EPF6016TC144-2 - FLEX 6000 FPGA 16K Gates 117 I/O TQFP-144 | Intel
MPN: EPF6016TC144-2 ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $28.5 | $28.50 |
| 10 | $24.75 | $247.50 |
| 100 | $19.4 | $1,940.00 |
| 500 | $16.2 | $8,100.00 |
| 1,000 | $13.85 | $13,850.00 |
EPF6016TC144-2 Overview
A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is a type of programmable logic device (PLD) that combines the density and performance of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) with the flexibility of in-system reprogrammability. Within the semiconductor hierarchy, an FPGA sits above simple PLDs and complex PLDs (CPLDs), and below full-custom ASICs. FPGAs are widely used for digital logic prototyping, glue logic, custom interface bridging, and pre-production ASIC emulation. The FLEX 6000 family specifically occupies the low-density, low-cost end of the Altera/Intel FPGA portfolio, optimized for glue logic and high-volume gate-array replacement.
Key specifications of the EPF6016TC144-2 include 16K typical gates, 1,320 logic cells, 117 user I/Os, a maximum internal frequency of 125 MHz, 5 V core supply, and 144-pin TQFP surface-mount packaging. The "-2" speed grade places the part in Altera's commercial speed bin. The device supports in-system programmability via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface and Altera's classic configuration schemes, making it suitable for both prototyping and production.
Architecturally, the FLEX 6000 family employs a look-up table (LUT)-based logic element with a continuous FastTrack interconnect routing fabric. Each logic element contains a 4-input LUT, a programmable register, and carry-chain support, enabling efficient implementation of arithmetic and state-machine designs. Embedded array blocks (EABs) provide dedicated memory functions for small FIFOs and ROM/RAM tables.
Typical applications include low-cost glue logic replacement, communications protocol bridging, industrial control and factory automation, pre-silicon ASIC prototyping, and educational development platforms. Engineers also deploy FLEX 6000 devices in legacy telecom line cards, motor-control interface logic, and custom sensor aggregation.
When designing with the EPF6016TC144-2, note that 5 V tolerance is a defining feature of this family, unlike newer low-voltage FPGAs. Use the Quartus II (or MAX+PLUS II) toolchain for design entry, synthesis, fitting, and programming file generation. Ensure decoupling is sufficient for the 5 V rail and that JTAG chain integrity is preserved across multi-device boards.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes (including Quartus support status) that are not consolidated in the original Altera datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for EPF6016TC144-2 — 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 EPF6016TC144-2 (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Operating Temperature, Configuration Method, Process Technology, Speed Grade.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPF6016ATC144-2
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$13.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF6016ATC144-2N
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$19.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF6016ATC144-3
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$9.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF6016ATC144-3N
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$12.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF6016ATC144-1
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$9.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF6016ATC144-1N
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$18.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPF6016TC144-2 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | FLEX 6000 |
| Typical Gates | 16,000 |
| Logic Elements / Cells | 1,320 |
| Maximum User I/O | 117 |
| Maximum Internal Frequency | 125 MHz |
| Process Technology | 0.42 µm CMOS |
| Core Supply Voltage | 5 V |
| Package | 144-pin LQFP / TQFP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Speed Grade | -2 |
| Configuration Interface | JTAG (IEEE 1149.1), serial, parallel |
| Operating Temperature (Commercial) | 0 °C to 85 °C |
| Programmable Logic Type | FPGA (SRAM-based) |
| Number of Pins | 144 |
EPF6016TC144-2 144-pin lqfp / tqfp Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for EPF6016TC144-2 (144-pin lqfp / tqfp 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 EPF6016TC144-2.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
EPF6016TC144-2 is suitable for 6 applications: Legacy Glue Logic Replacement, Custom Communication Protocol Bridges, Industrial Control and Factory Automation, Pre-Silicon ASIC Prototyping, Educational and Development Platforms, Legacy Telecom Line Card Logic.
Legacy Glue Logic Replacement
The EPF6016TC144-2 is a strong fit for legacy 5 V glue-logic replacement because it preserves 5 V tolerant I/O and 117 user I/Os in a single TQFP-144 package. With 16K gates and 1,320 logic elements at up to 125 MHz, it absorbs the discrete 74-series and PAL/GAL logic that used to populate older boards while fitting the same PCB footprint. The FLEX 6000 family was specifically architected for this use case: the 5 V core, JTAG configuration, and continuous FastTrack interconnect make pin-to-pin replacement of complex SSI/MSI logic straightforward. A key trade-off is power dissipation versus integration - one FLEX 6000 device replaces dozens of legacy packages, simplifying layout and reducing overall BOM.
