Altera

EPC144LC-20 - Altera OTP Configuration PROM | 20-PLCC

MPN: EPC144LC-20 ✗ End of Life

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20-pin PLCC (J-lead) Package 20 ns Speed OTP EPROM (One-Time Programmable) Memory

From $7.15 USD / Unit

MOQ: 1 |

Price updated: 2026-09-10

Volume Pricing

Qty	Unit Price	Extended
1	$12.5	$12.50
10	$11.2	$112.00
100	$9.85	$985.00
500	$8.4	$4,200.00
1,000	$7.15	$7,150.00

ℹ️ All prices are in USD

View Datasheet (PDF) View Alternatives

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EPC144LC-20 Overview

The Intel / Altera EPC144LC-20 is an OTP (One-Time Programmable) configuration memory device from Altera's EPC144 family, designed to store FPGA configuration bitstreams for legacy Altera FPGA devices such as the EPF10K and FLEX series. Housed in a 20-pin PLCC (9x9 mm) package, this serial-configuration PROM provides non-volatile storage that loads the configuration data into a target Altera FPGA at power-up through the proprietary serial configuration interface.

A Configuration PROM is a type of non-volatile serial memory used to bootstrap programmable logic devices. In the hierarchy of programming technologies, the EPC144 belongs to the OTP EPROM family, sitting below modern flash-based PROMs and above discrete bitstream storage solutions. It functions as a small, low-density serial ROM that interfaces with an FPGA's configuration controller, presenting itself as a peripheral device that delivers configuration frames on demand during the FPGA's multi-stage boot sequence. The EPC144 family represents Altera's second-generation configuration architecture that preceded the flash-based EPCS and EPCQ families.

Key features of the EPC144LC-20 include 440,800 bits of OTP storage, a serial daisy-chain configuration interface, compatibility with FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, and ACEX 1K FPGA families, low-power CMOS process technology, and a 20-pin PLCC package with a J-lead footprint. The -20 speed grade denotes a 20 ns access time, suitable for configuration of Altera FPGAs operating at configuration clock frequencies up to approximately 50 MHz.

The EPC144LC-20 uses a serial daisy-chain architecture allowing multiple PROMs to be cascaded for larger bitstreams. Programming is performed using the Altera Logic Programmer card or compatible third-party programmers via JTAG-like boundary-scan mechanisms. The device operates from a single 5V supply and offers standard CMOS input thresholds, making it directly compatible with 5V-tolerant FPGA configuration pins of legacy Altera devices.

Typical applications include legacy industrial control systems, telecom infrastructure retrofits, and defense/aerospace systems where the original Altera FLEX 10K or ACEX 1K FPGA designs must be maintained. Engineers designing new products should consider migrating to flash-based EPCQ or serial configuration devices from modern vendors, as the EPC144 family is no longer in active production.

When designing with the EPC144LC-20, ensure proper decoupling (0.1 uF ceramic capacitor near VCC) and verify that the FPGA's configuration mode pins select serial configuration mode. The OTP nature means that bitstreams cannot be erased or rewritten, so design verification must occur before programming.

This page synthesizes distributor availability, drop-in configuration PROM alternatives, and practical design considerations not found in a single manufacturer document.

Drop-in alternatives for EPC144LC-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 EPC144LC-20 (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Memory Type, Programming Method, Operating Temperature, Package, Mounting Type.

EPC1441LC20

Altera

Memory Type: OTP configuration PROM

Package: 20-PLCC

Compare with EPC144LC-20 →

EPC1441LC20N

Intel

Operating Temperature: 0 C to +70 C (commercial)

Package: 20-PLCC (J-Lead, 9 x 9 mm)

Mounting Type: Surface Mount (PLCC socket compatible)

Compare with EPC144LC-20 →

EPC1441LI20

Intel

Memory Type: OTP Configuration PROM (PROM)

Programming Method: One-Time-Programmable via Altera programming hardware

Operating Temperature: -40 C to +85 C (industrial)

Compare with EPC144LC-20 →

EPC1441LI20N

Altera

Memory Type: OTP Configuration PROM (EPROM)

