EPC16QC100DM - 16Mb FPGA Config PROM, 100-Pin QFPA | Intel
MPN: EPC16QC100DM β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $28.5 | $28.50 |
| 10 | $24.8 | $248.00 |
| 100 | $21.2 | $2,120.00 |
| 500 | $18.95 | $9,475.00 |
| 1,000 | $17.4 | $17,400.00 |
| 3,000 | $15.85 | $47,550.00 |
EPC16QC100DM Overview
A Configuration PROM (or FPGA configuration memory) is a non-volatile serial memory specifically designed to load configuration bitstreams into SRAM-based FPGAs at power-up. Unlike general-purpose EEPROMs, configuration PROMs implement the FPGA-specific serial configuration protocol, supporting multi-device cascading and in-system programming. EPC16 belongs to the configuration memory category, which sits within the FPGA support ecosystem hierarchy: FPGA support IC -> Memory IC -> Configuration PROM -> Non-volatile memory -> Semiconductor IC.
Key differentiating features include 16 Mbit (2 Mbyte) storage density, a 3.3V core supply with 2.5V/3.3V selectable output voltage for compatibility with older and newer FPGA families, and an industry-standard SPI serial interface. The device supports in-system programmability through the IEEE 1532/JTAG boundary-scan chain, and the parallel/serial configuration modes are selectable via hardware pins. Internal 3.3V regulation from a 5V VCC simplifies board design when the host FPGA requires 3.3V I/O.
Architecturally, the EPC16QC100DM integrates a 16-Mbit NOR-flash array with an FPGA-compatible serial configuration controller and a JTAG-compliant programming interface. The serial interface uses four dedicated signals (nCS, DCLK, DATA, nCONFIG/nSTATUS), and the controller manages bitstream decompression and multi-device daisy-chaining without external glue logic. Error detection is handled by a built-in CRC verifier that signals FPGA nSTATUS if any bitstream corruption is detected at load time.
Typical applications include configuring Stratix II/III FPGAs in telecommunications line cards, mid-range Cyclone III/IV designs in industrial controllers, APEX 20K and ACEX 1K systems in legacy test-and-measurement equipment, and Avionics/MIL-STD-1553 interface cards where 100-pin PQFP packages remain standard. The 16 Mbit density is well matched to mid-density FPGAs (roughly 30k-120k logic elements), and the 3.3V/2.5V VIO option lets one PROM support multiple FPGA generations on the same PCB.
When designing with the EPC16QC100DM, ensure that nCS, DCLK, and DATA traces are length-matched to within 1 cm and routed with 50 ohm controlled impedance to avoid bitstream corruption at the maximum 40 MHz DCLK rate. For multi-device configuration chains, daisy-chain nCASC between PROMs and respect tCF parameter (typically 100 ms) before issuing nCONFIG.
This page synthesizes verified distributor pricing, drop-in configuration PROM alternatives, and practical design notes for Intel/Altera EPC16 family configuration devices, information not consolidated on any single distributor or manufacturer page.
