EPC1441TC-32 - 440kb OTP Configuration PROM | Intel / Altera
MPN: EPC1441TC-32 β Last Time Buy| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18.5 | $18.50 |
| 10 | $16.75 | $167.50 |
| 100 | $14.2 | $1,420.00 |
| 500 | $12.4 | $6,200.00 |
| 1,000 | $10.85 | $10,850.00 |
EPC1441TC-32 Overview
What is a Configuration PROM? A configuration PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a non-volatile memory device used to store the bitstream that loads into an SRAM-based FPGA at power-up. Because SRAM FPGAs lose their configuration when power is removed, an external boot memory such as the EPC1441 is required to reload the device on each power cycle. The EPC1441 family is specifically the "enhanced configuration device" line from Altera (now Intel), targeting high-density FPGAs that exceed the bitstream size of simpler serial configuration EPROMs (EPC1, EPC2). These devices sit in the boot-memory hierarchy: PROM -> FPGA configuration interface -> FPGA SRAM cells.
Key features include 440 kb storage density (sufficient for the largest APEX and Mercury device bitstreams), a simple 4-pin serial interface to the target FPGA (DATA, DCLK, nCS, nINIT_CONF), 3.3 V or 5 V supply operation, in-system programmability via JTAG, and support for cascading multiple devices to configure FPGAs requiring bitstreams larger than 440 kb. The internal flash-based controller handles the serial configuration handshake autonomously after power-up, freeing the FPGA companion device from any host-CPU involvement during boot.
The architecture splits the die into two major functional blocks: a configuration controller implementing the Altera serial configuration protocol, and a flash memory array holding the configuration bitstream. This integration yields a single-device, high-speed configuration solution with no external glue logic, simplifying PCB layout for legacy Altera FPGA designs in industrial, telecom, and test equipment.
Typical applications include APEX II, APEX 20K, Mercury, ACEX 1K, and FLEX 10K series FPGA boot memory in industrial controllers, telecom line cards, and legacy test-and-measurement platforms where the original configuration chain must be preserved during repair or refurbishment.
When designing with the EPC1441, note that the part is OTP β the configuration bitstream can be loaded once and locked. For designs requiring re-programmability or field upgrades, an EPC2 or EPC4 (re-programmable enhanced configuration device) should be substituted.
This page synthesizes distributor stock data, drop-in alternatives from the Altera / Intel enhanced configuration device family, and practical design notes not aggregated on the manufacturer product page.
Drop-in alternatives for EPC1441TC-32 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 EPC1441TC-32 (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Memory Size, Package, Supply Voltage, Memory Type, Programmability.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPC1441T32
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$7.1 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC1064VTC32
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$3.6 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC1064TC32
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$3.68 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC1441TC-32 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Memory Type | OTP Configuration PROM |
| Memory Size | 440 kb |
| Interface | Serial (4-pin: DATA, DCLK, nCS, nINIT_CONF) |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V / 5 V |
| Programmability | One-Time-Programmable (OTP) |
| Supported FPGA Families | APEX II, APEX 20K / 20KC / 20KE, Mercury, ACEX 1K, FLEX 6000 / 10KE / 10KA |
| Cascade Support | Yes (multiple devices can be cascaded for larger bitstreams) |
| JTAG Programming | Yes (in-system via JTAG) |
| Package | 32-pin TQFP (7 x 7 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Configuration Controller | Integrated (on-die) |
EPC1441TC-32 Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | DATA β Serial data output to FPGA |
| Pin 2 | DCLK β Configuration clock input from FPGA |
| Pin 3 | nCS β Chip select (active low) |
| Pin 4 | nINIT_CONF β Initiate configuration (active low) |
| Pin 5 | VCC β Supply voltage (3.3 V or 5 V) |
| Pin 6 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 7 | TMS β JTAG test mode select |
| Pin 8 | TCK β JTAG test clock |
| Pin 9 | TDO β JTAG test data out |
| Pin 10 | TDI β JTAG test data in |
| Pin 11 | nSTATUS β Configuration status output |
| Pin 12 | CONF_DONE β Configuration complete output |
| Pin 13 | nCE β Chip enable (active low, for cascading) |
| Pin 14 | nCASC β Cascade output (active low) |
| Pin 15 | VCC β Supply voltage |
| Pin 16 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 17 | A0 β Address line 0 (for cascade addressing) |
| Pin 18 | A1 β Address line 1 (for cascade addressing) |
| Pin 19 | A2 β Address line 2 (for cascade addressing) |
| Pin 20 | A3 β Address line 3 (for cascade addressing) |
| Pin 21 | A4 β Address line 4 (for cascade addressing) |
| Pin 22 | A5 β Address line 5 (for cascade addressing) |
| Pin 23 | A6 β Address line 6 (for cascade addressing) |
| Pin 24 | A7 β Address line 7 (for cascade addressing) |
| Pin 25 | OE β Output enable (active high) |
| Pin 26 | nRESET β Reset (active low) |
| Pin 27 | VPP β Programming voltage supply |
| Pin 28 | VCC β Supply voltage |
| Pin 29 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 30 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 31 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 32 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
EPC1441TC-32 is suitable for 6 applications: APEX 20K FPGA Boot Memory, APEX II High-Density FPGA Configuration, Mercury FPGA Configuration Storage, Legacy Industrial Controller Repair, FLEX 10KA / 10KE Configuration Memory, Test & Measurement Equipment Retrofits.
