EPC144ILC-20 - 440kb OTP Configuration PROM | Altera | PLCC-20
MPN: EPC144ILC-20 ⚠ Last Time Buy| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $12.8 | $12.80 |
| 10 | $10.5 | $105.00 |
| 100 | $7.25 | $725.00 |
| 500 | $5.4 | $2,700.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.85 | $3,850.00 |
EPC144ILC-20 Overview
A configuration PROM (programmable read-only memory) is a non-volatile memory IC that retains FPGA configuration data when system power is removed. During board power-up the FPGA, operating in passive configuration mode, sources a configuration clock and reads the bitstream serially from the PROM. Unlike flash-based configuration devices, OTP PROMs are written only once (usually by Altera or a programming house) and cannot be re-programmed in-circuit, which lowers cost for production volumes where the bitstream is finalized. The EPC144 family represents Altera's second-generation configuration memory, replacing earlier EPC1/EPC2 devices with higher density and lower standby current.
Key features include 440 Kb of storage capacity, a low-pin-count serial interface, 5.0 V single-supply operation, and CMOS standby current below 50 uA. The EPC144ILC-20 supports Altera's FPP (fast passive parallel) and PS (passive serial) configuration modes, and its JTAG-less simple interface minimizes board complexity in cost-sensitive applications.
The architecture is based on an anti-fuse or fuse-link OTP cell array with on-chip address counter and serial shift register, allowing autonomous streaming of configuration data without external clock stretching. Programming is performed via Altera's dedicated programmer hardware; field re-programming is not supported, which is why EPC144 parts are typically ordered pre-programmed with customer bitstreams.
Typical applications include Cyclone-series FPGA configuration memory, ACEX 1K starter boards, APEX 20K evaluation platforms, industrial control boards using Altera MAX 7000-series FPGAs, and legacy telecom line-card designs. The PLCC-20 package is through-hole-friendly and socketable, simplifying rework and field replacement.
When designing with this device, ensure that the FPGA's configuration mode pins select passive serial mode (MSEL pins strapped appropriately) and that the PROM's nCS/nCE pin is tied to the FPGA's nCONFIG-driven chip-select logic. Designers should also verify that 440 Kb of storage is sufficient for the target FPGA; larger devices such as FPGAs with >30 K logic elements may require the EPC8 or EPC16 density steps.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative MPNs, and practical configuration design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet to help engineers select, source, and design in the EPC144ILC-20 confidently.
Drop-in alternatives for EPC144ILC-20 — 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 EPC144ILC-20 (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Memory Type, Package, Mounting Type, Supply Voltage, Configuration Interface.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPC1441LC20N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$7.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC1441LC20
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
Contact for price
View Datasheet →EPC1441-LC20
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$1.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC144LI20N
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
EPC1441LI20N
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$4.29 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC1441LI20
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$8.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC144ILC-20 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Memory Type | OTP Configuration PROM (one-time programmable) |
| Memory Size | 440 kb (kilobits) |
| Configuration Interface | Serial (Altera proprietary PS mode) |
| Supply Voltage | 5.0 V (typical) |
| Standby Current | < 50 uA (CMOS standby) |
| Programmable | No (factory-programmed by Altera or distributor) |
| Package | 20-pin PLCC (J-lead) |
| Compatible FPGA Families | Cyclone, ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, MAX 7000-series |
| Configuration Mode Support | PS (passive serial) and FPP (fast passive parallel) |
| JTAG Interface | Not present |
| End-of-Life Status | Last-time-buy (per Altera product change notifications) |
| Lead-Free / RoHS | Depends on date code; non-RoHS vintage stock common |
| Programming Method | Altera dedicated PROM programmer hardware |
| Data Retention | Permanent (anti-fuse OTP cell, no retention concern) |
| Pin Count | 20 |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount (PLCC J-lead) |
EPC144ILC-20 Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | DATA — Serial data output to FPGA |
| Pin 2 | DCLK — Configuration clock input from FPGA |
| Pin 3 | nCS — Chip select, active low |
| Pin 4 | nCASC — Cascade output for daisy-chain configuration |
| Pin 5 | OE — Output enable, active low |
| Pin 6 | VCC — 5V supply |
| Pin 7 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 8 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 9 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 10 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 11 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 12 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 13 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 14 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 15 | nINIT_CONF — Initiate configuration (legacy Altera pin) |
| Pin 16 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 17 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 18 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 19 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 20 | GND — Ground |
Typical Applications
EPC144ILC-20 is suitable for 7 applications: Altera Cyclone FPGA Configuration, ACEX 1K Family Board Bring-Up, APEX 20K Configuration Memory, MAX 7000-Series CPLD Configuration Backup, Industrial Control FPGA Boards, Legacy Telecom Line-Card Designs, Evaluation and Development Boards.
Altera Cyclone FPGA Configuration
The EPC144ILC-20 stores the 440 Kb configuration bitstream that loads into Altera Cyclone-series FPGAs at board power-up. Its passive serial interface streams the bitstream one bit per DCLK cycle, while the FPGA's configuration controller handles decompression, CRC check, and start-up sequencing. The 440 Kb density is sufficient for Cyclone EP1C3, EP1C4, and smaller Cyclone II devices (EP2C5/EP2C8). For larger Cyclone parts exceeding 440 Kb, choose EPCS4 or EPC8 instead.
Recommended
ACEX 1K Family Board Bring-Up
The EPC144ILC-20 is commonly used to configure ACEX 1K EP1K10, EP1K30, and EP1K50 FPGAs in legacy industrial and telecom designs. The 440 Kb density matches the bitstream size of EP1K10/30, while EP1K50 may require a higher-density EPC8. The PLCC-20 socketed package is preferred in ACEX 1K designs because field-replacement is straightforward when the bitstream needs updating.