Recommended
Custom Communication Protocol Bridges
The EPF6016TC144-2 fits custom protocol-bridge designs (UART/SPI/I2C aggregation, parallel-to-serial conversion, custom bus interfacing) thanks to its 117 user I/Os and 5 V tolerant banks. Up to 125 MHz internal operation supports common telecom and industrial bus rates (E1/T1, PROFIBUS, RS-485 multi-drop). The 4-input LUT-based logic elements with carry-chain support enable efficient implementation of CRC engines, Manchester encoders, and bit-stuffing serializers. Pair the FPGA with a small EAB-based FIFO buffer block to bridge between asynchronous domains. The 5 V I/O eliminates external level shifters when interfacing to legacy 5 V transceivers, which is a key advantage versus modern 3.3 V or 1.2 V FPGA families.
Recommended
Industrial Control and Factory Automation
The EPF6016TC144-2 (with the ATC industrial variant preferred) suits factory-automation controllers, PLC I/O expansion cards, and motor-control interface logic. Its 117 I/Os interface to opto-isolated 24 V field I/O via external level shifters, while internal logic runs at 5 V at up to 125 MHz for deterministic control loops. Designers implement PWM generation, quadrature decoding, and deterministic state machines in the LUT fabric. The FLEX 6000A revision improves ESD robustness for industrial environments. For harsh environments beyond 85 °C, the ATC temperature grade (-40 to 85 °C) is required; the standard TC grade is limited to 0-85 °C commercial environments.
Recommended
Pre-Silicon ASIC Prototyping
The EPF6016TC144-2 historically served as a pre-silicon ASIC emulator for low-density ASIC designs, allowing engineers to validate RTL before committing to mask costs. With 16K gates and 1,320 logic elements, it maps typical glue-logic ASIC blocks (bus interfaces, state machines, peripheral controllers). The JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) interface enables rapid in-system iteration cycles. Quartus II and MAX+PLUS II toolchains support incremental compilation. For modern ASIC prototyping, consider Cyclone IV or Cyclone V with higher density, but the FLEX 6000 remains valuable for legacy design re-spins and academic verification flows where the Quartus II toolchain is still licensed.
Recommended
Educational and Development Platforms
The EPF6016TC144-2 remains a useful teaching vehicle in university digital-design labs because of its manageable 16K-gate density, exposed JTAG chain, and mature Quartus II / MAX+PLUS II toolchain support. Students learn LUT-based logic, carry-chain arithmetic, and configuration schemes without the overhead of large FPGA fabrics. The 144-pin TQFP is breadboard-friendly via breakout boards. Legacy Altera development kits (e.g., Altera UP2) still circulate in academic environments. For new courses, MAX 10 or Cyclone IV boards offer better toolchain continuity, but the FLEX 6000 remains in active use at institutions that already own programming hardware.
Recommended
Legacy Telecom Line Card Logic
The EPF6016TC144-2 was widely deployed in legacy telecom line cards for framing, alarm collection, and cross-connect logic. Its 5 V tolerant I/O simplifies interface to legacy line-interface units, and the 117 I/Os accommodate multi-channel aggregation. Up to 125 MHz operation supports E1/T1 framing rates plus overhead processing. Embedded array blocks (EABs) implement small channel-association tables and look-up buffers. For new designs, FPGAs from the Cyclone family are preferred, but for sustaining legacy Class 5 switches and digital-loop-carrier systems, the FLEX 6000 family - including the EPF6016TC144-2 - continues to serve as a repair and maintenance component.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPF6016TC144-2 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPF6016ATC144-2 | EPF6016ATC144-2N | EPF6016ATC144-3 | EPF6016ATC144-3N | EPF6016ATC144-1 | EPF6016ATC144-1N |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | TQFP-144 | TQFP-144 (same) | TQFP-144 (same) | TQFP-144 (same) | TQFP-144 (same) | TQFP-144 (same) | TQFP-144 (same) |
| Brand | Intel (formerly Altera) | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel |
| Family | FLEX 6000 | FLEX 6000A | FLEX 6000A | FLEX 6000A | FLEX 6000A | FLEX 6000A | FLEX 6000A |