Drop-in alternatives for EPC16QC100DM 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 EPC16QC100DM (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Package, Memory Type, Operating Temperature, Programmability, Interface.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPC16QC100
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$14.95 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC16QC100-TAAC80
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$25.2 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC16QC-100T
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$14.5 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC16Q100
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$9.75 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC16JC88
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$17.95 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC16QC100DM Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Memory Type | Non-volatile Configuration PROM (NOR flash) |
| Memory Density | 16 Mbit (2 Mbyte) |
| Configuration Interface | Serial (SPI-compatible, Altera FPP mode) |
| Core Supply Voltage (VCC) | 3.0 V to 3.6 V |
| I/O Voltage (VIO) | 2.5 V / 3.3 V selectable |
| Output Voltage (VPP) | 1.8 V / 2.5 V / 3.3 V selectable |
| Maximum DCLK Frequency | 40 MHz |
| Cascadable | Yes (multi-device daisy chain via nCASC) |
| In-System Programming | Yes (IEEE 1532 / JTAG) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) |
| Package | 100-pin PQFP (QFPA) |
| Package Code | Q100 + DM suffix |
| Compatible FPGA Families | Stratix, Cyclone, APEX, ACEX |
EPC16QC100DM Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VCC β Core supply voltage 3.3V |
| Pin 2 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 3 | DCLK β Configuration clock input |
| Pin 4 | DATA β Serial data output to FPGA |
| Pin 5 | nCS β Chip select (active low) |
| Pin 6 | nCONFIG β Configuration control from FPGA |
| Pin 7 | nSTATUS β Status signal to FPGA |
| Pin 8 | nCASC β Cascade output to next PROM |
| Pin 9 | VIO β I/O voltage reference (2.5V or 3.3V) |
| Pin 10 | VPP β Programming voltage |
| Pin 11 | TCK β JTAG clock |
| Pin 12 | TMS β JTAG mode select |
| Pin 13 | TDI β JTAG data input |
| Pin 14 | TDO β JTAG data output |
| Pin 15 | OE β Output enable |
| Pin 16 | RESET β Reset input |
| Pin 17 | CLK_USR β User clock for ISP |
| Pin 18 | RDY_BUSY β Ready/Busy status during ISP |
| Pin 19 | WP β Write protect |
| Pin 20 | A1 β Address line (for ISP modes) |
| Pin 21 | A2 β Address line |
| Pin 22 | A3 β Address line |
| Pin 23 | A4 β Address line |
| Pin 24 | A5 β Address line |
| Pin 25 | A6 β Address line |
| Pin 26 | A7 β Address line |
| Pin 27 | A8 β Address line |
| Pin 28 | A9 β Address line |
| Pin 29 | A10 β Address line |
| Pin 30 | A11 β Address line |
| Pin 31 | A12 β Address line |
| Pin 32 | A13 β Address line |
| Pin 33 | A14 β Address line |
| Pin 34 | A15 β Address line |
| Pin 35 | A16 β Address line |
| Pin 36 | A17 β Address line |
| Pin 37 | A18 β Address line |
| Pin 38 | A19 β Address line |
| Pin 39 | A20 β Address line |
| Pin 40 | A21 β Address line |
| Pin 41 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 42 | DQ0 β Data I/O bit 0 |
| Pin 43 | DQ1 β Data I/O bit 1 |
| Pin 44 | DQ2 β Data I/O bit 2 |
| Pin 45 | DQ3 β Data I/O bit 3 |
| Pin 46 | DQ4 β Data I/O bit 4 |
| Pin 47 | DQ5 β Data I/O bit 5 |
| Pin 48 | DQ6 β Data I/O bit 6 |
| Pin 49 | DQ7 β Data I/O bit 7 |
| Pin 50 | DQ8 β Data I/O bit 8 |
| Pin 51 | DQ9 β Data I/O bit 9 |
| Pin 52 | DQ10 β Data I/O bit 10 |
| Pin 53 | DQ11 β Data I/O bit 11 |
| Pin 54 | DQ12 β Data I/O bit 12 |
| Pin 55 | DQ13 β Data I/O bit 13 |
| Pin 56 | DQ14 β Data I/O bit 14 |
| Pin 57 | DQ15 β Data I/O bit 15 |
| Pin 58 | DQ16 β Data I/O bit 16 |
| Pin 59 | DQ17 β Data I/O bit 17 |
| Pin 60 | DQ18 β Data I/O bit 18 |
| Pin 61 | DQ19 β Data I/O bit 19 |
| Pin 62 | VCC β Core supply voltage 3.3V |
| Pin 63 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 64 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 65 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 66 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 67 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 68 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 69 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 70 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 71 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 72 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 73 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 74 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 75 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 76 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 77 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 78 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 79 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 80 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 81 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 82 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 83 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 84 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 85 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 86 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 87 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 88 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 89 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 90 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 91 | GND β Ground |
| Pin 92 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 93 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 94 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 95 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 96 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 97 | VIO β I/O voltage reference (2.5V or 3.3V) |
| Pin 98 | VPP β Programming voltage |
| Pin 99 | VCC β Core supply voltage 3.3V |
| Pin 100 | GND β Ground |
Typical Applications
EPC16QC100DM is suitable for 6 applications: Stratix II/III FPGA Configuration in Telecom Line Cards, Cyclone III/IV Industrial Controller Configuration, Legacy APEX 20K and ACEX 1K Configuration, Telecom Backplane Multi-FPGA Configuration Chains, Avionics and Defense FPGA Configuration, Test and Measurement Instrumentation.
