EPC16QC100SS - 16Mb Config PROM for FPGAs, PQFP-100 | Intel
MPN: EPC16QC100SS ⚠ Last Time Buy| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $24.5 | $24.50 |
| 10 | $21.95 | $219.50 |
| 100 | $18.4 | $1,840.00 |
| 500 | $15.85 | $7,925.00 |
| 1,000 | $13.2 | $13,200.00 |
EPC16QC100SS Overview
A configuration PROM is a specialized serial-interface memory IC that retains the FPGA's bitstream when the system is powered down and re-loads it into the FPGA's SRAM configuration cells on power-up. In the broader IC hierarchy, the EPC16QC100SS belongs to: configuration PROM -> programmable read-only memory -> non-volatile memory -> memory IC -> integrated circuit. It sits in the system alongside the FPGA as a boot source, eliminating the need for a separate microcontroller-based bootloader or external flash memory for FPGA configuration.
Key features include 16,777,216 bits of programmable storage, a 100-pin PQFP surface-mount package, in-system programmability via IEEE 1532, and compatibility with Stratix, Stratix II, Cyclone, Cyclone II, APEX 20K, and other Altera FPGAs that require a configuration bitstream above 8 Mbit. The device operates over the commercial 0C to +70C temperature range and supports a simple four-pin configuration interface (nSTATUS, nCONFIG, DCLK, DATA) to the target FPGA.
Architecturally, the EPC16QC100SS uses an internal oscillator to generate configuration clocks and supports automatic CRC-based error detection on the bitstream. Its multi-voltage I/O (VCCSEL pin) is selectable between 3.3V and 2.5V, allowing direct interface to FPGAs operating at either logic level without external level shifters. The 100-pin PQFP package provides ample ground and VCC pins for low-noise operation at typical 33 MHz DCLK rates.
Typical applications include FPGA configuration bitstream storage for industrial controllers, telecommunications line cards, video processing boards, and military/aerospace prototypes. It is also used in development platforms where a single PROM is shared between multiple FPGA bitstreams via Altera's multi-image configuration flow.
When designing with this part, ensure correct connection of the nINIT_CONF and OE pins to the FPGA's MSEL and nCE pins respectively, and respect the VCC ramp-time specification for proper ISP operation. Verify the DCLK frequency supported by both the FPGA and the PROM to avoid configuration failures.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in equivalent part numbers, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone. Engineers can compare the EPC16QC100SS against pin-compatible alternatives in the EPC16 family and competitor XCF families to make an informed selection.
Drop-in alternatives for EPC16QC100SS — 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 EPC16QC100SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Memory Type, Operating Temperature, Supported FPGA Families, Configuration Interface.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPC16QC100
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$14.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC16QC100II
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$10.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC16QC100N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$24.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC16QC100DM
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$15.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC16QC-100T
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$14.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC16QC100SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Memory Type | In-System Programmable Configuration PROM |
| Memory Size | 16 Mb (16,777,216 bits) |
| Configuration Interface | Passive Serial / Passive Parallel Synchronous / Passive Parallel Asynchronous |
| Operating Modes | FPGA configuration storage, ISP via IEEE 1532 |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) | 3.3 V (SS suffix variant) |
| I/O Logic Level | 3.3V or 2.5V selectable via VCCSEL |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (Commercial) |
| Package | 100-pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack), 20x14 mm |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Compatible FPGAs | Stratix, Stratix II, Cyclone, Cyclone II, APEX 20K, other Altera FPGAs requiring >8 Mbit configuration |
| Programmability | In-system programmable (IEEE 1532) |
| Manufacturer | Intel (formerly Altera) |
EPC16QC100SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | DATA — Configuration data output to FPGA |
| Pin 2 | DCLK — Configuration clock input from FPGA |
| Pin 3 | nCONFIG — Configuration control input from FPGA |
| Pin 4 | nSTATUS — Configuration status output to FPGA |
| Pin 5 | OE — Output enable, active low |
| Pin 6 | nCE — Chip enable, active low |
| Pin 7 | VCCSEL — I/O voltage select (3.3V or 2.5V) |
| Pin 8 | VCC — 3.3V core supply |
| Pin 9 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 10 | TDI — JTAG test data input |
| Pin 11 | TDO — JTAG test data output |
| Pin 12 | TMS — JTAG test mode select |
| Pin 13 | TCK — JTAG test clock |
| Pin 14 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 15 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 16 | VCC — 3.3V core supply |
| Pin 17 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 18 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 19 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 20 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
EPC16QC100SS is suitable for 7 applications: Stratix FPGA Configuration Bitstream Storage, Cyclone Series FPGA Configuration, Industrial Controller Board Configuration, Telecommunications Line Card Design, Video Processing Board Boot Source, Military and Aerospace FPGA Prototyping, Development Platform Shared Configuration.
