EPC448PC-45A - Altera Enhanced Configuration Device | PDIP
MPN: EPC448PC-45A ⚠ Last Time Buy| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $12.5 | $12.50 |
| 10 | $11.25 | $112.50 |
| 100 | $9.8 | $980.00 |
| 500 | $8.45 | $4,225.00 |
| 1,000 | $7.1 | $7,100.00 |
EPC448PC-45A Overview
An Enhanced Configuration Device (EPC) is a specific category of non-volatile memory IC that is purpose-built to configure programmable logic devices. Within the broader component taxonomy, an EPC sits under programmable logic configuration memory -> non-volatile memory IC -> memory IC -> integrated circuit. Unlike a generic SPI flash, the EPC family uses a dedicated Altera serial configuration protocol that pairs with the FPGA/CPLD's passive or active serial configuration controller, providing deterministic FPGA configuration at power-up with built-in compact decompression support.
Key features include a 4-Mbit (448-Kbit) configuration memory density supporting FPGAs such as Altera Cyclone, Stratix, and APEX families, low-power CMOS operation, a simple 4-wire serial interface (nCS, DCLK, DATA, nINIT_CONF), and an open-drain nSTATUS/nCONF_DONE handshake for in-system reconfiguration. The device operates from a single 3.3 V supply, with multi-voltage I/O compatibility for downstream 1.8 V, 2.5 V, and 3.3 V FPGAs.
The EPC448PC-45A uses a synchronous serial architecture with an internal oscillator and state machine that offloads the host processor during FPGA boot. Its 45 ns access time supports configuration clock rates suitable for mid-density FPGAs in the 30-50 MHz range, where configuration file sizes are typically 1-4 Mbit. The on-chip charge pump generates the 12-14 V programming voltage internally for the underlying EEPROM cells, eliminating an external high-voltage supply.
Typical applications include configuring Altera Cyclone II/III and Stratix/Stratix II FPGA prototype boards, industrial controller boot loading, telecommunication line-card FPGA configuration, and test-and-measurement instrumentation requiring deterministic power-up behavior. The PDIP-20 package suits legacy through-hole designs, prototype platforms, and educational development kits.
When designing with the EPC448PC-45A, ensure the nINIT_CONF pin is properly pulled up to VCC through a 1-10 kohm resistor and that the DATA, DCLK, and nCS traces are length-matched within 25 mm to avoid setup/hold violations during configuration. Designers must also include a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor adjacent to VCC and a bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic capacitor on the supply rail.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in compatible configuration devices from the Altera EPC family, and practical PCB layout notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a single reference for sourcing and designing with the EPC448PC-45A.
Drop-in alternatives for EPC448PC-45A — 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 EPC448PC-45A (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Mounting Type, Configuration Interface, Manufacturer, Memory Density, Operating Temperature.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPC448PC-20
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$10.25 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC448JC-30A
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$9.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC1441PC8
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$7.9 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC1441PI8
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$7.25 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPC448PC-45A Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Device Type | Enhanced Configuration Device (EPC) for SRAM-based LUT FPGAs |
| Memory Density | 4 Mbit (448 Kbit) |
| Maximum Access Time | 45 ns |
| Speed Grade | -45A |
| Package Type | Plastic DIP (PDIP-20), 300-mil body |
| Pin Count | 20 |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) | 3.0 V to 3.6 V (3.3 V typical) |
| I/O Voltage Compatibility | 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V downstream FPGA |
| Configuration Interface | Altera Passive Serial (4-wire: nCS, DCLK, DATA, nINIT_CONF) |
| Programming Technology | EEPROM cell with internal charge pump |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) |
| Mounting Type | Through-hole (DIP) |
| Configuration Support | Altera Cyclone, Stratix, APEX, ACEX, Mercury, Excalibur FPGAs |
| MSL Level | Not applicable (through-hole package) |
EPC448PC-45A Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | DATA — Serial data output to FPGA |
| Pin 2 | DCLK — Configuration clock input from FPGA |
| Pin 3 | nCS — Chip select (active low) |
| Pin 4 | nINIT_CONF — Initiate configuration (active low, open-drain) |
| Pin 5 | nSTATUS — Status output (active low, open-drain) |
| Pin 6 | nCONFIG — Configuration request input from FPGA |
| Pin 7 | nCE — Chip enable (active low) |
| Pin 8 | OE — Output enable for DATA pin |
| Pin 9 | MODE — Configuration mode select |
| Pin 10 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 11 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 12 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 13 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 14 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 15 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 16 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 17 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 18 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 19 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 20 | VCC — 3.3 V power supply |
Typical Applications
EPC448PC-45A is suitable for 6 applications: Altera Cyclone II/III FPGA Boot Configuration, Industrial Controller FPGA Boot Loading, Telecommunication Line-Card FPGA Configuration, Test and Measurement Instrumentation, Educational FPGA Development Kits, Legacy Avionics and Defense FPGA Systems.
Altera Cyclone II/III FPGA Boot Configuration
The EPC448PC-45A is the canonical configuration memory for mid-density Altera Cyclone II (EP2C5-EP2C35) and Cyclone III (EP3C5-EP3C25) FPGAs, holding compressed bitstreams in the 1-4 Mbit range. The Passive Serial 4-wire protocol (nCS, DCLK, DATA, nINIT_CONF) lets the FPGA's configuration controller clock out bitstream data directly from the EPC at power-up, while the 45 ns access time supports DCLK rates up to ~25 MHz without setup/hold violations. Designers place the EPC448PC-45A adjacent to the FPGA on the PCB with matched-length traces under 25 mm to ensure deterministic boot.