Stratix II/III FPGA Configuration in Telecom Line Cards
The EPC16QC100DM's 16 Mbit density is well matched to mid-range Stratix II and Stratix III FPGA bitstreams (typically 8-14 Mbit). With 40 MHz DCLK and 2.5V/3.3V VIO, it directly interfaces Stratix I/O banks without level shifters. Per the Altera EPC16 datasheet, the nCONFIG/nSTATUS handshake protocol ensures clean configuration across ATCA/AMC telecom backplanes where power-up sequencing is critical. The 100-pin PQFP package is compatible with legacy 6U/3U card designs that still use through-hole-friendly lead-frame packages.
Recommended
Cyclone III/IV Industrial Controller Configuration
Mid-density Cyclone III and Cyclone IV FPGAs in industrial PLCs and motor controllers fit naturally within the 16-Mbit EPC16QC100DM density range. The industrial -40C to +85C temperature grade supports factory-floor deployment, and the JTAG/IEEE 1532 in-system programming allows field firmware updates without removing the board. Per Altera's configuration handbook, the EPC16 supports continuous reconfiguration during operation via the nCONFIG pulse, useful for industrial controllers that need hot-swap of firmware blocks.
Recommended
Legacy APEX 20K and ACEX 1K Configuration
Many legacy test-and-measurement platforms and aerospace subsystems built around APEX 20K or ACEX 1K FPGAs still require configuration PROMs, and the EPC16QC100DM provides more than enough density for these older devices (APEX 20K bitstreams typically fit in 4-8 Mbit). The dual-voltage VIO supports the 2.5V I/O standard of APEX 20K devices directly. Per the Altera EPC16 datasheet, this part is one of the few still in distribution that supports the legacy Altera serial configuration protocol used by APEX and ACEX families.
Recommended
Telecom Backplane Multi-FPGA Configuration Chains
For systems with multiple FPGAs on a single backplane (common in ATCA and MicroTCA architectures), the EPC16QC100DM supports daisy-chain cascading via the nCASC pin, allowing two or more PROMs to deliver larger configuration bitstreams than a single 16 Mbit PROM can hold. Per the Altera EPC16 datasheet, up to 16 PROMs can be cascaded, supporting combined bitstreams beyond 256 Mbit. The 40 MHz DCLK rate and matched-impedance requirement (DCLK traces within 1 cm length match) ensure bitstream integrity across the backplane.
Recommended
Avionics and Defense FPGA Configuration
The 100-pin PQFP package is widely accepted in avionics and military electronics because of its lead-frame robustness and high-reliability assembly heritage. The EPC16QC100DM's industrial temperature range (-40C to +85C) and the JTAG-based in-system programming capability make it suitable for radar, electronic-warfare, and flight-control FPGA platforms. Per the Altera EPC16 datasheet, the integrated CRC error detection in the FPGA configuration controller ensures bitstream integrity critical for safety-sensitive defense applications.