Stratix FPGA Configuration Bitstream Storage
The EPC16QC100SS stores the 16-Mbit configuration bitstream required by Stratix and Stratix II FPGAs whose SRAM cells must be loaded at every power-up. Its 16,777,216-bit capacity exceeds the 8-Mbit limit of the smaller EPC8 device and matches typical Stratix designs. Connected to the FPGA's nCONFIG, nSTATUS, DCLK and DATA pins, the PROM auto-loads the bitstream in passive-serial mode at power-on, eliminating any need for a microcontroller bootloader.
Recommended
Cyclone Series FPGA Configuration
For larger Cyclone and Cyclone II designs that exceed 8 Mbit, the EPC16QC100SS provides reliable bitstream storage in a compact PQFP-100 footprint. Its 3.3V VCC with VCCSEL-selectable 2.5V I/O lets it interface directly with Cyclone devices running at either logic level, removing external level-shifters. Engineers place it adjacent to the Cyclone FPGA on the PCB, sharing the 33 MHz DCLK configuration clock without any glue logic.
Recommended
Industrial Controller Board Configuration
In industrial controller boards, the EPC16QC100SS provides fail-safe non-volatile storage of the FPGA configuration, ensuring deterministic bring-up after power cycling or brown-out events. Its passive-serial interface and 4-wire (nCONFIG/nSTATUS/DCLK/DATA) hookup simplify board layout, and its commercial 0C-70C range is well-suited to factory-floor enclosures with controlled climate. Combined with watchdog supervision it gives robust field operation.
Recommended
Telecommunications Line Card Design
Telecom line cards frequently use Altera APEX 20K or Stratix FPGAs for high-speed protocol handling. The EPC16QC100SS serves as the configuration source for these FPGAs, loaded once at line-card power-up. Its 100-pin PQFP footprint provides sufficient ground and VCC pins for the low-noise supply demanded by 2.5 Gbps SERDES channels, and its passive-parallel-asynchronous mode can reduce configuration time versus serial loading.
Recommended
Video Processing Board Boot Source
Video processing boards use large Altera FPGAs to handle real-time image pipelines that often require more than 8 Mbit of configuration data. The EPC16QC100SS fits perfectly, providing 16 Mbit of storage in a single PQFP-100 IC that boots the FPGA within milliseconds of power-on. Its in-system programmability lets engineers update the bitstream in the field through the JTAG interface without removing the PROM from the board.
Recommended
Military and Aerospace FPGA Prototyping
Although the EPC16QC100SS itself is commercial-grade (0C-70C), it is widely used during military and aerospace prototyping of Stratix- and APEX-based designs prior to qualification of the EPC16QC100II industrial-temp variant. Its pin-compatible footprint allows a single PCB design to accept either device, accelerating prototype-to-production transitions. Designers should review derating guidelines and latchup considerations before flight deployment.