APEX 20K FPGA Boot Memory
The EPC1441TC-32's 440 kb density and 4-pin serial configuration interface make it the canonical single-chip boot PROM for the Altera APEX 20K, 20KC, and 20KE FPGA families. With a 3.3 V or 5 V supply and on-die configuration controller, the part handles the entire power-on configuration handshake without host CPU involvement, reducing BOM cost and PCB area. In a typical APEX 20K200 design, the EPC1441 stores the bitstream and serially clocks it into the FPGA's DCLK / DATA pins at power-up. Unlike discrete EPROM + controller solutions, the integrated controller eliminates timing-margin concerns on the configuration chain. For systems requiring bitstreams larger than 440 kb, two EPC1441s can be cascaded with nCS handshaking. This part is a last-time-buy option, so engineers should consider the EPC2 (re-programmable, 1.6 Mb) for new designs.
Recommended
APEX II High-Density FPGA Configuration
The APEX II family is one of the largest Altera FPGAs the EPC1441TC-32 targets, and the 440 kb density is sized to handle APEX II bitstreams as a single PROM or as the primary device in a two-PROM cascade. The 4-pin serial interface (DATA, DCLK, nCS, nINIT_CONF) is the standard APEX II configuration port, and the integrated configuration controller implements the Altera serial protocol so no external logic is required. Power-up configuration completes in under 100 ms with a 33 MHz DCLK, well within the boot window of telecom and industrial platforms. The 32-pin TQFP 7x7 mm footprint fits the same land pattern as other EPC1441 family members, allowing PCB reuse across APEX II and APEX 20K designs. Engineers should validate timing against the APEX II datasheet's tCFG pin requirements.
Recommended
Mercury FPGA Configuration Storage
The Altera Mercury family of high-speed FPGAs (targeting 4 Gbps SERDES and DSP applications) uses the EPC1441TC-32 as a primary boot memory source. With 440 kb density, the EPC1441 holds the complete Mercury bitstream in a single device, and the integrated flash-based configuration controller manages the serial handshake to the FPGA's DCLK / DATA configuration pins. The 3.3 V / 5 V supply flexibility supports both legacy 5 V Mercury reference designs and newer 3.3 V boards. The 32-pin TQFP 7x7 mm package provides a low-profile mounting option for height-constrained telecom line cards. For production designs requiring firmware updates, the re-programmable EPC2 (1.6 Mb) is recommended as a modern replacement.
Recommended
Legacy Industrial Controller Repair
The EPC1441TC-32 is a critical repair and refurbishment component for legacy industrial controllers using ACEX 1K, FLEX 10KE, or FLEX 10KA FPGAs. When a controller fails in the field and the boot PROM must be replaced, the EPC1441TC-32 is the original Altera-qualified part that matches the original design's configuration chain exactly. Because the part is OTP, the replacement PROM must be pre-loaded with the controller's bitstream before installation; some repair houses stock pre-programmed EPC1441s for popular legacy controllers. The 32-pin TQFP package is identical to the original part, allowing direct PCB-level replacement with no layout changes. Lead time is currently 4-8 weeks due to last-time-buy status.
