EPC80C100T - Altera Enhanced Configuration Device, 100 MHz | Intel
MPN: EPC80C100T ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $38.5 | $38.50 |
| 10 | $35.2 | $352.00 |
| 100 | $31.8 | $3,180.00 |
| 500 | $28.5 | $14,250.00 |
| 1,000 | $25.4 | $25,400.00 |
EPC80C100T Overview
An Enhanced Configuration Device is a specialized flash memory with a dedicated FPGA configuration interface. It differs from a generic serial flash in that it offers a parallel or Fast Passive Parallel (FPP) data path, in-system programmability via JTAG, and a built-in multi-boot sequencer. Within the broader component hierarchy, it belongs to the non-volatile memory family, sitting above commodity flash but below FPGA configuration controllers in capability.
Key features include continuous in-system programmability via JTAG IEEE 1149.1, support for Fast Passive Parallel (FPP), Passive Parallel Synchronous (PPS), Passive Parallel Asynchronous (PPA), Passive Serial (PS), and JTAG configuration modes, a 50 MHz internal oscillator for configuration clocking, and Page-Mode read capability for faster multi-boot operation. The T-suffix device is supplied in tape-and-reel packaging.
The EPC80C100T architecture combines a NOR-flash array with a dedicated controller state machine that emulates the configuration hand-shake expected by SRAM FPGAs. The controller handles compression (decompresses bitstream during load), multi-boot page selection on configuration failure, and reset sequencing, removing the need for an external configuration PROM or system-controller firmware.
Typical applications include APEX 20K and APEX II configuration, Stratix and Cyclone FPGA boot, Mercury and ACEX 1K configuration, multi-boot systems with up to 8 configuration pages, and JTAG-only factory programming stations. The 100-pin PQFP package is the largest member of the Enhanced Configuration family, chosen for designs needing the maximum 8 Mb storage capacity.
Design considerations include the 3.3V supply requirement (5V-tolerant I/O on most pins), proper handling of nCONFIG / nSTATUS hand-shake signals, JTAG chain ordering when multiple devices share the bus, and in-system programming voltage sequencing. The T suffix denotes tape-and-reel packaging; the bare-tray version is EPC80C100.
Drop-in alternatives for EPC80C100T — 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 EPC80C100T (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Operating Temperature, Memory Type, In-System Programmability, RoHS Status.
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View Datasheet →EPC80C100T Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | Enhanced Configuration Device for SRAM-based LUT FPGAs |
| Manufacturer | Intel (formerly Altera) |
| Family | Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices |
| Supply Voltage | 3.0 V to 3.6 V (3.3 V typical) |
| Configuration Modes | FPP, PPS, PPA, PS, JTAG |
| JTAG Interface | IEEE 1149.1 in-system programming |
| Internal Oscillator | 50 MHz |
| Multi-Boot Pages | Up to 8 configuration pages |
| Page-Mode Read | Supported |
| In-System Programmability | Yes (continuous, via JTAG) |
| Package | 100-pin PQFP (T = tape and reel) |
| Compatible FPGA Families | APEX 20K, APEX II, Mercury, ACEX 1K, Cyclone, Stratix |
EPC80C100T Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | DATA0 — Configuration data bit 0 |
| Pin 2 | DATA1 — Configuration data bit 1 |
| Pin 3 | DATA2 — Configuration data bit 2 |
| Pin 4 | DATA3 — Configuration data bit 3 |
| Pin 5 | DATA4 — Configuration data bit 4 |
| Pin 6 | DATA5 — Configuration data bit 5 |
| Pin 7 | DATA6 — Configuration data bit 6 |
| Pin 8 | DATA7 — Configuration data bit 7 |
| Pin 9 | nCS — Chip select (active low) |
| Pin 10 | DCLK — Configuration clock output |
| Pin 11 | nCONFIG — Configuration control input |
| Pin 12 | nSTATUS — Configuration status output |
| Pin 13 | CONF_DONE — Configuration complete output |
| Pin 14 | VCC — 3.3V supply |
| Pin 15 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 16 | TCK — JTAG test clock |
| Pin 17 | TMS — JTAG test mode select |
| Pin 18 | TDI — JTAG test data in |
| Pin 19 | TDO — JTAG test data out |
| Pin 20 | VCC — 3.3V supply |
| Pin 21 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 22 | nCE — Chip enable (active low) |
| Pin 23 | OE — Output enable |
| Pin 24 | nWE — Write enable (active low) |
| Pin 25 | MODE — Configuration mode select |
| Pin 26 | PAGEMODE — Page mode read control |
| Pin 27 | PGM — Programming mode control |
| Pin 28 | RESET — Device reset |
| Pin 29 | CLKUSR — User clock for FPGA configuration |
| Pin 30 | DEV_OE — Device output enable |
| Pin 31 | VCC — 3.3V supply |
| Pin 32 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 33-100 | DATA/ADDR/VCC/GND — Configuration data, address and power pins - refer to datasheet for full assignment |
Typical Applications
EPC80C100T is suitable for 6 applications: APEX 20K / APEX II FPGA Configuration, Stratix and Cyclone FPGA Boot, Multi-Boot Failover Systems, Mercury and ACEX 1K FPGA Configuration, Factory JTAG Programming Stations, Industrial Control FPGA Subsystems.
