EPF10K50VQI240-2N - FLEX 10K 50K-Gate FPGA, 240-PQFP, Industrial | Altera
MPN: EPF10K50VQI240-2N ⚠ Last Time Buy| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $95 | $95.00 |
| 10 | $84 | $840.00 |
| 100 | $72.5 | $7,250.00 |
| 500 | $62 | $31,000.00 |
| 1,000 | $55 | $55,000.00 |
EPF10K50VQI240-2N Overview
An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that allows designers to configure custom digital logic functions after PCB assembly. FPGAs sit within the broader semiconductor hierarchy as integrated circuits -> programmable logic devices -> FPGAs, complementing CPLDs (which target simpler glue logic) and ASICs (which trade programmability for cost and power at high volume). The FLEX 10K family, introduced by Altera in the mid-1990s, was notable for being the first PLD family to integrate dedicated memory blocks (EABs - Embedded Array Blocks), enabling System-on-a-Programmable-Chip (SOPC) designs with on-chip RAM, ROM, and FIFO functions.
Key features include embedded array blocks (EABs) for implementing megafunctions like efficient memory and specialized logic, 20,480 typical RAM bits distributed across the EABs, multiVolt I/O support for interfacing with 5V, 3.3V, and 2.5V logic, in-system programmability via the serial configuration EPROM interface, and full PCI 2.2 compliance for plug-and-play peripheral designs. The 240-BFQFP (gull-wing) package is a through-hole-compatible surface-mount form factor, which simplifies prototyping on adapter boards and rework in legacy systems.
From an architectural perspective, the FLEX 10K family uses a fine-grained, SRAM-based look-up-table (LUT) fabric with continuous, fast interconnect between Logic Array Blocks (LABs) and Embedded Array Blocks (EABs). The 'V' in the part number denotes 5V operation (vs. 'A' for 3.3V ACEX/3V FLEX 10KA variants), 'Q' indicates the PQFP package, 'I' specifies industrial temperature range, '240' is the pin count, and '-2N' is the speed grade (toggled against -1, -3, -4 grades).
Typical applications include legacy industrial glue logic replacement, PCI bus interface controllers, telecommunications backplane glue logic, prototyping bridges to ASIC designs, and migration paths for obsolete 5V programmable logic. Its 5V tolerance and large gate count make it a common drop-in for systems originally designed around the FLEX 10K platform.
When designing with this device, plan for an SRAM-based configuration memory that must be loaded at every power-up from a serial EPROM (EPC1, EPC2, or compatible). Modern Intel Quartus Prime no longer supports FLEX 10K as a new target; engineers maintaining legacy FLEX 10K designs typically use the legacy MAX+PLUS II toolchain. Ensure the 5V supply is well-decoupled near the VCCINT and VCCIO pins and that JTAG pins TCK/TMS/TDO/TDI are correctly terminated for boundary-scan test.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-brand and cross-brand drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the original Altera datasheet - useful for engineers maintaining or modernizing FLEX 10K-based systems in long-lifecycle industrial, telecom, and military programs.
Drop-in alternatives for EPF10K50VQI240-2N — 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 EPF10K50VQI240-2N (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Configuration Method, Process Technology, Series, Speed Grade, Operating Temperature.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPF10K50VQC240-2N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$10.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50VQC240-1N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$11.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50VQC240-3N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$49.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50VQC240-3
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$21.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50EQI240-2N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$52.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50EQC240-2N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$87.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50EQC240-3N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$59.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF10K50VQI240-2N Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Series | FLEX 10K |
| Family | FLEX 10K |
| Logic Cells / Elements | 2880 |
| Typical Gates | 50000 |
| LAB/CLB Count | 360 |
| Total RAM Bits | 20480 |
| Number of I/O | 189 |
| Voltage - Supply | 5 V (VCCINT), 5 V / 3.3 V / 2.5 V (VCCIO via multiVolt I/O) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (industrial, I-suffix) |
| Package / Case | 240-BFQFP (PQFP, gull-wing) |
| Number of Pins | 240 |
| Package Code | FQFP / PQFP |
| Terminal Form | GULL WING |
| Internal Frequency (max) | 125 MHz (per FindIC comparison data) |
| Propagation Delay | 0.6 ns (per digchip snippet) |
| Process Technology | 0.42 um CMOS |
| Configuration Method | SRAM, serial EPROM (EPC1/EPC2) |
| In-System Programmable | Yes |
| PCI Compliance | PCI Local Bus Specification Revision 2.2 |
| Speed Grade | -2 (medium) |
EPF10K50VQI240-2N fqfp / pqfp Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for EPF10K50VQI240-2N (fqfp / pqfp 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 EPF10K50VQI240-2N.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
EPF10K50VQI240-2N is suitable for 6 applications: Legacy Industrial Glue Logic Replacement, PCI Bus Interface Controllers, Telecommunications Backplane Glue Logic, ASIC Prototyping and Migration Bridge, Military and Aerospace Avionics Maintenance, Legacy Medical Imaging and Test Equipment.