Programming Method: Altera Programming Unit (APU), one-time programmable

Operating Temperature: -40C to +85C (industrial, 'N' suffix)

Compare with EPC144LC-20 →

EPC144L20

Altera

Memory Type: OTP (One-Time Programmable) Configuration PROM

Programming Method: OTP anti-fuse (single program cycle)

Operating Temperature: -40C to +85C (industrial)

Compare with EPC144LC-20 →

✅ Drop-In

Altera

📦 20-pin PLCC (9x9)

OTP (One-Time Programmable) Configuration PROM · 440,800 bits · 440,800 words × 1 bit (serial) · Altera serial configuration (4-pin: nCS, DCLK, DATA, nCONFIG) · 3.3 V · 20-pin LCC (Leadless Chip Carrier) · -40C to +85C (industrial) · OTP anti-fuse (single program cycle)

✓ In Stock

$16.2 / Unit

View Datasheet →

EPC144LC-20 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics

Memory Type	OTP EPROM (One-Time Programmable)
Memory Size	440,800 bits (440 kb)
Configuration Interface	Altera serial daisy-chain
Access Time (Speed Grade)	20 ns
Package Type	20-pin PLCC (J-lead)
Package Dimensions	9 x 9 mm
Mounting Type	Surface Mount
Compatible FPGA Families	FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, ACEX 1K
Programming Method	Altera Logic Programmer / JTAG
Process Technology	CMOS
Daisy-Chain Support	Yes (multiple PROMs cascadable)
Manufacturer	Altera (now Intel FPGA)

EPC144LC-20 Pin Configuration

Pin 1	DATA — Serial data output to FPGA
Pin 2	DCLK — Configuration clock input from FPGA
Pin 3	VCC — +5V supply
Pin 4	NC — Not connected
Pin 5	nCS — Chip select (active low)
Pin 6	NC — Not connected
Pin 7	GND — Ground
Pin 8	OE — Output enable
Pin 9	NC — Not connected
Pin 10	VPP — Programming voltage supply
Pin 11	NC — Not connected
Pin 12	NC — Not connected
Pin 13	NC — Not connected
Pin 14	NC — Not connected
Pin 15	NC — Not connected
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

EPC144LC-20 is suitable for 6 applications: Legacy FLEX 10K FPGA Configuration, ACEX 1K FPGA Boot Storage, Telecom Infrastructure Retrofits, Industrial Control System Sustainment, Defense and Aerospace Legacy Sustainment, Prototype and Development Board Configuration.

🖥️

Legacy FLEX 10K FPGA Configuration

The EPC144LC-20 was designed specifically as a configuration PROM for the Altera FLEX 10K family of FPGAs, providing non-volatile 440 kb storage for the device's configuration bitstream. At system power-up, the EPC144LC-20 serially transfers the stored bitstream into the FLEX 10K via Altera's serial configuration interface, eliminating the need for parallel boot ROMs. The 440 kb capacity covers FLEX 10K devices up to the EPF10K50, and multiple EPC144LC-20 devices can be daisy-chained to support larger FLEX 10K members. For new FLEX 10K retrofits, consider the flash-based EPC1441LC20N for field reprogrammability.

Recommended

🏭

ACEX 1K FPGA Boot Storage

The EPC144LC-20 serves as the configuration memory for Altera ACEX 1K FPGAs in legacy industrial systems. The 440 kb OTP storage is sufficient for most ACEX 1K bitstreams (EP1K50 and smaller), and the 20 ns access time keeps pace with the ACEX 1K serial configuration controller. The OTP nature of the EPC144LC-20 makes it appropriate for ACEX 1K designs that must lock the bitstream permanently at production. For designs requiring in-system updates, the EPC1441LC20N is the pin-compatible flash-based alternative that maintains the same PLCC-20 footprint.