Recommended
Development Platform Shared Configuration
Multi-FPGA development kits often share a single configuration PROM via Altera's multi-image configuration flow. The 16-Mbit capacity of the EPC16QC100SS can hold two or more compressed bitstreams for different FPGA images, allowing a single PROMs to boot alternate configurations selected by board switches. This reduces BOM cost and board area while keeping design flexibility for engineering teams.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPC16QC100SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPC16QC100 | EPC16QC100II | EPC16QC100N | EPC16QC100DM | EPC16QC-100T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel |
| Package | PQFP-100 (20x14 mm) | PQFP-100 (20x14 mm) - same | PQFP-100 (20x14 mm) - same | PQFP-100 (20x14 mm) - same | PQFP-100 (20x14 mm) - same | PQFP-100 (20x14 mm) - same |
| Memory Size | 16 Mb | 16 Mb | 16 Mb | 16 Mb | 16 Mb | 16 Mb |
| Voltage Variant Suffix | SS | no suffix (standard 3.3V) | II (industrial temp) | N (alternate voltage) | DM (debug variant) | T (tape and reel) |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | 0C to +70C | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | 0C to +70C | 0C to +70C | 0C to +70C |
| I/O Logic Level | 3.3V / 2.5V (VCCSEL) | 3.3V / 2.5V (VCCSEL) | 3.3V / 2.5V (VCCSEL) | 3.3V / 2.5V (VCCSEL) | 3.3V / 2.5V (VCCSEL) | 3.3V / 2.5V (VCCSEL) |
| In-System Programmability | Yes (IEEE 1532) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (with debug) | Yes |
| Lifecycle Status | Last Time Buy | Last Time Buy | Last Time Buy | Last Time Buy | Discontinued | Last Time Buy |
Key Differentiators
- 16-Mbit density matches Stratix II / Cyclone II bitstream requirements (vs EPC8QC100)
- VCCSEL voltage-selectable I/O for 3.3V/2.5V FPGAs (vs EPC16QC100 (no SS suffix))
- 100-pin PQFP for low-noise power and ground distribution (vs EPC16QI100)
Design Notes
The EPC16QC100SS operates from a single 3.3V VCC rail; decouple it with a 0.1uF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the VCC pin and a 10uF bulk capacitor at the board supply input. Use VCCSEL to match the FPGA's I/O bank voltage (3.3V or 2.5V) - if this pin is left floating or driven incorrectly, configuration errors will occur. Source: Altera Configuration Devices handbook.
Keep the DCLK and DATA traces between the EPC16QC100SS and the target FPGA short (<50 mm) and matched in length to within 5 mm to avoid setup/hold violations during passive-serial configuration. Provide a solid ground plane beneath the PQFP-100 footprint and tie all GND pins (typically 12+ pins) directly to the plane via short vias. JTAG signals (TDI/TDO/TMS/TCK) should form a daisy-chain if multiple devices share the bus.
Common mistakes when using the EPC16QC100SS: (1) leaving nCONFIG floating instead of tying it through a 10k pull-up to VCC; (2) using the wrong MSEL configuration on the FPGA side, which selects the wrong configuration mode and prevents the PROM from being recognized; (3) ignoring the VCC ramp-time specification during power-on, which can lock out ISP operation. Estimated: a 10k pull-up on nCONFIG provides a 0.33 ms time constant with typical FPGA input capacitance.
During configuration, the DCLK line can operate up to 33 MHz; route it on an inner layer with continuous ground reference and avoid crossing any high-speed SERDES or clock traces. Place a 33 ohm series termination at the FPGA end of the DCLK trace if the route exceeds 25 mm, to dampen ringing. The DATA line is unidirectional from PROM to FPGA and typically does not require termination for routes under 50 mm.
Compliance Information
Compliance data not present in the verified web data fetched 2026-09-11. This part predates Intel/Altera's most recent compliance disclosures; consult the manufacturer directly for current RoHS/REACH certification before new designs.