Legacy Industrial Glue Logic Replacement
The EPF10K50VQI240-2N fits long-lifecycle industrial control systems where 5V tolerance and multiVolt I/O are critical for interfacing with 5V sensors, 3.3V microcontrollers, and 2.5V legacy ASICs. Its 50,000 typical gates and 2,880 logic elements provide enough capacity to consolidate discrete 74-series glue logic, address decoding, and custom state machines into a single reprogrammable device. The 240-PQFP package remains compatible with existing PCB layouts designed in the late 1990s and early 2000s, avoiding costly board re-spins. The 5V VCCINT is rare in modern FPGAs but essential for retrofitting into legacy 5V power architectures without level shifters.
Recommended
PCI Bus Interface Controllers
The EPF10K50VQI240-2N is fully compliant with PCI Local Bus Specification Revision 2.2, making it well suited for legacy PCI add-in cards, embedded PCI host bridges, and industrial backplane interface logic. Its 189 user I/Os comfortably handle the 32-bit PCI bus (32 multiplexed address/data lines, 4 command/byte-enable lines, plus parity and arbitration), leaving substantial capacity for on-chip DMA engines, scatter-gather controllers, and target-device state machines. The 240-PQFP package with 5V I/O tolerance is also pin-compatible with classic 5V PCI edge-connector signaling, eliminating the need for external bus switches or level shifters.
Recommended
Telecommunications Backplane Glue Logic
Telecommunications backplanes in legacy TDM, SONET, and SDH systems frequently use FLEX 10K FPGAs to bridge proprietary bus interfaces between line cards, switch fabrics, and shelf controllers. The EPF10K50VQI240-2N provides the 5V I/O tolerance required to interface with classic TTL buses, ECL/TTL level translators, and proprietary 8/16-bit backplane data paths. Its industrial temperature rating (-40C to +85C) makes it suitable for central-office and outdoor cabinet environments. The 189 I/Os and 360 LABs can implement serial-to-parallel converters, framing logic, and alarm/status aggregation in a single device.
Recommended
ASIC Prototyping and Migration Bridge
Designers in the late 1990s and early 2000s commonly used the EPF10K50VQI240-2N as an ASIC prototyping vehicle before committing to a full-mask ASIC spin. With 50,000 gates and 2,880 logic elements, the device is large enough to validate system-level RTL designs and gate-level netlists prior to ASIC hand-off. Its embedded array blocks (EABs) provide dual-port RAM, ROM, and FIFO megafunctions that mirror the on-chip memory macros found in ASIC libraries. The 240-PQFP package allows rapid board-iteration, and JTAG-based in-system programmability enables last-minute RTL changes without re-spinning the PCB.
Recommended
Military and Aerospace Avionics Maintenance
Long-lifecycle military and avionics platforms (deployed in the 2000s) often use FLEX 10K family FPGAs for mission computers, display controllers, and bus interface units. The EPF10K50VQI240-2N industrial-temp grade (-40C to +85C) is qualified for many non-ruggedized avionics subsystems where commercial-grade Cyclone or Spartan FPGAs cannot be substituted due to design re-validation costs. The 5V core tolerance remains valuable for interfacing with legacy 5V avionics buses including ARINC 429, MIL-STD-1553 transceivers, and discrete avionics I/O. Obsolescence management uses the EPF10K50 family as a sustainment target while modern FPGA migration is planned and qualified.