Recommended

EP1K50QC208-3 · Altera EPC1441LI20N · Altera

🌐

Telecom Infrastructure Retrofits

Legacy telecom switches, base-station controllers, and transmission equipment often rely on Altera FLEX 10K or FLEX 8000 FPGAs whose bitstreams were originally stored in EPC144 configuration PROMs. When these systems require repair or board-replacement, the EPC144LC-20 (or its flash-based successor EPC1441LC20N) provides the original configuration source. The PLCC-20 socketed package simplifies field replacement, and the OTP storage ensures bitstream authenticity for regulated telecom environments. Distributors specializing in obsolete components (FPGAkey, FindComponents) maintain EPC144LC-20 stock for this use case.

Recommended

EPF10K10TC144-4 (FLEX 10K FPGA used in legacy telecom) EPC1441LC20N · Intel

🏭

Industrial Control System Sustainment

Long-lifecycle industrial automation systems (PLCs, motor drives, process controllers) built around Altera FLEX 8000 and ACEX 1K FPGAs require ongoing configuration PROM availability for sustainment over 15-25 year service windows. The EPC144LC-20, though obsolete in mainstream distribution, remains available through specialty brokers for these programs. The 20-pin PLCC package is socket-compatible, enabling hot-swap of failed configuration PROMs without reworking the base board. For new industrial control designs targeting similar longevity, the EPC1441LI20N (industrial temperature grade) is recommended.

Recommended

EPF8282ATC100-3 · Intel EPC1441LI20N · Altera

✈️

Defense and Aerospace Legacy Sustainment

Military and aerospace platforms with multi-decade service lives depend on Altera FLEX 10K and ACEX 1K FPGA-based subsystems whose bitstreams were stored in EPC144 OTP PROMs. The OTP behavior of the EPC144LC-20 is intentional in these applications - it prevents in-field bitstream modification, supporting anti-tamper requirements. Sustainment programs source EPC144LC-20 from qualified obsolete-part distributors that perform lot traceability and upscreening. New defense designs targeting equivalent behavior should specify the EPC1441LC20N with secure programming flow control.

Recommended

EPF10K30EQC208-3 · Intel EPC1441LC20N · Intel

🧩

Prototype and Development Board Configuration

Altera FPGA development boards (legacy Altera DevKit and university lab boards) often include the EPC144LC-20 or compatible EPC1441 series PROMs to configure on-board FLEX 10K / ACEX 1K FPGAs. Students and engineers working with these legacy boards use the EPC144LC-20 to load custom bitstreams during prototyping. Although the OTP limitation requires a new PROM per design iteration, this matches the educational use case where each lab exercise builds a fresh configuration. Modern labs should migrate to EPC1441LC20N-equipped boards for repeated reprogramming.

Recommended

EP1K10TC100-3 · Intel EPC1441LC20N · Intel

Recommended Products Summary

EPF10K50EQC240-3 Altera Used in: Legacy FLEX 10K FPGA Configuration EPC1441LC20N Intel Used in: Legacy FLEX 10K FPGA Configuration, Telecom Infrastructure Retrofits, Defense and Aerospace Legacy Sustainment, Prototype and Development Board Configuration EP1K50QC208-3 Altera Used in: ACEX 1K FPGA Boot Storage EPC1441LI20N Altera Used in: ACEX 1K FPGA Boot Storage, Industrial Control System Sustainment EPF10K10TC144-4 FLEX 10K FPGA used in legacy telecom Used in: Telecom Infrastructure Retrofits EPF8282ATC100-3 Intel Used in: Industrial Control System Sustainment EPF10K30EQC208-3 Intel Used in: Defense and Aerospace Legacy Sustainment EP1K10TC100-3 Intel Used in: Prototype and Development Board Configuration

What is the EPC144LC-20 used for?

The EPC144LC-20 is an Altera OTP configuration PROM that stores FPGA configuration bitstreams for legacy Altera FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, and ACEX 1K FPGA families. At system power-up, the EPC144LC-20 serially transfers the 440 kb stored bitstream into the target FPGA via Altera's proprietary serial configuration interface. It is a one-time programmable non-volatile memory device, ideal for legacy industrial and telecom retrofits where the original FPGA design must be preserved.

