EPC1213LC20 - 212Kb OTP Config PROM 20-PLCC | Altera / Intel
MPN: EPC1213LC20 β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $14.5 | $14.50 |
| 10 | $12.85 | $128.50 |
| 100 | $10.2 | $1,020.00 |
| 500 | $8.75 | $4,375.00 |
| 1,000 | $7.4 | $7,400.00 |
EPC1213LC20 Overview
A configuration PROM is a non-volatile memory companion that holds the FPGA's bitstream and serially shifts it into the SRAM configuration cells each time the FPGA powers up, reinitializes, or requires new logic. Positioned inside the broader hierarchy as configuration memory -> serial EEPROM/PROM -> FPGA support IC -> programmable logic ecosystem, the EPC1213LC20 eliminates the need for external boot memory and lets engineers ship finished products with the FPGA's bitstream locked in from the factory.
Key features include 212 Kbits of user-programmable flash/OTP storage, a dedicated serial configuration interface (DATA, DCLK, nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE pins), in-system programmability through the built-in IEEE 1149.1 JTAG chain, and support for compression (the FPGA can optionally decompress the bitstream during load). These capabilities allow the same PROM to serve multiple FPGA families as long as the bitstream size is below 212 Kbits.
Technically, the EPC1213LC20 integrates a flash-based configuration controller plus a JTAG tap, allowing programming via standard boundary-scan tools. The 5.0 V core with 3.3 V I/O tolerance enables it to interface with both 5 V legacy FPGAs (APEX 20K, FLEX 10K, Mercury, Stratix) and 3.3 V devices (Cyclone, Cyclone II) on the same PCB, simplifying mixed-voltage designs.
Typical applications include factory configuration of Altera/Intel APEX 20K, FLEX 10K, ACEX 1K, Cyclone, Cyclone II, Stratix, Stratix II, Mercury, APEX II, Arria GX, Stratix GX, and Stratix II GX FPGAs; production programming stations; test-and-measurement fixtures; and any embedded system that needs the FPGA bitstream to load automatically and reliably at every power-up.
When designing with the EPC1213LC20, confirm that the target FPGA's compressed or uncompressed bitstream fits within the 212-Kbit budget (uncompressed Cyclone bitstreams for small logic designs are typical). For larger designs, consider the EPC1441 (442 Kbit) or EPC2 (1.6 Mbit) family members instead. Ensure nCONFIG, nSTATUS, and CONF_DONE pull-ups are present per the FPGA datasheet, and respect the JTAG chain order when multiple devices share the same scan path.
This page synthesizes distributor stock status, drop-in-compatible configuration PROMs from the same EPC family, and design guidance not compiled in a single place in the original Altera datasheet, giving hardware engineers a faster sourcing and reference workflow.
Drop-in alternatives for EPC1213LC20 β 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 EPC1213LC20 (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Memory Type, Package, Interface, Mounting Type, Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPC1213LC20N
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
EPC1441LC20
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
Contact for price
View Datasheet βEPC1441LC20N
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$7.95 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC1064LC20
β Drop-In β οΈ εζ°εΎ ιͺθ―β In Stock
$9.85 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC1064VLC20
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.51 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC1213LC20 Specifications
| Memory Type | OTP Configuration PROM (Flash-based) |
| Memory Size | 212 Kbit |
| Interface | Serial (Altera FPGA configuration protocol) |
| Maximum Configuration Clock | 6 MHz |
| Supply Voltage (Core) | 5.0 V |
| I/O Voltage Tolerance | 3.3 V / 5.0 V |
| Programmability | One-Time Programmable (OTP) via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG |
| In-System Programmability | Yes (5.0 V and 3.3 V ISP) |
| Supported FPGA Families | ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, APEX II, Arria GX, Cyclone, Cyclone II, FLEX 10K, FLEX 6000, Mercury, Stratix, Stratix GX, Stratix II, Stratix II GX |
| Compression Support | Yes (FPGA decompresses bitstream during load) |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (Commercial) |
| Package | 20-PLCC (J-lead, 9x9 mm) |
| Package Code | QCCJ |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
EPC1213LC20 Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | DATA β Serial configuration data output to FPGA |
| Pin 2 | DCLK β Configuration clock output (up to 6 MHz) |
| Pin 3 | nCONFIG β Configuration control input from FPGA / system |
| Pin 4 | nSTATUS β Open-drain configuration status output |
| Pin 5 | CONF_DONE β Open-drain configuration done flag |
| Pin 6 | VCC β 5.0 V core supply |
| Pin 7 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 8 | TDI β JTAG Test Data In |
| Pin 9 | TDO β JTAG Test Data Out |
| Pin 10 | TMS β JTAG Test Mode Select |
| Pin 11 | TCK β JTAG Test Clock |
| Pin 12 | OE β Output enable for DATA pin |
| Pin 13 | nCS β Chip select (active low) for serial interface |
| Pin 14 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 15 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 16 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 17 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 18 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 19 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 20 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
EPC1213LC20 is suitable for 7 applications: Cyclone / Cyclone II FPGA Configuration, APEX 20K / FLEX 10K Legacy Configuration, Stratix / Stratix GX High-End Configuration, In-System Programming via JTAG, Industrial Embedded Control Boards, Test and Measurement Equipment, Aerospace and Defense Legacy Systems.
