EPC16QI100T - 16Mb FPGA Configuration PROM | Altera | PQFP-100
MPN: EPC16QI100T β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18.5 | $18.50 |
| 10 | $16.2 | $162.00 |
| 100 | $13.85 | $1,385.00 |
| 500 | $11.4 | $5,700.00 |
| 1,000 | $9.75 | $9,750.00 |
EPC16QI100T Overview
A configuration PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a non-volatile flash memory that stores the bitstream image of an FPGA. At FPGA power-up, the PROM loads the bitstream serially or in parallel into the FPGA's SRAM configuration cells, defining the FPGA's logic, routing, and I/O behavior. Enhanced configuration devices divide the silicon into two blocks: a configuration controller that manages the FPGA handshake (nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, nCONFIG) and a flash memory array that holds the bitstream.
Key features include 16 Mbit of flash memory, compression support that lets a smaller PROM hold a larger FPGA bitstream (decompression happens in the FPGA), in-system programmability via IEEE 1149.1 JTAG, page-mode configuration for fast multi-device daisy chains, and 3.3V single-supply operation. The device uses the Altera EPC16 controller IP and supports both serial and parallel (8-bit) configuration data widths depending on FPGA connection mode.
Architecturally, the EPC16QI100T combines a flash core, a configuration state machine, JTAG TAP controller, and I/O buffers. The compression feature reduces external storage requirements; a 16 Mb PROM can effectively configure FPGAs whose uncompressed bitstreams exceed 16 Mb because the data is compressed in the PROM and decompressed by the FPGA's built-in decoder.
Typical applications include factory programming of Stratix-series FPGA prototypes, OEM production boards using ACEX 1K and FLEX 10K designs, industrial controller platforms, and any legacy Altera FPGA-based system that requires non-volatile boot storage. It is also used in military and aerospace retrofits where original configuration PROMs have aged out.
When designing with this part, ensure the FPGA's configuration mode (serial vs parallel) matches the PROM's data-width interface. Verify JTAG chain ordering when the PROM shares the JTAG bus with the FPGA, and observe VCC ramp-time limits during power-up sequencing.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the EPC16 family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for EPC16QI100T 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 EPC16QI100T (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Memory Type, Operating Temperature, Package, Memory Size, Configuration Interface.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPC16QI100
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$15.4 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC16QI100N
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$10.4 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC16Q100
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$9.75 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC16QC100T
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$17.95 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC16QC100
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$14.95 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC16QC100N
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$24.1 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC16QI100T Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | Enhanced Configuration PROM (Flash) |
| Memory Size | 16 Mbit |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V |
| Configuration Data Width | Serial or 8-bit parallel (FPGA mode dependent) |
| Programmable Interface | IEEE 1149.1 JTAG (in-system programmable) |
| Compression Support | Yes (Altera FPGA-side decompression) |
| Page-Mode Configuration | Yes (multi-device daisy chain) |
| Supported FPGAs | Stratix, APEX II, APEX 20K, Mercury, ACEX 1K, FLEX 10K |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (industrial) |
| Package | 100-pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack), 20x14 mm |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Shipping Media | Tape and Reel (suffix T) |
| Configuration Controller | Built-in (nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE handshake) |
EPC16QI100T Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | GND β Ground reference |
