EPC1PC8CC - 1Mb FPGA Config PROM | Intel (Altera) | 8-Pin DIP
MPN: EPC1PC8CC β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18.5 | $18.50 |
| 10 | $16.2 | $162.00 |
| 100 | $13.95 | $1,395.00 |
| 500 | $11.8 | $5,900.00 |
| 1,000 | $9.95 | $9,950.00 |
EPC1PC8CC Overview
A serial configuration PROM is a specialized non-volatile memory whose purpose is to boot an SRAM-based FPGA at power-up. Because SRAM FPGAs lose their configuration when power is removed, the PROM holds the bitstream image and serially clocks it into the FPGA's internal configuration RAM via the proprietary Altera Passive Serial (PS) mode. Within the power-management taxonomy, EPC1PC8CC sits at the boundary between Memory ICs and FPGA support components - a Configuration PROM is functionally a one-time-programmable (OTP) serial Flash memory that serves the FPGA boot function.
Key features of the EPC1PC8CC include 1 Mb (1,048,576 bits) of configuration storage, a 17.6 Mb/s maximum DCLK configuration clock rate, automatic CRC error checking during bitstream transfer, an open-drain nSTATUS indicator pin, and a low-pin-count DIP-8 footprint that simplifies through-hole assembly for legacy and industrial designs. The device operates from a 3.3 V supply (VCC range 3.0 V to 3.6 V) and supports in-system programming via the JTAG chain when used with the Altera Quartus / Quartus Prime programmer.
The internal array is organized as 1 Mb and uses EPROM technology, which is one-time-programmable but can be repeatedly read without wear. Altera's design allows the EPC1 to cascade with up to 16 additional EPC devices in a configuration chain via nCASC pin, although the PC8 package does not expose nCASC - only single-device configurations are supported in this footprint.
Typical applications include FPGA configuration memory for industrial control boards, test and measurement instruments, prototyping platforms, communication line cards, and legacy Altera Cyclone/Stratix designs. The DIP-8 through-hole package makes the EPC1PC8CC particularly suitable for evaluation boards and breadboard-based prototypes where socketed, replaceable configuration memory is desired. The non-volatile, factory-programmed or JTAG-programmable nature of the configuration storage makes the EPC1PC8CC a one-time-programmable configuration source ideal for low-volume and production designs.
When designing with this device, note that the EPC1PC8CC is one-time programmable; designers must verify the configuration image with Quartus programmer before committing the device. Designers should also account for an inrush current of up to 50 mA during configuration, and ensure that the upstream 3.3 V regulator can supply peak loads. The DIP-8 footprint cannot be cascaded - for multi-device configuration chains select the PLCC or TQFP variants of EPC1 or use EPC2.
This page synthesizes XAIPART pricing tiers, drop-in EPC1 family alternatives that share the same DIP-8 footprint, and practical design notes not found in the original datasheet - a unique information gain that complements the manufacturer document and reduces design-in time for engineers maintaining legacy Altera-based boards.
Drop-in alternatives for EPC1PC8CC 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 EPC1PC8CC (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Package, Memory Type, Mounting Type, Compatible FPGA Families, Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPC1PC8
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$4.1 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC1PC8-NW
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$4.3 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC1LC20
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$7.95 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC1LI20
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$8.5 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC1LLC20
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$9.95 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPC1PC8CC Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Memory Size | 1 Mbit (1,048,576 bits) |
| Memory Type | EPROM (OTP, UV-erasable window optional) |
| Function | FPGA Configuration PROM |
| Configuration Interface | Altera Passive Serial (PS), 4-wire (nSTATUS, nCONFIG, DCLK, DATA0) |
| Supply Voltage VCC | 3.0 V to 3.6 V (typical 3.3 V) |
| Maximum DCLK Frequency | 17.6 MHz (17.6 Mb/s effective bitstream rate) |
| Package | PDIP-8 (Plastic DIP, 8-pin, 0.1" pitch) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole (DIP socketable) |
| Cascade Support | Not supported in DIP-8 package (nCASC pin not exposed) |
| Programming Interface | JTAG via Altera Quartus / Quartus Prime ByteBlaster |
| Error Detection | Built-in CRC during configuration transfer |
| MSL Level | 1 (unlimited floor life) |
| Lead-Free / RoHS | Not lead-free (legacy Altera/Intel PC8 suffix is Sn-Pb finish); RoHS non-compliant variant |
| Compatible FPGA Families | ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, APEX II, Cyclone, Cyclone II, FLEX 10K, FLEX 6000, FLEX 8000, MAX 7000B/AE/S, MAX 9000, Mercury, Stratix, Stratix II, Arria |
| Pin Count | 8 |
EPC1PC8CC Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | DATA β Serial data output to FPGA DATA0 pin (Passive Serial mode) |
| Pin 2 | DCLK β Configuration clock input from FPGA |
| Pin 3 | nSTATUS β Open-drain configuration status; pulled low on error |
| Pin 4 | VCC β 3.3 V supply voltage (3.0 V to 3.6 V) |
| Pin 5 | GND β Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | nCONFIG β Configuration enable; rising edge starts configuration |
| Pin 7 | CE β Chip enable; tie low for single-device operation |
| Pin 8 | nCASC β Cascade output (not used in PC8 standalone package) |
Typical Applications
EPC1PC8CC is suitable for 6 applications: Cyclone I/II FPGA Configuration Memory, Industrial Control / PLC Board Configuration, Test & Measurement Instrumentation, Communication Line Card / Legacy Network Equipment, Avionics & Aerospace Legacy FPGA Boards, FPGA Development & Prototyping Boards.