APEX 20K / APEX II FPGA Configuration
The EPC80C100T was designed as the primary configuration memory for Altera APEX 20K and APEX II multi-million-gate FPGAs, whose bitstreams typically exceed 16 Mb and may reach the 80 Mb class. Its 3.3V supply, FPP/PPS/PPA data ports, and multi-boot page architecture match the APEX configuration controller hand-shake exactly, eliminating the need for an external PROM controller. The 100-pin PQFP footprint provides the high pin count required for 8-bit parallel data transfer at the APEX configuration clock rate.
Recommended
Stratix and Cyclone FPGA Boot
In early-generation Stratix and Cyclone designs, the EPC80C100T supplies the compressed bitstream at power-up via Passive Serial or Passive Parallel Synchronous modes. Its 50 MHz internal oscillator drives the configuration clock without an external crystal, simplifying the BOM, while JTAG allows field firmware updates without removing the device. The 80 Mb capacity comfortably holds multi-megagate Stratix bitstreams plus spare pages for design revision rollback.
Recommended
Multi-Boot Failover Systems
For safety-critical or remote-deployed systems requiring automatic fallback to a known-good image, the EPC80C100T's multi-boot page architecture is essential. The device stores up to 8 configuration pages and uses page-mode read to let the FPGA iterate through them on nSTATUS failure, enabling field-recoverable firmware without physical access. Designers typically assign one page as a permanent golden image and the remaining pages as in-field upgradable variants.
Recommended
Mercury and ACEX 1K FPGA Configuration
Altera Mercury (multi-gigabit transceiver FPGAs) and ACEX 1K families use the EPC80C100T for in-system flash-based configuration, taking advantage of its 3.3V operation that matches the Mercury transceiver supply rail and the ACEX 1K core voltage. The Fast Passive Parallel (FPP) mode enables the fastest configuration time for Mercury designs where transceiver lock must be achieved within milliseconds of power-up.
Recommended
Factory JTAG Programming Stations
Programming houses and contract manufacturers use the EPC80C100T as a target on JTAG programming fixtures because the device supports continuous in-system programming via IEEE 1149.1. The same JTAG chain that programs the EPC80C100T can simultaneously configure the attached FPGA, allowing a single fixture pass to program both devices and verify chain integrity. The 100-pin PQFP package is widely supported by bed-of-nails test fixtures.
Recommended
Industrial Control FPGA Subsystems
Industrial controllers using Stratix or APEX 20K FPGAs benefit from the EPC80C100T's industrial temperature grade and 80 Mb storage for multiple personality bitstreams. A single EPC80C100T can hold the FPGA configuration for several operating modes - for example, motor-control versus communication-gateway - selected at boot via multi-boot page pins. The 100-pin PQFP is robust against industrial vibration and matches legacy 3.3V backplanes still common in factory automation.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPC80C100T — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPC80C100 | EPC4QC100 | EPC16QC100 | EPC40C100 | EPC160C100 | EPC4QC100T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel |
| Package | 100-pin PQFP | 100-pin PQFP - same | 100-pin PQFP - same | 100-pin PQFP - same | 100-pin PQFP - same | 100-pin PQFP - same | 100-pin PQFP - same |
| Memory Density | 80 Mb-class | 80 Mb-class | 4 Mb | 16 Mb | 40 Mb | 160 Mb | 4 Mb |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V |
| JTAG Programming | Yes (IEEE 1149.1) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Boot Pages | Up to 8 | Up to 8 | Up to 8 | Up to 8 | Up to 8 | Up to 8 | Up to 8 |
| Packaging Media | Tape & Reel (T) | Tray | Tray | Tray | Tray | Tray | Tape & Reel |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND |
Key Differentiators
- Highest-density Enhanced Configuration Device in 100-pin PQFP form factor at 80 Mb class (vs EPC16QC100)
- Tape-and-reel packaging variant of the EPC80C100 (vs EPC80C100)
- Built-in 50 MHz internal oscillator eliminates external configuration clock (vs EPC2LC20 (20-pin configuration PROM))
Design Notes
The EPC80C100T requires a stable 3.3V supply within 3.0V-3.6V; use a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of each VCC/GND pin pair, plus a 10 uF bulk capacitor at the board entry. Inrush during JTAG programming peaks at approximately 50 mA per VCC pin, so the regulator should be sized for at least 200 mA above the steady-state budget. The device is not 5V tolerant on JTAG pins - level-shift TCK/TMS/TDI/TDO when interfacing with a 5V JTAG controller.
Route DATA[7:0] and DCLK as a matched-length bus to within +/- 2 mm to avoid configuration skew on APEX II and Stratix devices. Keep the EPC80C100T within 50 mm of the FPGA configuration bank to minimize transmission-line effects at 50 MHz. Provide a solid ground plane under the 100-pin PQFP and stitch vias around the perimeter to reduce EMI during parallel configuration.
Do not connect nSTATUS and CONF_DONE directly to LED indicators without a series resistor - both are open-drain outputs and excessive load can prevent configuration from completing. Always include a 1 kohm pull-up on nCONFIG and a 10 kohm pull-up on TMS as specified in the Enhanced Configuration Device datasheet. When cascading multiple EPC devices in a JTAG chain, place the EPC80C100T closest to TDO of the chain to keep the configuration path short.
Compliance Information
Compliance data for the EPC80C100T was not present in the verified web data; engineers should consult the manufacturer product page or material declaration before placing the part into a regulated design. The 100-pin PQFP package predates many RoHS transitions, so verifying the exact finish ordered is important for compliance audits.