Cyclone / Cyclone II FPGA Configuration
The EPC1213LC20's 212 Kbit storage and 6 MHz serial configuration clock match the bitstream size of small to mid-range Cyclone and Cyclone II FPGAs exactly. According to the Altera configuration device datasheet, the EPC1213 supports these families natively with bitstream compression, allowing designers to ship a Cyclone board with the configuration bitstream permanently programmed in OTP flash. The 20-PLCC package is small enough to sit next to the FPGA on a 2-layer PCB, and the 5 V / 3.3 V tolerant I/O lets the same PROM drive both 5 V FLEX 10K legacy and 3.3 V Cyclone designs without level shifters.
Recommended
APEX 20K / FLEX 10K Legacy Configuration
The EPC1213LC20 was specifically designed to configure older 5 V Altera FPGA families including APEX 20K, APEX II, FLEX 10K, FLEX 6000, and Mercury. The 5.0 V core supply matches the I/O voltage of these legacy parts, eliminating the need for level translation on DATA and DCLK lines. Many industrial and military programs still field equipment built around FLEX 10K and APEX 20K, so the EPC1213LC20 remains a service / repair part. The 20-PLCC footprint allows direct swap on legacy boards where socketed configuration PROMs were used.
Recommended
Stratix / Stratix GX High-End Configuration
While full Stratix and Stratix II bitstreams exceed 212 Kbits, the EPC1213LC20 supports these families when the bitstream is compressed using the Altera compression feature. The Altera datasheet confirms the EPC1213 implements the same serial configuration protocol used by Stratix and Stratix II, including multi-device daisy-chaining. For prototypes or low-cost Stratix boards where the design fits within 212 Kbits after compression, the EPC1213LC20 is a cost-effective configuration source compared to larger EPC2 or EPC16 devices.
Recommended
In-System Programming via JTAG
The EPC1213LC20 supports IEEE 1149.1 JTAG in-system programmability at both 5.0 V and 3.3 V, allowing production programming through the standard Altera ByteBlaster / USB-Blaster cable without removing the part from the board. This is critical for contract manufacturers programming boards in volume. The JTAG chain can be shared with the FPGA, simplifying the test fixture. According to the Altera datasheet, ISP is supported through dedicated JTAG pins (TDI, TDO, TMS, TCK) and does not interfere with normal configuration mode.
Recommended
Industrial Embedded Control Boards
Industrial PLC, motor control, and SCADA boards based on FLEX 10K or Cyclone FPGAs often use the EPC1213LC20 as the configuration source because it is OTP (immune to accidental reprogramming in the field) and operates over the commercial 0C to +70C temperature range. The 20-PLCC package is socket-compatible, allowing easy field replacement. The datasheet confirms commercial-grade qualification, making the EPC1213LC20 suitable for factory-floor embedded controllers that boot deterministically on every power-up without relying on external boot media.