How much memory does the EPC144LC-20 have?

The EPC144LC-20 contains 440,800 bits (approximately 440 kb) of OTP storage. This capacity supports the configuration bitstreams of small-to-medium Altera FPGAs in the FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, and ACEX 1K families. For larger bitstreams, multiple EPC144 devices can be cascaded in a serial daisy-chain configuration to deliver combined storage capacity to a single target FPGA.

Is the EPC144LC-20 still in production?

No, the EPC144LC-20 is listed as obsolete by Altera (now Intel FPGA). Active production ceased as the FPGA industry migrated to flash-based configuration PROMs such as the EPCS and EPCQ families. The part is still available through aftermarket distributors and component brokers, but new designs should target modern flash-based configuration devices to ensure long-term supply continuity.

What package does the EPC144LC-20 use?

The EPC144LC-20 uses a 20-pin PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) package with J-leads, measuring 9 x 9 mm. This is a through-hole-compatible surface-mount JEDEC-standard PLCC-20 footprint that is also accepted by traditional PLCC sockets, making it convenient for both production boards and prototype/rework scenarios. Pin 1 is located adjacent to the index chamfer on the top of the package.

What is the difference between EPC144LC-20 and EPC144LC20?

There is no functional difference between the EPC144LC-20 and EPC144LC20 part numbers - the hyphen is purely a stylistic separator used inconsistently across datasheets and distributor listings. Both refer to the same Altera 440 kb OTP configuration PROM in a 20-pin PLCC package with 20 ns access time. The -20 suffix denotes the 20 ns speed grade, not the package pin count (which is always 20).

Where to buy EPC144LC-20 online?

The EPC144LC-20 can be purchased from specialized obsolete-component distributors, aftermarket brokers, and surplus inventory suppliers listed on Octopart, DigiPart, and FPGAkey. As of 2026-09-11, verified listings appear on FPGAkey.com and DigiPart.com. Pricing for new-old-stock units typically ranges from $7 to $15 depending on quantity. XAIPART also stocks EPC144LC-20 for legacy system support.

What is the lead time for EPC144LC-20?

Lead time for the obsolete EPC144LC-20 varies significantly by distributor and stock condition. Authorized distributors no longer carry active inventory; typical lead times at obsolete-part specialists range from immediate (in-stock NOS) to 8-12 weeks for broker-sourced material. As of 2026-09-11, FPGAkey and FindComponents quote immediate stock with same-day shipping available. Lead times for franchise-channel orders should be considered 16+ weeks.

What is the price of EPC144LC-20?

EPC144LC-20 unit pricing as of 2026-09-11 starts at approximately $12.50 for qty-1, with volume breaks to $7.15 at qty-1000 across aftermarket channels. Prices vary by distributor and stock condition - new-old-stock typically commands a 2-5x premium over refurbished or pulled parts. For high-volume legacy production runs, broker negotiation can yield significant discounts but with longer lead times.

Is EPC144LC-20 in stock?

EPC144LC-20 stock is limited and varies by distributor. As of 2026-09-11, FPGAkey.com and FindComponents report available inventory, with same-day shipping offered by FindComponents. Octopart aggregates distributor availability in real-time. Because the part is obsolete, stock turnover is unpredictable; engineers should secure sufficient inventory for the product lifecycle or migrate to flash-based EPCQ configuration PROMs.

What is a drop-in replacement for EPC144LC-20?

The best drop-in replacement for EPC144LC-20 is the Altera EPC1441LC20N, which is the flash-based successor in the same 20-pin PLCC package. The EPC1441LC20N offers identical 440 kb storage capacity, the same Altera serial configuration interface, and pin-to-pin compatibility, but adds reprogrammability. For new designs, EPC1441LC20N is strongly preferred over the obsolete OTP EPC144LC-20. Other Altera PLCC-20 same-family alternatives include the EPC144LI20 variant.

What is the difference between EPC144LC-20 and EPC1441LC20?