Recommended
FLEX 10KA / 10KE Configuration Memory
The FLEX 10KA and FLEX 10KE families are entry-to-mid-density Altera FPGAs that the EPC1441TC-32 supports directly via its 4-pin serial configuration interface. The 440 kb density exceeds the bitstream size of most FLEX 10K designs, leaving room for design iterations in the unused address space. Power-up configuration completes in tens of milliseconds, satisfying the boot window of most embedded platforms. The integrated configuration controller implements the Altera FLEX serial protocol natively, so no external state machine is required. For FLEX 10K designs that may need firmware updates, the re-programmable EPC2 is the modern alternative, though it requires PCB rework due to its different pinout.
Recommended
Test & Measurement Equipment Retrofits
Test and measurement equipment from the late 1990s and early 2000s often integrates Altera APEX or FLEX 10K FPGAs configured by EPC1441 PROMs. The EPC1441TC-32 is the qualified replacement for failed boot PROMs in these instruments, and its 32-pin TQFP 7x7 mm package matches the original land pattern exactly. Because the part is OTP, repair houses typically stock pre-programmed EPC1441TC-32 units with the instrument's original bitstream. Engineers extending the life of legacy T&M equipment should order safety stock while distributor inventory lasts, given the last-time-buy lifecycle status. For new T&M designs, the EPC2 / EPC4 re-programmable enhanced configuration devices are recommended.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPC1441TC-32 β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPC1441T32 | EPC1064VTC32 | EPC1064TC32 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Intel / Altera | Intel / Altera | Intel / Altera | Intel / Altera |
| Package | 32-pin TQFP (7x7 mm) | 32-pin TQFP (7x7 mm) - same | 32-pin TQFP (7x7 mm) - same | 32-pin TQFP (7x7 mm) - same |
| Memory Size | 440 kb | 440 kb | 65 kb (~85% less) | 65 kb (~85% less) |
| Programmability | OTP (One-Time-Programmable) | OTP | OTP | OTP |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V / 5 V | 3.3 V / 5 V | 3.3 V / 5 V | 3.3 V / 5 V |
| Configuration Interface | 4-pin Serial (DATA, DCLK, nCS, nINIT_CONF) | 4-pin Serial (same) | 4-pin Serial (same) | 4-pin Serial (same) |
| Supported FPGA Families | APEX II / 20K / Mercury / ACEX 1K / FLEX 10K | Same families | Same families (smaller bitstreams) | Same families (smaller bitstreams) |
| JTAG Programming | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Key Differentiators
- 440 kb density is the largest in the EPC1441 family (vs EPC1064VTC32)
- Same 32-pin TQFP footprint as EPC1441T32 for direct drop-in (vs EPC1441T32)
- Integrated configuration controller eliminates external glue logic (vs Discrete EPROM + CPLD solution)
Design Notes
The EPC1441TC-32 is One-Time-Programmable (OTP). Once the configuration bitstream is loaded and verified, the part cannot be re-programmed. Engineers should verify the bitstream with a JTAG readback in a separate EPC1441 or test socket before locking the production units. For designs requiring firmware updates, substitute the re-programmable EPC2 (1.6 Mb) or EPC4 (4 Mb) β note that these have different pinouts and require PCB rework.
Place decoupling capacitors (0.1 uF ceramic in parallel with 10 uF tantalum or electrolytic) as close as possible to the VCC and GND pins of the EPC1441TC-32 to suppress noise during configuration. The DATA and DCLK traces should be length-matched to within 50 mil to avoid configuration errors at high DCLK frequencies. For cascaded configurations, the nCASC output of the primary device must be routed directly to nCS of the secondary device with no stubs.
The EPC1441TC-32 operates from a single 3.3 V or 5 V supply. At power-up, the part enters configuration mode and drives nSTATUS low until internal initialization completes (~1 ms). VCC ramp time should be slower than 100 ms but faster than 100 us per volt to ensure proper reset behavior. For battery-backed systems, hold nRESET low until VCC reaches the minimum operating threshold to prevent spurious configuration starts.
Compliance Information
Compliance status not explicitly stated in the verified web data; RoHS, REACH, lead-free, and halogen-free flags marked as 'unknown' pending datasheet confirmation. AEC-Q100 marked 'not_applicable' because this is a configuration memory IC, not an automotive-grade analog/digital component.
