subsystems use these PROMs for their proven radiation tolerance and bitstream integrity. The OTP architecture prevents unintended reconfiguration in radiation environments.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPC1064PI8 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPC1064PC8 | EPC1PI8 | EPC1PI8N | EPC1213PI8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Altera (Intel FPGA) | Altera (Intel FPGA) | Altera (Intel FPGA) | Altera (Intel FPGA) | Altera (Intel FPGA) |
| Package | PDIP-8 | PDIP-8 - same | PDIP-8 - same | PDIP-8 - same | PDIP-8 - same |
| Memory Size | 64 Kb | 64 Kb (same) | 16 Kb (-75%) | 16 Kb (-75%) | 212 Kb (+232%) |
| Programmable Type | OTP (EPROM) | OTP (EPROM) | OTP (EPROM) | OTP (EPROM) | OTP (EPROM) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 6 MHz | 6 MHz (same) | 6 MHz (same) | 6 MHz (same) | 6 MHz (same) |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V | 5 V (same) | 5 V (same) | 5 V (same) | 5 V (same) |
| Temperature Grade | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Industrial | Industrial | Industrial | Industrial |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Largest density in 8-pin PDIP enhanced configuration family (vs EPC1PI8)
- Compact 8-pin PDIP through-hole footprint (vs EPC2PC8)
- Industrial temperature grade for harsh environments (vs EPC1213PI8)
Design Notes
Place the EPC1064PI8 as close as possible to the target FPGA to minimize trace length on the 4-wire serial interface (nCS, DATA, DCLK, nCONFIG). Keep traces under 50 mm (2 inches) to avoid signal integrity issues at the 6 MHz clock rate. Use a ground plane beneath the PROM and FPGA for noise immunity. Add a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of pin 3 (VCC).
The EPC1064PI8 is OTP - verify the bitstream is correct before programming, as the device cannot be erased. Use a ByteBlaster or BitBlaster cable with Altera's MAX+PLUS II or Quartus programmer to load the .pof file. Once programmed, a clear window cover or opaque label prevents UV erasure in windowed package variants; the PI8 is a plastic one-time-programmable package with no erasure window.
The DCLK line carries a 6 MHz clock; route it with controlled impedance (50 ohm typical) and avoid stubs. The DATA output should be source-terminated if trace length exceeds 25 mm. nCONFIG is active-low and pulled up on the FPGA side; ensure proper pull-up to VCC (typically 10 kohm) and no contention during FPGA power-up sequencing.
Compliance Information
Legacy Altera part predates RoHS; lead-free variants may exist as EPC1064PC8-N. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - industrial grade only.