Recommended
APEX 20K Configuration Memory
The EPC144ILC-20 configures APEX 20K EP20K100 and smaller EP20K200 devices whose bitstreams fit within 440 Kb. Larger APEX 20K and APEX II parts exceed the 440 Kb capacity and require the EPC8 or EPC16. The OTP PROM's fast read access (~30 ns) supports the configuration clock rates required by APEX 20K's passive serial interface without throughput bottlenecks.
Recommended
MAX 7000-Series CPLD Configuration Backup
The EPC144ILC-20 is sometimes used as a non-volatile configuration backup for MAX 7000S/A/B and MAX 3000A CPLD designs that require field-replaceable configuration memory. The PLCC-20 socket simplifies removal and reprogramming during CPLD firmware updates. Note that most MAX 7000 designs use the CPLD's built-in EEPROM and do not require an external PROM.
Recommended
Industrial Control FPGA Boards
Industrial control boards using Altera Cyclone or ACEX 1K FPGAs often rely on the EPC144ILC-20 for configuration because the PLCC-20 package is socketed and supports field replacement in long-life industrial equipment (10-20 year service). The OTP nature is acceptable because the bitstream is finalized at product release. PLCC-20 sockets also withstand industrial thermal cycling and vibration better than SOIC alternatives.
Recommended
Legacy Telecom Line-Card Designs
The EPC144ILC-20 configures Altera FPGAs in legacy telecom line-card and base-station equipment where the design was qualified against the PLCC-20 footprint. Last-time-buy status has prompted telecom OEMs to stockpile the part for maintenance contracts. Drop-in replacement with the EPC1441LC20N is acceptable provided the date-code RoHS status meets the OEM's bill-of-materials policy.
Recommended
Evaluation and Development Boards
Altera's Cyclone and ACEX 1K development kits historically used the EPC144ILC-20 as the on-board configuration memory because of its low cost and easy socketed replacement. The PLCC-20 socket allows students and engineers to swap pre-programmed PROMs to test multiple bitstream revisions. Modern kits use EPCS4 or EPCQ16 flash devices, but the EPC144ILC-20 remains present on older Nios and Cyclone dev kits.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPC144ILC-20 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPC1441LC20N | EPC1441LC20 | EPC1441-LC20 | EPC1441LI20N | EPC1441LI20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | PLCC-20 | PLCC-20 (same) | PLCC-20 (same) | PLCC-20 (same) | PLCC-20 (same) | PLCC-20 (same) |
| Brand | Altera (Intel FPGA) | Altera (Intel FPGA) | Altera (Intel FPGA) | Altera (Intel FPGA) | Altera (Intel FPGA) | Altera (Intel FPGA) |
| Memory Size | 440 kb | 440 kb | 440 kb | 440 kb | 440 kb | 440 kb |
| Configuration Interface | Altera passive serial (PS) | Altera passive serial (PS) | Altera passive serial (PS) | Altera passive serial (PS) | Altera passive serial (PS) | Altera passive serial (PS) |
| Programmable | OTP (factory only) | OTP (factory only) | OTP (factory only) | OTP (factory only) | OTP (factory only) | OTP (factory only) |
| Supply Voltage | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V |
| Lead-Free / RoHS Status | Varies by date code (vintage stock often non-RoHS) | Lead-free (N suffix) | Varies by date code | Varies by date code | Lead-free (N suffix) | Varies by date code |
| Lifecycle Status | Last-time-buy | Last-time-buy | Last-time-buy | Last-time-buy | Last-time-buy | Last-time-buy |
Key Differentiators
- Second-generation Altera configuration PROM with 440 Kb density (vs EPC2 (older Altera configuration device))
- PLCC-20 socketed package simplifies field replacement (vs EPCS4 (SOIC-8 surface mount))
- OTP cell with permanent data retention (vs EPCS-series flash configuration memory)
Design Notes
Place the EPC144ILC-20 within 50 mm of the target FPGA's configuration pins (DATA, DCLK, nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE) to minimize signal-integrity issues. Use a 100 ohm series termination on the DCLK line if the trace exceeds 25 mm. Keep the PROM away from switching power supply inductors and route DATA on a layer adjacent to a solid ground plane to reduce coupled noise during configuration.
The EPC144ILC-20 is one-time programmable and CANNOT be re-programmed in-circuit. Once programmed with a customer's bitstream, the device is permanent - any FPGA firmware revision requires physical PROM replacement or moving to a flash-based EPCS device. Also note that the EPC144ILC-20 supports only 440 Kb, so designs targeting larger FPGAs (Stratix, large Cyclone III/IV, or any APEX 20K above EP20K100) must select a higher-density EPC8/EPC16 or EPCS4/EPCS16 part instead.
Estimated: the EPC144ILC-20 draws approximately 30 mA during active configuration streaming and below 50 uA in CMOS standby. Decouple VCC with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the PLCC-20 supply pin. For multi-PROM cascade configurations, add a 10 uF tantalum or ceramic bulk capacitor near the PROM bank to suppress supply droop during simultaneous cascade initialization.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free status depends on date code. Vintage EPC144ILC-20 stock (pre-2005) is typically non-RoHS SnPb finish; later date codes and 'N' suffix variants are lead-free. AEC-Q100 is not applicable because this is a configuration memory IC, not an automotive-grade semiconductor. Compliance certificates should be requested from the specific distributor based on the manufacturing date code of the stock being shipped.
