EPF10K50EQC240-3 - FLEX 10KE FPGA, 50K Gates, 240-PQFP | Altera
MPN: EPF10K50EQC240-3 ⚠ Last Time Buy| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $45 | $45.00 |
| 10 | $38.5 | $385.00 |
| 100 | $29.75 | $2,975.00 |
| 500 | $24.2 | $12,100.00 |
| 1,000 | $21 | $21,000.00 |
EPF10K50EQC240-3 Overview
A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a semiconductor IC belonging to the broader class of programmable logic devices (PLDs). Within the device taxonomy hierarchy, an FPGA sits above simple PLDs/CPLDs and below fixed-function ASICs, occupying the system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) tier that combines dense logic, embedded array blocks, and user-configurable I/O. The FLEX 10KE family is one of Altera's earliest embedded PLD families, providing the first true SOPC integration with dedicated embedded array blocks alongside the logic array for implementing RAM, ROM, and FIFO functions directly in silicon.
Key features include 360 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), 40,960 typical bits of embedded memory, multi-voltage I/O support (2.5 V/3.3 V/5 V tolerant), in-system programmability via the serial configuration EPROM interface, and 0 to 70 C commercial temperature grading. The PQFP-240 package with 32 mm x 32 mm body and 0.5 mm lead pitch supports through-hole-compatible surface mounting and is one of the largest FQFP footprints offered in this generation.
Typical applications span legacy industrial glue logic, parallel bus interfacing (ISA/PCI bridges), telecommunications line cards, military/aerospace retrofit programs, and prototyping platforms where the FLEX 10KE's embedded array blocks replace discrete FIFO/RAM chips. The part is widely used in legacy designs from the late 1990s and is now primarily sourced through the secondary market, as Altera (now Intel FPGA) has shifted focus to Cyclone and Stratix families.
When designing with EPF10K50EQC240-3, ensure proper power sequencing: VCCINT (2.5 V core) must reach regulation before VCCIO banks drive outputs. Use the MAX+PLUS II or Quartus design tools for synthesis; older MAX+PLUS II projects import into modern Quartus with legacy device support. The PQFP-240 footprint requires substantial PCB real estate (roughly 32 mm x 32 mm plus lead clearance), so plan mechanical stack-up accordingly. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in pin-compatible alternatives, and practical obsolescence-management notes not found in the original manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for EPF10K50EQC240-3 — 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 EPF10K50EQC240-3 (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Process Technology, Package, Mounting Type, Operating Temperature, Series.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPF10K50EQC240-2N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$87.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50EQC240-2
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$65 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50EQC240-1N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$132.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50EQC240-1
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$26.8 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50EFC484-2
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$52.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50EQC240-3 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | FLEX 10KE |
| Device Type | FPGA - Field Programmable Gate Array |
| Logic Cells / Elements | 2880 |
| Typical Gate Count | 50000 |
| Number of LABs/CLBs | 360 |
| Total RAM Bits | 40960 |
| Number of I/Os | 189 |
| Internal Frequency | 166.67 MHz |
| Propagation Delay | 0.6 ns |
| Operating Supply Voltage (Core) | 2.5 V |
| Logic Family | CMOS |
| Process Technology | 0.22 um CMOS |
| Package Type | 240-BFQFP (PQFP-240, gull-wing) |
| Number of Terminals | 240 |
| Operating Temperature | 0 C to +70 C (Commercial) |
| Programming Method | In-system via serial configuration EPROM |
| Embedded Array Blocks | Yes (EABs for RAM/ROM/FIFO) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount (PQFP) |
EPF10K50EQC240-3 240-bfqfp (pqfp-240, gull-wing) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for EPF10K50EQC240-3 (240-bfqfp (pqfp-240, gull-wing) package). This digital IC includes GPIO, communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C), and power pins. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for alternate pin functions and configuration options. Essential for embedded system design and PCB layout.