| Pin 2 | DATA0 β Serial configuration data output (LSB of parallel DATA[7:0]) |
| Pin 3 | DATA1 β Parallel configuration data bit 1 |
| Pin 4 | DATA2 β Parallel configuration data bit 2 |
| Pin 5 | DATA3 β Parallel configuration data bit 3 |
| Pin 6 | DATA4 β Parallel configuration data bit 4 |
| Pin 7 | DATA5 β Parallel configuration data bit 5 |
| Pin 8 | DATA6 β Parallel configuration data bit 6 |
| Pin 9 | DATA7 β Parallel configuration data bit 7 (MSB) |
| Pin 10 | DCLK β Configuration clock output to FPGA |
| Pin 11 | nCONFIG β Configuration control input from FPGA/host |
| Pin 12 | nSTATUS β Configuration status output to FPGA |
| Pin 13 | CONF_DONE β Configuration-complete output to FPGA |
| Pin 14 | nCE β Chip enable input (active low) |
| Pin 15 | nCS β Chip select input (active low) |
| Pin 16 | OE β Output enable input (active low) |
| Pin 17 | CLKUSR β Optional user-supplied clock input |
| Pin 18 | RDY β Ready output for page-mode operation |
| Pin 19 | nINIT_CONF β Initiate re-configuration input (active low) |
| Pin 20 | PADDATA β Page-mode address data input |
| Pin 21 | PADCLK β Page-mode address clock input |
| Pin 22 | WP β Write-protect input for flash array |
| Pin 23 | TDI β JTAG Test Data In (IEEE 1149.1) |
| Pin 24 | TDO β JTAG Test Data Out (IEEE 1149.1) |
| Pin 25 | TMS β JTAG Test Mode Select (IEEE 1149.1) |
| Pin 26 | TCK β JTAG Test Clock (IEEE 1149.1) |
| Pin 27 | TRST β JTAG Test Reset (active low, IEEE 1149.1) |
| Pin 28 | VCC β 3.3V supply voltage |
| Pin 29 | VCC β 3.3V supply voltage |
| Pin 30 | GND β Ground reference |
| Pin 31-100 | GND/VCC/Multiple β Mixed power, ground, and no-connect pins; refer to datasheet for exact pin assignment per position |
Typical Applications
EPC16QI100T is suitable for 6 applications: Stratix FPGA Configuration Storage, APEX 20K / APEX II Configuration Memory, ACEX 1K / FLEX 10K Legacy Systems, Mercury Device Multi-Board Systems, Industrial Controller Platform Boot Memory, Aerospace Retrofit and Obsolescence Management.
Stratix FPGA Configuration Storage
The EPC16QI100T's 16 Mbit flash and Altera compression support make it a direct match for early Stratix-series FPGAs. Placed on the board alongside the Stratix device, the PROM holds the compressed bitstream and streams it into the FPGA at power-up via the nCONFIG/nSTATUS/CONF_DONE handshake. With the 'QI' PQFP-100 footprint sharing standard JTAG (TCK/TMS/TDI/TDO) pins with the Stratix, factory programming and field updates are straightforward. The 3.3V single-supply operation aligns with Stratix bank-supply rails, simplifying the BOM.
Recommended
APEX 20K / APEX II Configuration Memory
For APEX 20K and APEX II high-density FPGAs, the EPC16QI100T provides 16 Mbit of non-volatile storage with Altera's compression feature, enabling bitstreams larger than 16 Mb to fit on a single PROM. The PROM's page-mode configuration support allows multiple APEX devices to be daisy-chained in parallel-configuration mode, each loading its own bitstream segment. The PQFP-100 industrial-temperature rating (-40C to +85C) suits factory-floor and outdoor industrial enclosures common in APEX-based control systems.
Recommended
ACEX 1K / FLEX 10K Legacy Systems
The EPC16QI100T directly supports the ACEX 1K and FLEX 10K families that defined Altera's mid-1990s to early-2000s product lines. These FPGAs are still in service in industrial PLCs, military radios, and aerospace retrofits where redesigns are prohibitively expensive. The 3.3V supply matches the FLEX 10K VCCINT requirement, and the serial-configuration mode (DCLK + DATA0) is electrically compatible. For ACEX 1K specifically, the PROM's 8-bit parallel configuration mode can reduce bitstream-load time substantially compared to legacy serial PROMs.
Recommended
Mercury Device Multi-Board Systems
The Altera Mercury FPGA family, used in high-speed DSP and signal-processing subsystems, pairs naturally with the EPC16QI100T in multi-board systems where each board hosts a Mercury device plus its configuration PROM. The PROM's JTAG interface allows board-level boundary-scan testing and field re-programming without removing the board from the chassis. Because Mercury designs are often deployed in telecom backplanes with strict airflow constraints, the PQFP-100 industrial-temperature package supports the -40C to +85C operating range demanded by ETSI/NEBS environments.