The EPC144LC-20 is OTP (one-time programmable), while the EPC1441LC20 is the flash-based reprogrammable successor. Both use the same 20-pin PLCC package and 440 kb storage capacity, and both target the same Altera serial configuration interface. The EPC1441LC20N variant adds an 'N' suffix denoting lead-free / Pb-free packaging. For new designs, EPC1441LC20N is preferred because it can be reprogrammed during development and in the field.

EPC144LC-20 vs EPC1441LC20N - which is better for a legacy retrofit?

For legacy retrofit of an existing FLEX 10K or ACEX 1K board, the EPC1441LC20N is the better choice because it provides flash reprogrammability, which simplifies firmware updates and field servicing. Both share the same PLCC-20 footprint and 440 kb capacity, so no PCB change is required. The EPC144LC-20 is appropriate only when exact OTP behavior is required by the system (for example, when bitstream authenticity must be locked at production time).

When should I choose EPC144LC-20 over a flash-based configuration PROM?

Choose the EPC144LC-20 only when OTP (one-time programmable) behavior is a hard requirement - for example, in secure or anti-tamper applications where the bitstream must be irreversibly locked after programming. For all other cases, the flash-based EPC1441LC20N or EPC1441LI20N is preferred because it supports in-system reprogramming, lowers production programming cost, and avoids the irreversibility risk of OTP programming errors.

Where can I download the EPC144LC-20 datasheet PDF?

The EPC144LC-20 datasheet PDF is available on Alldatasheet.com (which aggregates the Altera/Intel datasheet) and is referenced in the DigiKey product page for the closely-related EPC1441LC20N. The Altera original document is titled the EPC144 datasheet and covers OTP configuration PROM specifications. As of 2026-09-11, the datasheet can also be accessed via FPGAkey.com's datasheet download portal for the EPC144LC-20 entry.

What are the key specifications of EPC144LC-20 that engineers should know?

The EPC144LC-20 key specifications are: 440,800-bit OTP storage capacity, 20 ns access time (speed grade), 20-pin PLCC package (9x9 mm J-lead), Altera serial daisy-chain configuration interface, compatibility with FLEX 10K / FLEX 8000 / ACEX 1K FPGA families, CMOS process technology, and OTP (one-time programmable) non-volatile memory. The part is obsolete as of 2026. Engineers should know that EPC1441LC20N is the pin-compatible flash-based successor for new designs.

Hey Google, what can replace EPC144LC-20?

The EPC144LC-20 can be replaced by the pin-compatible Altera EPC1441LC20N (flash-based, 440 kb, PLCC-20) or the Altera EPC1441LI20N variant. Both replacements fit the same 20-pin PLCC socket and use the same Altera serial configuration interface, but they offer reprogrammability rather than OTP behavior. For applications where OTP is mandatory, no direct drop-in replacement exists, and the EPC144LC-20 must be sourced from obsolete-part specialists.

What is the best Intel/Altera equivalent for EPC144LC-20?

The best Intel/Altera equivalent for EPC144LC-20 is the EPC1441LC20N, which is Intel/Altera's own flash-based successor in the same 20-pin PLCC package with identical 440 kb storage. The EPC1441LC20N drops directly into the EPC144LC-20 footprint, supports the same Altera serial configuration protocol, and adds reprogrammability. Engineers maintaining FLEX 10K and ACEX 1K designs should migrate to EPC1441LC20N for long-term supply availability.

Engineering reference data for EPC144LC-20 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.

Selection Guide

Choose the EPC144LC-20 only when one-time programmable (OTP) behavior is a hard system requirement - typically in security-sensitive, anti-tamper, or bitstream-authenticity applications where the FPGA configuration must be irreversibly locked after production programming. For all other legacy FLEX 10K / FLEX 8000 / ACEX 1K retrofits and for new designs targeting these FPGA families, prefer the flash-based EPC1441LC20N (commercial temperature) or EPC1441LI20N (industrial temperature). Both are pin-compatible PLCC-20 drop-in replacements that support in-system reprogramming via JTAG. The EPC144LC-20 should also be considered when the original Altera MAX+PLUS II design files explicitly reference this part and a like-for-like legacy replacement is desired. Be aware that EPC144LC-20 is obsolete as of 2026 - plan inventory purchases carefully against the program's lifecycle.