No detailed pinout data available for EPF10K50EQC240-3.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
EPF10K50EQC240-3 is suitable for 6 applications: Legacy Industrial Glue Logic, Parallel Bus Interface Bridges (ISA/PCI), Telecommunications Line Cards, Military and Aerospace Retrofit Programs, Prototyping Platform for ASIC/ASSP Designs, Legacy Test and Measurement Equipment.
Legacy Industrial Glue Logic
The EPF10K50EQC240-3 fits legacy industrial glue logic applications where it replaces multiple 74-series TTL parts with a single programmable device, reducing board area and BOM count. Its 50K gates, 2,880 logic cells, and 189 user I/Os comfortably handle address decoding, bus arbitration, and timing logic for industrial PLCs and machine controllers. The 166.67 MHz internal frequency supports deterministic control loop response, while the 0 to 70 C commercial temperature range suits factory-floor enclosures. Designers can use Quartus II with legacy device support to recompile old MAX+PLUS II projects without redesign, extending the useful life of installed industrial systems.
Recommended
Parallel Bus Interface Bridges (ISA/PCI)
The EPF10K50EQC240-3 is well suited as a bridge between legacy ISA or PCI parallel buses and modern memory or peripheral interfaces. Its 189 user I/Os map cleanly to the 32-bit data path plus 32-bit address and control signals required for PCI 2.2 compliance, while the 360 LABs absorb the protocol state machines. The 0.6 ns propagation delay ensures timing margins are met at 33 MHz PCI clock. Embedded Array Blocks (EABs) implement small FIFOs directly in silicon, removing the need for external IDT7200-series FIFOs and saving board space and cost.
Recommended
Telecommunications Line Cards
The EPF10K50EQC240-3 was a popular choice for telecom line cards in the late 1990s and early 2000s, performing TDM bus multiplexing, HDLC framing, and glue logic between network processors and PHY devices. The 40,960 bits of embedded memory (EABs) implement small LUTs and packet buffers directly, eliminating external SRAM for control-plane operations. Its 240-pin PQFP package, while large by modern standards, was standard for telecom backplane designs of that era. Many installed systems remain in service, and the part is sought for repair and refurbishment of legacy central-office equipment.
Recommended
Military and Aerospace Retrofit Programs
The EPF10K50EQC240-3's mature 0.22 um CMOS process and extensive field history make it a candidate for military and aerospace retrofit programs where long-term availability of the original part is more important than cutting-edge performance. Its 2.5 V core supply, 189 I/Os, and 166.67 MHz Fmax suit avionics bus controllers, radar signal pre-processing, and flight-control test equipment. Designers should specify traceable lots, source through authorized brokers, and document RoHS exemptions (the original PQFP-240 package is typically SnPb-finished for solder-joint reliability under MIL-STD-810 thermal cycling).
Recommended
Prototyping Platform for ASIC/ASSP Designs
The EPF10K50EQC240-3 historically served as an ASIC prototype vehicle for system architects validating IP blocks before committing to mask ROM. Its 50K-gate capacity and 189 I/Os accommodate medium-complexity ASSP prototypes, while Quartus II provides synthesis, place-and-route, and timing analysis. Although modern prototyping favors Cyclone IV/V or Stratix, FLEX 10KE-based prototypes remain in active use at universities and research labs. The PQFP-240 package simplifies hand-soldering for student projects and one-off lab builds.