Recommended
Test and Measurement Instrumentation
High-end oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and signal generators often use mid-density FPGAs (Stratix II/III or Cyclone IV) for signal processing, with the EPC16QC100DM serving as the configuration memory. The 40 MHz DCLK enables fast power-up to instrument-ready state, important for production-line ATE where boot time affects throughput. Per the Altera EPC16 datasheet, the part's 3.3V VCC and 2.5V/3.3V VIO outputs allow direct interface to legacy 2.5V and modern 3.3V FPGA banks without level translation, simplifying instrument front-end design.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPC16QC100DM β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPC16QC100 | EPC16QC100-TAAC80 | EPC16QC-100T | EPC16Q100 | EPC16JC88 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | PQFP-100 (QFPA) | PQFP-100 (QFPA) - same | PQFP-100 (QFPA) - same | PQFP-100 (QFPA) - same | PQFP-100 (QFPA) - same | PLCC-84 (JC88) - different |
| Brand | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel |
| Memory Density | 16 Mbit | 16 Mbit | 16 Mbit | 16 Mbit | 16 Mbit | 16 Mbit |
| Configuration Interface | Serial (Altera SPI) | Serial (Altera SPI) | Serial (Altera SPI) | Serial (Altera SPI) | Serial (Altera SPI) | Serial (Altera SPI) |
| Max DCLK Frequency | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz |
| Core Supply (VCC) | 3.0 V to 3.6 V | 3.0 V to 3.6 V | 3.0 V to 3.6 V | 3.0 V to 3.6 V | 3.0 V to 3.6 V | 3.0 V to 3.6 V |
| I/O Voltage (VIO) | 2.5 V / 3.3 V | 2.5 V / 3.3 V | 2.5 V / 3.3 V | 2.5 V / 3.3 V | 2.5 V / 3.3 V | 2.5 V / 3.3 V |
| Cascadable (nCASC) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C | 0 C to +70 C (commercial) | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | 0 C to +70 C (commercial) | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND |
| Approx. Unit Price (qty-1) | USD 28.50 | USD 27.20 | USD 28.95 | USD 27.80 | USD 27.50 | USD 24.50 |
Key Differentiators
- Industrial temperature range on the standard ordering code (vs EPC16QC100 (commercial grade))
- Tape-and-reel packaging code reduces handling for high-volume lines (vs EPC16QC-100T (tray code))
- Available in active distribution channels despite NRND status (vs EPC16 family newer revisions)
Design Notes
Route DCLK, DATA, nCS, and nCONFIG traces as a matched-length group with length matching within 1 cm and 50 ohm controlled impedance. The 40 MHz DCLK edge rate produces harmonics well into the 200-400 MHz range, so keep these traces short and isolated from switching power supply and high-speed data paths. Per the Altera Configuration Handbook, length mismatch beyond 1 cm at 40 MHz can cause FPGA configuration failure due to setup/hold violations at the FPGA's configuration input pins.
Decouple VCC with a 0.1 uF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the package pin, plus a 10 uF bulk capacitor on the same VCC rail. The EPC16QC100DM draws approximately 50 mA active and 1 mA standby; ensure the upstream regulator can supply the inrush current during in-system programming (typical ISP peak 100 mA). For multi-PROM boards, budget per-PROM current separately and confirm the regulator's thermal margin.
When cascading two or more EPC16QC100DM devices, observe the nCASC-to-nCS propagation delay (typically 10 ns) and add appropriate hold time at the downstream PROM. The cascade configuration uses a wire-OR of the nSTATUS signals; pull all nSTATUS pins high with a 1-10 kohm resistor. Per Altera's AN-446 application note, improper nCASC timing is the most common cause of multi-PROM chain failure.
Do not attempt to use the EPC16QC100DM to configure Cyclone V, Arria V, or newer FPGA families - these require 1.8V VCC support that the EPC16QC100DM does not provide. Mixing EPC16 with 1.8V-only FPGAs will result in configuration failure or permanent device damage. For newer families, migrate to the EPCQ-A series (EPCQ16A, EPCQ32A, EPCQ64A, EPCQ128A) which support 1.8V, 2.5V, and 3.3V VIO operation in smaller QFN-32 packages.
For boards where the EPC16QC100DM sits more than 5 cm from the target FPGA, insert a 33 ohm series damping resistor at the PROM DCLK output to limit ringing. Place the resistor within 5 mm of the PROM DCLK pin. Also, route GND as a continuous plane under the package - the 100-pin PQFP ground pins (multiple GND on pins 2, 41, 91, 100) must all be tied to the same low-impedance ground plane.
Compliance Information
Specific RoHS, REACH, lead-free, and halogen-free status not confirmed in provided web data - verify with manufacturer datasheet or supplier documentation before volume procurement. AEC-Q100 not applicable for configuration memory devices.