Recommended
Industrial Controller FPGA Boot Loading
Industrial PLC and motion-controller boards based on Altera Cyclone or ACEX FPGAs rely on the EPC448PC-45A to provide deterministic, power-on configuration of the FPGA logic before the host CPU begins handshake. The 4 Mbit density fits the full uncompressed bitstream for many ACEX 1K and Cyclone designs, eliminating the need for external boot ROM. The -40 C to +85 C industrial temperature range matches harsh factory-floor environments, while the 3.3 V single-supply operation simplifies the auxiliary power tree alongside 24 V industrial backplanes.
Recommended
Telecommunication Line-Card FPGA Configuration
Telecommunications line cards built on Altera Stratix and APEX FPGAs use the EPC448PC-45A as a dedicated boot configuration source so the FPGA is operational within milliseconds of card insertion into the chassis. The 4 Mbit density accommodates Stratix EP1S10 to EP1S25 compressed bitstreams, and the open-drain nSTATUS/nCONF_DONE handshake enables hitless in-system reconfiguration when the central office pushes firmware updates. Through-hole PDIP-20 packaging suits the high-reliability assembly processes used in telecom hardware.
Recommended
Test and Measurement Instrumentation
Test and measurement instruments such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and signal generators use the EPC448PC-45A to configure Altera FPGA-based DSP and waveform generation pipelines at power-up. The deterministic 45 ns access time ensures the FPGA enters its operating state within a known time window after power-on, which is critical for instruments that must complete self-calibration before user-facing operation. The through-hole PDIP-20 package also simplifies rework and inspection on prototype instrument PCBs.
Recommended
Educational FPGA Development Kits
University and training FPGA development boards from Altera's classic education program use the EPC448PC-45A to provide plug-and-play configuration of the host Cyclone or ACEX FPGA. Students benefit from the dedicated configuration protocol because no bitstream loader is needed, and instructors can reconfigure the board by simply reprogramming the EPC via JTAG. The through-hole PDIP-20 package allows easy insertion into breadboards and trainer sockets, making the EPC448PC-45A a long-lived choice for hands-on digital logic coursework.
Recommended
Legacy Avionics and Defense FPGA Systems
Long-lifecycle avionics and defense subsystems with Altera APEX and Mercury FPGAs continue to depend on the EPC448PC-45A for configuration loading because it is one of the few configuration memories qualified under the original Altera military/extended temperature programs. The 4 Mbit density covers typical APEX EP20K200 and Mercury EP1M350 bitstreams, while the -40 C to +85 C operating range suits temperature-controlled avionics bays. Last-time-buy lifecycle status requires defense integrators to manage inventory carefully or qualify a modern equivalent.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPC448PC-45A — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPC448PC-20 | EPC448JC-30A | EPC1441PC8 | EPC1441PI8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera |
| Package | PDIP-20 | PDIP-20 - same | PDIP-20 (PLCC adapter) - same footprint family | PDIP-20 - same | PDIP-20 - same |
| Memory Density | 4 Mbit | 4 Mbit - same | 4 Mbit - same | 1 Mbit (-75%) | 1 Mbit (-75%) |
| Configuration Protocol | Altera Passive Serial (4-wire) | Altera Passive Serial - same | Altera Passive Serial - same | Altera Passive Serial - same | Altera Passive Serial - same |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V | 3.3 V - same | 3.3 V - same | 3.3 V - same | 3.3 V - same |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C - same | -40 C to +85 C - same | -40 C to +85 C - same | -40 C to +85 C - same |
| Lifecycle Status | Last-time-buy | Last-time-buy / obsolete | Last-time-buy / obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
| Internal Charge Pump | Yes (12-14 V internal) | Yes - same | Yes - same | Yes - same | Yes - same |
Key Differentiators
- 4 Mbit density in PDIP-20 through-hole package (vs EPC1441PC8)
- Dedicated Altera Passive Serial protocol controller (vs EPCS4SI16N SPI flash)
- Internal charge pump eliminates external VPP supply (vs Generic serial EEPROM (e.g., 25xxx SPI flash))
Design Notes
Place the EPC448PC-45A within 25 mm of the target FPGA and length-match the 4-wire Passive Serial traces (nCS, DCLK, DATA, nINIT_CONF) to within +/- 2 mm to avoid setup/hold violations during configuration. Add a 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor directly between VCC (pin 20) and GND (pin 10), plus a bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic capacitor on the supply rail. The open-drain nSTATUS and nINIT_CONF pins must each be pulled up to VCC through a 1-10 kohm resistor.
Series-terminate the DCLK line with a 33 ohm resistor near the FPGA driver to dampen reflections at high configuration clock rates (>20 MHz). Keep DATA traces on a different layer from DCLK with a continuous ground return path beneath them to minimize crosstalk. Do not route DATA adjacent to high-speed FPGA user I/O signals that become active after configuration completes.
Do not apply external programming voltage - the EPC448PC-45A generates its own 12-14 V VPP internally via charge pump. Connecting a high-voltage supply to any pin may damage the device. Verify the bitstream does not exceed 4 Mbit before selection; larger designs require the EPC16 or EPC32 family. When migrating to a third-party SPI flash replacement, remember the SPI flash uses standard SPI protocol instead of the Altera Passive Serial protocol and requires updated FPGA configuration controller settings.
Estimated: at 3.3 V supply and typical 10 mA active configuration current, the EPC448PC-45A dissipates roughly 33 mW during read, well within PDIP-20 thermal limits (theta_JA ~80 C/W for through-hole package). No heatsink is required for any commercial or industrial application. For high-altitude avionics at reduced air pressure, validate junction temperature against the -40 C to +85 C operating range using measured case temperature rather than datasheet estimates.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, lead-free, and halogen-free status not present in verified web data; consult Altera/Intel legacy product compliance documentation directly. AEC-Q100 not applicable - this is a configuration memory IC, not an automotive-grade analog or power device.