Recommended
Legacy Test and Measurement Equipment
The EPF10K50EQC240-3 is found inside legacy test and measurement instruments where it implements stimulus generation, response capture, and instrument-bus (GPIB/IEEE-488) interfaces. Its 240-pin PQFP footprint, 189 I/Os, and 40,960 embedded RAM bits accommodate pattern generators and digital capture buffers for low-speed logic analyzers and protocol testers. Refurbishment of installed ATE (Automatic Test Equipment) requires reliable long-term sourcing, which is the primary motivation for tracking this part on the secondary market. Replacement FPGAs would require complete instrument firmware qualification, so original-spec drop-ins are preferred.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPF10K50EQC240-3 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPF10K50EQC240-2N | EPF10K50EQC240-2 | EPF10K50EQC240-1N | EPF10K50EQC240-1 | EPF10K50EFC484-2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Altera (Intel) | Altera (Intel) | Altera (Intel) | Altera (Intel) | Altera (Intel) | Altera (Intel) |
| Package | PQFP-240 (gull-wing) | PQFP-240 (gull-wing) - same | PQFP-240 (gull-wing) - same | PQFP-240 (gull-wing) - same | PQFP-240 (gull-wing) - same | PQFP-240 marked, BGA-484 actual - verify |
| Typical Gate Count | 50000 | 50000 | 50000 | 50000 | 50000 | 50000 |
| Logic Cells/Elements | 2880 | 2880 | 2880 | 2880 | 2880 | 2880 |
| Speed Grade | -3 | -2 | -2 | -1 | -1 | -2 |
| Internal Frequency | 166.67 MHz | ~133 MHz | ~133 MHz | ~100 MHz | ~100 MHz | ~133 MHz |
| Propagation Delay | 0.6 ns | ~0.8 ns | ~0.8 ns | ~1.0 ns | ~1.0 ns | ~0.8 ns |
| Total RAM Bits (EABs) | 40960 | 40960 | 40960 | 40960 | 40960 | 40960 |
| User I/Os | 189 | 189 | 189 | 189 | 189 | 189 (datasheet) / different package |
| Core Voltage | 2.5 V | 2.5 V | 2.5 V | 2.5 V | 2.5 V | 2.5 V |
Key Differentiators
- Highest speed grade in the FLEX 10KE 50K PQFP-240 family (vs EPF10K50EQC240-2)
- Largest logic capacity at 240-pin PQFP (vs EPF10K30AQC240-3)
- Embedded Array Blocks (EABs) for on-chip memory (vs EPF10K10QC208-4)
Design Notes
The EPF10K50EQC240-3 requires three power rails: VCCINT (2.5 V core), VCCIO (per-bank, 2.5 V/3.3 V/5 V for I/O), and a PLL analog supply. Sequence VCCINT before VCCIO to avoid I/O driving into unpowered logic. Add 100 uF bulk + 0.1 uF decoupling per quadrant; the 240-pin PQFP draws transient currents up to 500 mA during configuration. Use a supervisor IC (e.g., MAX706) to hold nCONFIG low until all rails stabilize.
The 240-pin PQFP package occupies roughly 32 mm x 32 mm of PCB real estate plus lead-clearance margins. Plan escape routing carefully: the 0.5 mm lead pitch requires 0.2 mm traces with 0.15 mm clearances under typical 4-layer stack-ups. Tie all GND pins to a single ground plane with multiple vias for thermal dissipation. Add 4 mounting holes at the package corners for mechanical support during vibration and thermal cycling.
Common pitfalls: (1) Do not assume modern Quartus Prime supports FLEX 10KE - install the legacy device support add-on explicitly; (2) Configuration via serial EPROM requires the nCONFIG/nSTATUS handshake - check both before releasing reset; (3) EAB RAM initialization requires the .hex or .mif file to be loaded at configuration time, not at power-up; (4) JTAG chain ordering matters when multiple Altera devices are present - check BYPASS register lengths; (5) Verify Pb-free vs SnPb finish before soldering - many FLEX 10KE lots are SnPb for legacy reliability.
The 0.6 ns propagation delay translates to edge rates under 1 ns on output buffers, producing significant high-frequency content. For clock signals above 100 MHz, use series damping resistors (22-33 ohm) at the FPGA output to suppress reflections on the 50 ohm PCB trace. Match clock trace lengths to within 1 mm for parallel-bus designs at 33 MHz (PCI 2.2). Place the PLL filter components within 5 mm of the dedicated PLL power pin to minimize jitter.
Compliance Information
Original FLEX 10KE family parts were typically SnPb-finished for legacy reliability. RoHS/REACH status depends on lot date code - verify with supplier C-of-C. AEC-Q100 not applicable (commercial-grade FPGA). For military/aerospace, source through authorized brokers with full traceability documentation.