Recommended
Legacy Medical Imaging and Test Equipment
The EPF10K50VQI240-2N served as the core logic device in late-1990s ultrasound systems, patient monitors, and laboratory analyzers where mid-range programmable logic was needed for signal conditioning, image pipeline preprocessing, and instrument control. Its embedded array blocks (EABs) support fast dual-port RAM for line-buffer and frame-buffer functions, while the 189 I/Os accommodate multiple analog-to-digital converter channels, LCD/CRT display interfaces, and parallel sensor buses. Medical equipment manufacturers with regulatory commitments (FDA 510(k) cleared) often require form-fit-function replacement of the original FLEX 10K device, making drop-in same-package alternatives essential.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPF10K50VQI240-2N — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPF10K50VQC240-2N | EPF10K50EQI240-2N | EPF10K50VQC240-3N | EPF10K50EQC240-2N |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 240-BFQFP / 240-PQFP (gull-wing) | 240-BFQFP / 240-PQFP (gull-wing) - same | 240-BFQFP / 240-PQFP (gull-wing) - same | 240-BFQFP / 240-PQFP (gull-wing) - same | 240-BFQFP / 240-PQFP (gull-wing) - same |
| Brand | Altera (now Intel) | Altera (now Intel) - same brand | Altera (now Intel) - same brand | Altera (now Intel) - same brand | Altera (now Intel) - same brand |
| Core Voltage (VCCINT) | 5 V (FLEX 10K 'V') | 5 V (FLEX 10K 'V') | 3.3 V (FLEX 10KE 'E') | 5 V (FLEX 10K 'V') | 3.3 V (FLEX 10KE 'E') |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (industrial, I-suffix) | 0C to +70C (commercial, C-suffix) | -40C to +85C (industrial, I-suffix) | 0C to +70C (commercial, C-suffix) | 0C to +70C (commercial, C-suffix) |
| Speed Grade | -2 (medium) | -2 (medium) - same | -2 (medium) - same | -3 (faster) | -2 (medium) - same |
| Typical Gates | 50000 | 50000 | 50000 | 50000 | 50000 |
| Number of User I/Os | 189 | 189 | 189 | 189 | 189 |
| Family / Architecture | FLEX 10K (5V, original) | FLEX 10K (5V) | FLEX 10KE (3.3V, enhanced) | FLEX 10K (5V) | FLEX 10KE (3.3V, enhanced) |
Key Differentiators
- Original 5V FLEX 10K core (vs 3.3V FLEX 10KE 'E' variants) (vs EPF10K50EQI240-2N)
- Industrial temperature range (-40C to +85C) (vs EPF10K50VQC240-2N)
- Same-package 240-PQFP compatibility across the FLEX 10K family (vs EPF10K50VFC484-3N)
Design Notes
The EPF10K50VQI240-2N requires a stable 5V VCCINT supply and a separate VCCIO supply for the multiVolt I/O banks (5V, 3.3V, or 2.5V depending on the connected logic). Place 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitors on every VCCINT and VCCIO pin pair, located within 100 mils of each pin, plus a single 47 uF to 100 uF bulk tantalum or aluminum-polymer capacitor near the package. FLEX 10K FPGAs draw substantially more current during configuration than in steady-state operation (estimated: burst current up to ~500 mA peak vs ~150 mA typical user-mode), so the 5V regulator must tolerate the inrush without sagging below 4.75V.
Route all FLEX 10K clock and global signal traces as 50-ohm microstrip or stripline on the top layer over a continuous ground plane. Keep the nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, DCLK, and DATA0 configuration traces short (under 2 inches total length) and guarded by ground pour to avoid noise-induced configuration failures. JTAG chain order (TCK/TMS/TDO/TDI/TRST) must follow the JTAG BSDL file exactly; if multiple Altera devices share the JTAG chain, route TDI/TDO in series and ensure TRST is properly terminated per the FLEX 10K datasheet JTAG chapter.
Three common pitfalls with FLEX 10K designs: (1) Forgetting that SRAM-based FPGAs lose configuration on power-cycle and MUST be reloaded from a serial EPROM or ByteBlaster every power-up - never assume 'in-system programmable' means non-volatile. (2) Using the wrong MSEL0/MSEL1/MSEL2 strap pins - these select between AS (active serial), AP (active parallel), PS (passive serial), and JTAG-only configuration modes; incorrect strapping causes configuration failure. (3) Trusting 'I-suffix' industrial-temp part number markings without verifying the actual datasheet chapter - confirm the -40C to +85C ambient rating applies to the specific speed grade and package combination you ordered.
Allocate dedicated ground pour under the 240-PQFP thermal pad area; while the PQFP-240 is a plastic package without an exposed thermal pad, a continuous ground pour beneath the device improves thermal dissipation and reduces ground bounce. Keep the LVDS / high-speed clock traces away from the I/O bank edges and reserve one quiet VCCIO bank for noise-sensitive analog-adjacent signals. For multi-FPGA designs, isolate each device's VCCINT with a ferrite bead to prevent inrush current from one device triggering brown-out on its neighbors.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, lead-free, halogen-free, and conflict-mineral status are not stated in the verified web data; specific compliance values must be confirmed against the manufacturer's datasheet and product page. AEC-Q100 is not applicable because this is an FPGA, not an automotive-grade IC with explicit AEC qualification.
