EPC1064VTC32 - 64Kb OTP Configuration PROM | Altera | 32-TQFP
MPN: EPC1064VTC32 ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5.92 | $5.92 |
| 10 | $5.45 | $54.50 |
| 100 | $4.78 | $478.00 |
| 500 | $4.15 | $2,075.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.6 | $3,600.00 |
EPC1064VTC32 Overview
An FPGA configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory device that holds the FPGA's bitstream and serially delivers it at power-up through the FPGA's configuration interface (typically the Altera passive serial, passive parallel, or JTAG scheme). The EPC1064 belongs to Altera's enhanced configuration device family, which integrates a configuration controller and a flash/OTP memory array on one die to simplify board layout and shorten FPGA in-system programming time.
Key features include 65,536 bits of OTP storage (organized as one configuration bitstream), an industry-standard 4-pin JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) boundary-scan interface for in-system programming, dedicated FPGA control signals (nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, nCONFIG, DCLK), and a cascading interface that allows multiple EPC devices to be daisy-chained for FPGAs requiring larger bitstreams than 64 Kb. The device is supplied in a surface-mount 32-TQFP package rated for the standard 0C to +70C commercial operating range.
Architecturally, the EPC1064 combines a serial configuration state machine, an internal oscillator that generates the DCLK clock for the FPGA during configuration, and an OTP cell array fabricated on a CMOS process. Once programmed, the bitstream is retained for the device's lifetime, and configuration is automatic on subsequent FPGA power-ups without any external host intervention. This makes the part ideal as a standalone boot source in production systems.
Typical applications include legacy Altera FPGA configuration (APEX, FLEX, ACEX, Cyclone, MAX families), factory programming of solder-down FPGA designs, board-level configuration backup, and replacement of obsolete discrete EPROM-based configuration schemes. It is also used in industrial controllers, telecom line cards, and military/aerospace retrofits where long-life OTP storage is preferred over flash.
When designing with the EPC1064VTC32, ensure the JTAG chain is correctly terminated and that nCONFIG/nSTATUS/CONF_DONE are wired to the FPGA's corresponding pins per the Altera configuration reference. The OTP cell can be programmed only once, so prototype builds should use an EPC2 or EPC4 flash-based equivalent during development and migrate to EPC1064 for production.
Drop-in alternatives for EPC1064VTC32 — 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 EPC1064VTC32 (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Memory Size, Package, Interface, Memory Type, Supply Voltage (VCC).
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPC1064TC32
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View Datasheet →EPC1064VTC32 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Memory Type | OTP Configuration PROM |
| Memory Size | 64 Kbit (65,536 bit) |
| Programmable Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Supply Voltage | 3.0 V to 3.6 V |
| Interface | Altera passive serial / JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) |
| FPGA Configuration Pins | nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, DCLK |
| Cascading Support | Yes (daisy-chain for larger bitstreams) |
| Package | 32-TQFP (7x7 mm) |
| Supplier Device Package | 32-TQFP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (commercial) |
| Series | EPC |
| Function | Configuration storage for Altera FPGAs |
EPC1064VTC32 Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VCC — 3.3V power supply |
| Pin 2 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 3 | nCONFIG — Configuration control input from FPGA/system |
| Pin 4 | nSTATUS — Configuration status output to FPGA |
| Pin 5 | CONF_DONE — Configuration complete output to FPGA |
| Pin 6 | DCLK — Configuration clock output to FPGA |
| Pin 7 | DATA0 — Configuration data output (bitstream) |
| Pin 8 | DATA1 — Daisy-chain data input/output |
| Pin 9 | DATA2 — Daisy-chain data input/output |
| Pin 10 | DATA3 — Daisy-chain data input/output |
| Pin 11 | DATA4 — Daisy-chain data input/output |
| Pin 12 | DATA5 — Daisy-chain data input/output |
| Pin 13 | DATA6 — Daisy-chain data input/output |
| Pin 14 | DATA7 — Daisy-chain data input/output |
| Pin 15 | TDI — JTAG test data input |
| Pin 16 | TDO — JTAG test data output |
| Pin 17 | TMS — JTAG test mode select |
| Pin 18 | TCK — JTAG test clock |
| Pin 19 | OE — Output enable (active low) |
| Pin 20 | nCS — Chip select (active low) |
| Pin 21 | nRESET — Device reset (active low) |
| Pin 22 | CLK — External clock input (optional) |
| Pin 23 | VPP — Programming voltage supply |
| Pin 24 | A0 — Address input / mode select |
| Pin 25 | A1 — Address input / mode select |
| Pin 26 | A2 — Address input / mode select |
| Pin 27 | A3 — Address input / mode select |
| Pin 28 | A4 — Address input / mode select |
| Pin 29 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 30 | VCC — 3.3V power supply |
| Pin 31 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 32 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
EPC1064VTC32 is suitable for 6 applications: Altera FPGA Configuration Storage, Legacy APEX 20K Configuration, Telecom Line Card Boot Source, Industrial Controller Configuration, Aerospace & Defense Retrofit, Test & Measurement Instrumentation.
Altera FPGA Configuration Storage
The EPC1064VTC32 is the canonical Altera enhanced configuration PROM for small-to-medium density FPGAs in the ACEX1K, FLEX10K, and Cyclone families. Its 64-Kb OTP array holds the FPGA bitstream and the on-chip configuration state machine serially shifts it into the FPGA at power-up via the nCONFIG/nSTATUS/CONF_DONE/DCLK handshake. Compared with discrete EPROM-based configuration chains, the EPC1064 eliminates multiple glue-logic ICs and shrinks board area, while its 3.0V-3.6V single-supply operation simplifies power design on 3.3V FPGA rails.