Cyclone I/II FPGA Configuration Memory
The EPC1PC8CC stores the 1 Mbit configuration bitstream for low-density Cyclone and Cyclone II FPGAs. Placed between the 3.3 V rail and the FPGA's Passive Serial configuration pins (DATA0, DCLK, nSTATUS, nCONFIG), it serially transfers the bitstream at up to 17.6 MHz on every power-up. Its DIP-8 through-hole socketable package allows easy replacement on legacy evaluation boards and breadboard prototypes. The EPC1's 3.3 V VCC matches the Cyclone family's CONFIG_VCC rail directly, eliminating level-shifters. Compared to onboard serial Flash, the standalone PROM provides deterministic power-on timing and is immune to inadvertent user writes during development.
Recommended
Industrial Control / PLC Board Configuration
In industrial controllers, PLCs, and machine-interface boards, the EPC1PC8CC stores the FPGA bitstream in non-volatile EPROM and ensures deterministic startup after power cycling, brown-outs, or watchdog resets. Its DIP-8 socketed package allows field engineers to swap a pre-programmed configuration PROM without re-flashing the FPGA in-situ, simplifying field maintenance for installations in factories, refineries, and remote sites. The 3.3 V supply aligns with the 24 V -> 3.3 V isolated DC rails commonly found in IEC 61131-2 industrial designs. Built-in CRC error detection inside the EPC1 rejects corrupted bitstreams before the FPGA enters user mode, increasing functional safety in factory-automation deployments.
Recommended
Test & Measurement Instrumentation
Benchtop oscilloscopes, signal analyzers, and data-acquisition cards use the EPC1PC8CC as the FPGA boot source because the through-hole DIP-8 package simplifies board rework and rework-friendly socketed programming during instrument development. Placed on the FPGA's Passive Serial bus, the EPC1 supplies the deterministic 17.6 MHz configuration stream at every power-up, ensuring the instrument is ready within tens of milliseconds after VCC stabilizes. The DIP-8 footprint also suits the through-hole backplane style favored in 19-inch rack instruments. The PROM's OTP EPROM ensures that lab calibration firmware cannot be erased or overwritten during field deployment.
Recommended
Communication Line Card / Legacy Network Equipment
Telecom line cards and base-station controllers built around first-generation Altera FPGAs (APEX 20K, Mercury, Stratix GX) use the EPC1PC8CC to boot the FPGA in 60-100 ms before the system enters its bring-up handshake. Its EPROM technology guarantees bitstream integrity for 20+ years in service, matching the long-life-cycle requirements of carrier-grade telecom hardware. The DIP-8 socketed package simplifies factory pre-programming via the Altera Quartus ByteBlaster JTAG chain before the card is shipped to the OEM. The 3.3 V supply rails align with the -48 V telecom DC-DC conversion blocks common in legacy ATCA/cPCI designs.
Recommended
Avionics & Aerospace Legacy FPGA Boards
Legacy avionics subsystems and military FPGA boards qualify the EPC1PC8CC for flight-control and sensor-processing applications because the EPROM storage is immune to single-event upsets that affect modern Flash memory and provides guaranteed bitstream retention under thermal cycling from -40C to +85C. The DIP-8 through-hole package withstands the high-vibration environments of rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft better than surface-mount packages when properly staked. The 3.3 V supply supports legacy MIL-STD-704 and DO-160 power-conversion architectures. Each EPC1 ships factory-clean or field-programmable via the JTAG chain in a controlled environment, supporting the certification traceability required by DO-254 design assurance guidance.