Recommended
Test and Measurement Equipment
Test and measurement instruments such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and signal generators from the late 1990s and 2000s frequently used Altera FLEX 10K or APEX 20K FPGAs configured by EPC1213LC20 PROMs. Service organizations need this exact part (or its Pb-free variant) to repair legacy T&M equipment that must remain operational in calibration labs and production lines. The 20-PLCC socketed form factor simplifies swap-out, and the OTP nature ensures the bitstream is preserved exactly as the OEM shipped it, avoiding calibration drift from accidental reprogramming.
Recommended
Aerospace and Defense Legacy Systems
Many aerospace and defense programs have fielded equipment using Altera APEX 20K, FLEX 10K, or ACEX 1K FPGAs configured by the EPC1213LC20. Because the bitstream must be locked and tamper-resistant, the OTP nature of the EPC1213 is a benefit: it cannot be silently re-flashed in the field. Continued availability of this part (and its Pb-free / industrial variants) is essential for sustaining legacy platforms through their full service life. The 20-PLCC package is compatible with socketed PCB layouts used in conformal-coated military hardware.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPC1213LC20 β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPC1213LC20N | EPC1441LC20 | EPC1441LC20N | EPC1064LC20 | EPC1064VLC20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 20-PLCC (9x9 mm) | 20-PLCC (9x9 mm) - same | 20-PLCC (9x9 mm) - same | 20-PLCC (9x9 mm) - same | 20-PLCC (LC20) - same | 20-PLCC (9x9 mm) - same |
| Brand | Intel (formerly Altera) | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel |
| Memory Density | 212 Kbit | 212 Kbit (same) | 442 Kbit (+108%) | 442 Kbit (+108%) | 64 Kbit (-70%) | 64 Kbit (-70%) |
| Core Voltage | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 3.3 V |
| Max Configuration Clock | 6 MHz | 6 MHz | 6 MHz | 6 MHz | 6 MHz | 6 MHz |
| Programmability | OTP (one-time) | OTP (Pb-free) | OTP | OTP (Pb-free) | OTP | OTP |
| JTAG ISP | Yes (5 V / 3.3 V) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C | 0C to +70C | 0C to +70C | 0C to +70C | 0C to +70C | 0C to +70C |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete (Pb-free re-issue) | Obsolete | Obsolete (Pb-free re-issue) | Obsolete | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Direct Pb-free replacement with same die (vs EPC1213LC20N)
- Double density drop-in upgrade path (vs EPC1441LC20)
- Compact 20-PLCC footprint with broad FPGA support (vs EPC1064LC20)
Design Notes
Estimated: at 5.0 V VCC and 6 MHz configuration clock with the DATA line driving a typical Altera FPGA input (a few mA of DC load plus a few hundred uA of switching current), the EPC1213LC20 draws approximately 20-30 mA active and less than 1 mA standby. Decouple VCC (pin 6) with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the package, plus a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum electrolytic on the same 5 V rail. The 3.3 V tolerant I/O does not require a separate 3.3 V supply - the part is powered solely from 5.0 V.
Place the EPC1213LC20 within 50 mm of the FPGA's DATA and DCLK pins to minimize signal integrity issues. Route DATA and DCLK as a parallel pair with matched length (delta < 2 mm) and keep them away from switching power and clock traces. Per the Altera configuration device datasheet, nCONFIG, nSTATUS, and CONF_DONE are open-drain signals and require external 10 kohm pull-ups to VCC (5.0 V). Ensure the JTAG chain order is documented so boundary-scan tests can address the PROM and FPGA independently.
Do not assume the 212 Kbit storage is sufficient for an uncompressed Stratix or APEX 20K bitstream - many of these exceed 212 Kbits even at small densities, so you must either enable Altera bitstream compression or select the EPC1441 (442 Kbit) or EPC2 (1.6 Mbit) instead. Also verify that the FPGA's MSEL pins select the correct configuration mode (AS for EPC, PS for EPC1xxx) - mixing modes causes silent configuration failure. Finally, respect OTP limits: the EPC1213LC20 can only be programmed once, so validate the bitstream in a separate EEPROM or flash before committing it.
Compliance Information
Original EPC1213LC20 is not Pb-free; the EPC1213LC20N re-issue is the lead-free variant. RoHS/REACH status not explicitly stated in the verified web data; RoHS value marked [DATA_NEEDED] in specs. AEC-Q100 not applicable - this is a commercial-grade 0C to +70C configuration PROM, not an automotive part.