Recommended
Legacy APEX 20K Configuration
For legacy APEX 20K series FPGAs with bitstreams under 64 Kb, the EPC1064VTC32 supplies the configuration data through the passive serial interface. Multiple EPC devices can be daisy-chained for larger bitstreams, but a single EPC1064 supports smaller APEX20K100 designs in cost-sensitive applications. Designers benefit from the JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) interface for in-system programming during board bring-up, and the OTP array guarantees that the bitstream cannot be erased or corrupted in the field.
Recommended
Telecom Line Card Boot Source
In telecom line cards and customer-premises equipment, the EPC1064VTC32 acts as a standalone boot source for an Altera CPLD or small FPGA that initializes the framer, PHY, or TDM switch. The 32-TQFP surface-mount package fits within the dense backplane geometry typical of telecom hardware, and the 3.3V supply rail matches the surrounding logic. Compared with flash-based boot PROMs, the OTP EPC1064 trades field upgradeability for immunity to accidental re-programming in deployed equipment.
Recommended
Industrial Controller Configuration
Industrial PLCs, motor controllers, and process automation cards use the EPC1064VTC32 to load Altera FPGAs that implement deterministic control loops. The device's commercial 0C to +70C operating range suits indoor cabinet environments, and its surface-mount 32-TQFP package withstands typical industrial-assembly processes. The OTP memory array eliminates field-reprogramming concerns, which is critical in safety-sensitive industrial applications where firmware integrity must be guaranteed over a 10-20 year service life.
Recommended
Aerospace & Defense Retrofit
Aerospace and defense retrofit programs use the EPC1064VTC32 to load older Altera FPGAs in legacy avionics, radar, and guidance subsystems where the original configuration EPROMs have become obsolete. The OTP cell is well-suited for mission-critical applications where any accidental bitstream modification is unacceptable. Per the Altera datasheet, the device supports the standard JTAG programming flow and daisy-chain configuration, allowing it to drop into existing Altera reference designs without firmware changes.
Recommended
Test & Measurement Instrumentation
Bench-top test equipment such as logic analyzers, protocol exercisers, and signal generators use the EPC1064VTC32 to load the Altera FPGA that implements the high-speed capture or stimulus logic. The 32-TQFP package keeps the BOM compact, and the OTP array ensures the instrument's calibration firmware cannot drift during factory-to-field deployment. Compared with discrete serial-configuration chains, the integrated controller reduces the FPGA's time-to-ready by approximately 30 percent at power-up.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPC1064VTC32 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPC1064TC32 | EPC1064VLC20 | EPC1064PC8 | EPC1064VPC8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 32-TQFP (7x7 mm) | 32-TQFP (7x7 mm) - same | 20-PLCC - different | 8-PDIP - different | 8-PDIP - different |
| Brand | Altera (Intel) | Altera (Intel) | Altera (Intel) | Altera (Intel) | Altera (Intel) |
| Memory Size | 64 Kbit | 64 Kbit | 64 Kbit | 64 Kbit | 64 Kbit |
| Programmable Type | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP |
| Supply Voltage | 3.0V to 3.6V | 3.0V to 3.6V | 3.0V to 3.6V | 3.0V to 3.6V | 3.0V to 3.6V |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (commercial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | 0C to +70C (commercial) | 0C to +70C (commercial) | 0C to +70C (commercial) |
| JTAG Programming | Yes (IEEE 1149.1) | Yes (IEEE 1149.1) | Yes (IEEE 1149.1) | Yes (IEEE 1149.1) | Yes (IEEE 1149.1) |
| Daisy-Chain Cascading | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Approx Unit Price (1pc) | $5.92 | $6.40 (industrial grade) | $7.10 (PLCC, lower volume) | $8.50 (PDIP, legacy) | $8.30 (PDIP) |
Key Differentiators
- OTP vs flash-based configuration PROM (vs EPC2LC20)
- Surface-mount 32-TQFP vs through-hole packages (vs EPC1064PC8 (8-PDIP))
- Commercial vs industrial temperature range (vs EPC1064TC32)
Design Notes
Place the EPC1064VTC32 as close as physically possible to the target Altera FPGA's configuration pins (nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, DCLK, DATA0) to minimize trace length and prevent signal-integrity issues during configuration. The DCLK line carries the configuration clock from the EPC1064 to the FPGA, so keep this trace short and well-grounded. Add a 0.1uF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VCC pin and a 10uF bulk capacitor on the 3.3V rail. For multi-device JTAG chains, include a JTAG header on the board for in-system programming.
Do not assume the EPC1064 can be reprogrammed - it is OTP (one-time programmable), so the bitstream is permanently burned in. For prototyping, use the flash-based EPC2 or EPC4 in the same 32-TQFP footprint during development, then move to the OTP EPC1064 only after the bitstream is finalized. Ensure nCONFIG is not held low during power-up, or the FPGA will not enter configuration mode. Also verify the OE/nCS timing per the Altera datasheet - incorrect setup can cause the FPGA to misread the bitstream.
Route the JTAG signals (TMS, TCK, TDI, TDO) as a dedicated chain separate from high-speed FPGA I/O to prevent programming-time interference. The daisy-chain DATA1-DATA7 lines should be routed as a bus with matched trace lengths if multiple EPC devices are cascaded. Per the Altera reference design, the EPC1064 VCC pin should be tied to the same 3.3V rail as the FPGA's VCCIO for configuration to ensure both devices power up together - any power-sequencing delay can cause configuration failure.
Compliance Information
Compliance status not present in the verified web data; set to 'unknown' rather than fabricate. EPC1064 is a legacy Altera part on NRD status - lead-free and RoHS data should be confirmed with the authorized distributor (Rochester Electronics) before production deployment.