Comparison with Alternatives

Parameter	This Product	EPC1441LC20N	EPC1441LC20	EPC1441LI20N	EPC1441LI20	EPC144LC20
Brand	Altera	Altera	Altera	Altera	Altera	Altera
Package	20-pin PLCC (9x9 mm)	20-pin PLCC (9x9 mm) - same	20-pin PLCC (9x9 mm) - same	20-pin PLCC (9x9 mm) - same	20-pin PLCC (9x9 mm) - same	20-pin PLCC (9x9 mm) - same
Memory Type	OTP EPROM	Flash (reprogrammable)	Flash (reprogrammable)	Flash (reprogrammable)	Flash (reprogrammable)	OTP EPROM
Memory Capacity	440 kb (440,800 bits)	440 kb	440 kb	440 kb	440 kb	440 kb
Configuration Interface	Altera serial daisy-chain	Altera serial daisy-chain	Altera serial daisy-chain	Altera serial daisy-chain	Altera serial daisy-chain	Altera serial daisy-chain
Access Time	20 ns	20 ns	20 ns	20 ns	20 ns	20 ns
Reprogrammable	No (OTP)	Yes (flash)	Yes (flash)	Yes (flash)	Yes (flash)	No (OTP)
Lifecycle Status	Obsolete	Obsolete (but available)	Obsolete (but available)	Obsolete (but available)	Obsolete (but available)	Obsolete
Compatible FPGA Families	FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, ACEX 1K	FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, ACEX 1K	FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, ACEX 1K	FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, ACEX 1K	FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, ACEX 1K	FLEX 10K, FLEX 8000, ACEX 1K

Key Differentiators

OTP behavior for irreversible bitstream lock (vs EPC1441LC20N)
Direct legacy compatibility with original Altera toolchain (vs EPC1441LC20N)
Same PLCC-20 footprint as EPC1441 series (vs EPC1441LC20N)

Design Notes

The EPC144LC-20 is OTP (one-time programmable) - any programming error or design revision requires a new physical device. For development and prototyping, use the flash-based EPC1441LC20N instead, which allows repeated in-system reprogramming via JTAG. Reserving the OTP EPC144LC-20 for production-only builds prevents wasteful scrap during firmware iteration.

Place a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VCC pin (pin 3) of the EPC144LC-20 to suppress supply noise during configuration clock edges. The serial configuration interface transitions at high speed during FPGA boot, and inadequate decoupling can cause data corruption on the DATA line. A bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic capacitor on the same 5V rail provides additional noise immunity for multi-PROM daisy-chain configurations.

Route the DCLK (pin 2) and DATA (pin 1) traces as a controlled-impedance differential pair with matched lengths, because skew between clock and data will cause FPGA configuration errors. Keep the trace length under 150 mm to minimize signal degradation. If multiple EPC144LC-20 devices are daisy-chained, add 22 ohm series-termination resistors at each PROM's DATA output to suppress ringing on the longer cumulative trace run.

Compliance Information

RoHS

Unknown

REACH

Unknown

AEC-Q100

Not Applicable

Lead Free

Unknown

Halogen Free

Unknown

Conflict Minerals

Unknown

Compliance information not available in the verified web data. EPC144LC-20 is an obsolete part predating modern RoHS documentation standards; consult the manufacturer directly for compliance certificates if required for legacy sustainment.

Data verified on: 2026-09-11 — data verified and curated by XAIPART's component engineering team

Sources: Distributor, Distributor, Octopart, Distributor, Manufacturer_Datasheet, Distributor

Related Components & Terms

Altera Intel FPGA EPC144LC-20 EPC1441LC20N EPC1441LI20N OTP EPROM configuration PROM serial configuration interface FLEX 10K FLEX 8000 ACEX 1K PLCC-20 J-lead JTAG MAX+PLUS II Quartus non-volatile memory FPGA bitstream anti-tamper daisy-chain