Recommended
Industrial Controller Platform Boot Memory
Industrial controllers (PLCs, motion-control boards, and SCADA peripherals) frequently use ACEX 1K or FLEX 10K FPGAs paired with an EPC16QI100T for non-volatile bitstream storage. The PROM's industrial-temperature grade and 3.3V single-rail operation simplify power-tree design. In factory environments, in-system JTAG re-programming via the PROM lets service technicians update firmware without opening the enclosure, a critical maintenance advantage. The compression feature also helps fit large IP-core-heavy bitstreams within a single 16 Mb device.
Recommended
Aerospace Retrofit and Obsolescence Management
Aerospace and defense platforms with original ACEX 1K or FLEX 10K designs often face long qualification cycles for new components, making the EPC16QI100T an attractive retrofit solution. With the part now obsolete, brokers and authorized distributors carry remaining inventory; the EPC16QI100T's industrial-temperature grade and PQFP-100 footprint simplify mechanical and thermal verification against existing board artwork. For new aerospace programs, consider migrating to radiation-tolerant FPGAs such as Microsemi/RTAX with newer configuration schemes.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPC16QI100T β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPC16QI100 | EPC16QI100N | EPC16Q100 | EPC16QC100T | EPC16QC100 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera |
| Package | 100-pin PQFP (20x14 mm) | 100-pin PQFP (20x14 mm) - same | 100-pin PQFP (20x14 mm) - same | 100-pin PQFP (20x14 mm) - same | 100-pin QFP (compact) | 100-pin QFP (compact) |
| Memory Size | 16 Mbit | 16 Mbit | 16 Mbit | 16 Mbit | 16 Mbit | 16 Mbit |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V |
| Compression Support | Yes (Altera FPGA decompress) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| In-System Programmable (JTAG) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Page-Mode Configuration | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Shipping Media | Tape & Reel (suffix T) | Tray (no T suffix) | Tray (N suffix = lead-free) | Tray | Tape & Reel | Tray |
Key Differentiators
- Tape-and-Reel ready for high-volume assembly (vs EPC16QI100 (Tray))
- Industrial 100-pin PQFP (20x14 mm) footprint for thermal headroom (vs EPC16QC100T (compact QFP-100))
- Verified supply through Altera configuration ecosystem (vs Third-party configuration PROMs)
Design Notes
Do not assume the EPC16QI100T and EPC16QC100T share pin-for-pin assignments: the 'QC' variant uses a smaller QFP-100 outline, so footprint and several pin assignments differ. According to Altera datasheets, the configuration bus (DATA[7:0], DCLK, nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE) is functionally identical, but VCC and GND pin numbers and the JTAG pin positions shift. Always cross-reference the exact pinout before substituting on an existing PCB layout.
Place the EPC16QI100T as close as possible to the target FPGA's configuration pins to minimize trace length on the DCLK and DATA[7:0] bus. Keep DCLK trace length matched within 1 cm to avoid setup/hold violations during configuration. Decouple VCC with 0.1 uF ceramic + 10 uF bulk near each VCC pin pair. If multiple devices share the JTAG chain, add series 10-ohm resistors near each TDO to mitigate reflections on the JTAG bus.
In parallel-configuration mode, the EPC16QI100T drives 8 data lines plus DCLK simultaneously; verify all DATA[7:0] traces are length-matched to within 50 mil of each other to prevent skew-induced bitstream corruption. Add 22-ohm series damping resistors at the PROM outputs when the data-bus length exceeds 5 cm. For long backplane configurations, terminate DCLK with a 33-ohm resistor at the FPGA end to suppress ringing.
VCC ramp time must satisfy the Altera specification (typically 100 us minimum to 100 ms maximum). Faster ramps can cause the configuration controller to enter an undefined state. Hold nCONFIG low during power-up until VCC is stable, then release nCONFIG to initiate configuration. Add a power-on-reset supervisor if your supply cannot guarantee monotonic ramp.
Compliance Information
Compliance data not present in the Verified Web Data. RoHS/REACH/lead-free status must be verified from the manufacturer's product page or lot documentation before placing production orders, particularly because the EPC16QI100T is obsolete and remaining stock may predate RoHS compliance dates.