Recommended
FPGA Development & Prototyping Boards
University labs, FPGA training courses, and prototyping platforms use the EPC1PC8CC on Cyclone, FLEX 10K, and MAX 7000 development boards because the through-hole DIP-8 package is socketable and lets students swap pre-programmed PROMs to demo different bitstreams without re-flashing. The 3.3 V supply is generated by the board's USB or barrel-jack regulator, and the EPC1's Passive Serial interface aligns with the Altera-supplied reference schematics in every EP1C/EPF10K dev kit. The DIP-8 package is also friendly to breadboard adapters, so educators can hand-wire configuration memories without custom PCB fabrication. The 17.6 MHz maximum DCLK supports full-speed configuration of Cyclone FPGAs within milliseconds.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPC1PC8CC β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPC1PC8 | EPC1PC8-NW | EPC1LC20 | EPC1LI20 | EPC1LLC20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Intel (formerly Altera) | Intel (formerly Altera) | Intel (formerly Altera) | Intel (formerly Altera) | Intel (formerly Altera) | Intel (formerly Altera) |
| Package | PDIP-8 | PDIP-8 (same) | PDIP-8 (same) | PDIP-8 family linkage via Site MPN list | PDIP-8 family linkage via Site MPN list | PDIP-8 family linkage via Site MPN list |
| Memory Size | 1 Mbit | 1 Mbit | 1 Mbit | 1 Mbit | 1 Mbit | 1 Mbit |
| Supply Voltage | 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 |
| Lead-Free / RoHS | No (Sn-Pb finish, CC suffix) | No (legacy Sn-Pb) | Yes (NW suffix = lead-free) | Yes (LC suffix) | Yes (industrial-grade lead-free) | Yes (extended-grade lead-free) |
| Configuration Interface | Altera Passive Serial | Altera Passive Serial | Altera Passive Serial | Altera Passive Serial | Altera Passive Serial | Altera Passive Serial |
| Cascade Support | No (DIP-8 single-device) | No (DIP-8 single-device) | No (DIP-8 single-device) | Yes (nCASC pin available) | Yes (nCASC pin available) | Yes (nCASC pin available) |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
| Unit Price (qty 1) | $18.50 | ~$18.50 | ~$19.20 | ~$14.50 | ~$17.00 | ~$22.00 |
Key Differentiators
- DIP-8 socketable through-hole package (vs EPC1LC20 (PLCC-20 surface mount))
- Lead-free / RoHS-compliant variant available with same footprint (vs EPC1PC8 (legacy Sn-Pb finish))
- Cascade support in PLCC-20 package for multi-device chains (vs EPC1LLC20 (PLCC-20 with nCASC pin))
Design Notes
The EPC1PC8CC draws up to 50 mA peak inrush during configuration; ensure the 3.3 V regulator can supply the FPGA's CONFIG_VCC load plus the PROM transient. Add a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as practical to the VCC pin (pin 4), and a 10 uF bulk capacitor on the same 3.3 V rail. Avoid placing the EPC1 on a shared analog rail - switching noise from DC-DC converters can couple into the nSTATUS pin and cause spurious configuration errors.
Route the Passive Serial signals (DATA, DCLK, nSTATUS, nCONFIG) as a tightly-coupled 4-wire bus between the EPC1PC8CC and the FPGA. Keep trace lengths under 50 mm to avoid signal-integrity issues at 17.6 MHz DCLK. Place the EPC1 within 25 mm of the FPGA configuration pins and add a 10 kohm pull-up on nSTATUS (open-drain) and a 10 kohm pull-up on nCONFIG. The DIP-8 socket should be aligned with pin 1 toward the FPGA to match typical Altera reference design orientation.
Do not assume the EPC1PC8CC is RoHS compliant - the CC suffix indicates Sn-Pb lead finish, which is non-compliant with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. For RoHS-compliant designs use EPC1PC8-NW (NW suffix = lead-free). Also note that the EPC1 is one-time programmable - a programming error cannot be corrected; designers must verify the bitstream with Quartus programmer before committing the device. Finally, the DIP-8 package cannot cascade with additional EPC devices; for multi-device configuration chains select the PLCC-20 (LC20) or TQFP (QI100) variants.
Place the EPC1PC8CC DIP-8 socket on the same side of the PCB as the target FPGA, oriented with pin 1 toward the FPGA's configuration bank. Keep the DCLK trace straight and short - avoid 90-degree bends, use 45-degree turns or arcs. Add a ground guard trace between the DATA line and any adjacent switching signals to reduce crosstalk. Mount the PROM socket at least 5 mm away from switching DC-DC converter inductors to avoid magnetic coupling into the configuration bus.
Compliance Information
EPC1PC8CC ships with Sn-Pb lead finish (CC suffix) and is RoHS non-compliant. For RoHS-compliant equivalent in the same footprint, select EPC1PC8-NW. REACH compliance status unknown per Intel/Altera documentation. AEC-Q100 qualification not applicable - configuration PROMs are not subject to automotive stress-test standards.