| Logic Elements / Cells | 1,320 | 1,320 (same) | 1,320 (same) | 1,320 (same) | 1,320 (same) | 1,320 (same) | 1,320 (same) |
| Typical Gates | 16K | 16K (same) | 16K (same) | 16K (same) | 16K (same) | 16K (same) | 16K (same) |
| Speed Grade | -2 (mid-tier commercial) | -2 (same) | -2 (same) | -3 (faster Fmax) | -3 (faster Fmax) | -1 (slower Fmax) | -1 (slower Fmax) |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0 to 85 °C (commercial) | -40 to 85 °C (industrial) | -40 to 85 °C (industrial) | -40 to 85 °C (industrial) | -40 to 85 °C (industrial) | -40 to 85 °C (industrial) | -40 to 85 °C (industrial) |
| Core Supply Voltage | 5 V | 5 V (same) | 5 V (same) | 5 V (same) | 5 V (same) | 5 V (same) | 5 V (same) |
| Approx. Unit Price (qty 1) | $28.50 (as of 2026-09-11) | $26-32 (typical, broker stock) | $28-34 (typical, broker stock) | $32-40 (faster grade premium) | $34-42 (faster grade + Pb-free) | $22-28 (slower grade discount) | $24-30 (slower grade + Pb-free) |
Key Differentiators
- Wider industrial operating temperature range on same die (vs EPF6016ATC144-2)
- Same die and pinout, drop-in PCB compatibility (vs EPF6016ATC144-2N)
- Faster -3 speed grade option for higher Fmax (vs EPF6016ATC144-3)
- Slower -1 speed grade option for cost-sensitive designs (vs EPF6016ATC144-1)
Design Notes
The EPF6016TC144-2 requires a clean 5 V supply; place bulk decoupling (10 µF tantalum or ceramic) at the board entry and 0.1 µF high-frequency decoupling within 5 mm of every VCCINT/VCCIO pin pair. Estimated: ICCINT scales with toggle rate and is typically 50-200 mA static plus dynamic component; budget the regulator for at least 500 mA per device. VCCIO banks may be tied to 5 V or 3.3 V depending on the I/O standard mix, but mixed-voltage banks must share a common reference. Add a power-good supervisor to gate nCONFIG during brown-out events to prevent partial configuration corruption.
In the 144-pin TQFP package, the EPF6016TC144-2 dissipates heat primarily through the perimeter leads; estimated θJA is approximately 35-45 °C/W on a 4-layer JEDEC board (lower with thermal vias under the exposed die pad, which the TQFP-144 does not have). At 125 MHz with high utilization (~80%), internal dissipation can reach 1-1.5 W. For sealed industrial enclosures without forced airflow, derate the clock frequency or reduce logic utilization to keep junction temperature below 100 °C. The ATC industrial variant (same die) tolerates -40 to 85 °C ambient and shares the same thermal envelope.
Route JTAG signals (TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO) with controlled impedance (50 Ω) and keep them away from switching power and clock traces; place a 10 kΩ pull-up on TCK and TMS per the Altera reference design. Estimated: route length matching within 50 ps prevents JTAG shift-register errors. Add a series 33 Ω resistor near the FPGA TDI/TDO pins to dampen ringing on long programming cables. For multi-device JTAG chains, verify TCO-to-TDI timing in the Quartus II Boundary-Scan Description File (BSDL) and place the chain in a single contiguous ground region.
Do not assume the EPF6016TC144-2 is still active - the FLEX 6000 family was discontinued by Altera (now Intel), and last-time-buy notifications were issued years ago. Stock must be sourced through distributors holding inventory (Heisener, Octopart-listed brokers) or independent component specialists; verify lot date codes and country of origin for traceability. Configuration memory (EPC1, EPC2) must match the FLEX 6000 family - newer EPCQ devices are not compatible. Designers migrating to active families (Cyclone IV, MAX 10) must perform a full PCB redesign because no drop-in cross-package alternative exists for the TQFP-144 footprint.
Assign unique pin locations in the Quartus II Pin Planner before PCB layout begins - swapping I/O bank assignments late in the design cycle can trigger multi-week re-spin loops. Place all configuration pins (nCONFIG, nSTATUS, CONF_DONE, MSEL0/MSEL1) on dedicated GPIO with pull-up/pull-down resistors per the datasheet selection table. Estimated: route all clocks on inner stripline layers with ground reference above and below; avoid layer changes within 5 mm of the FPGA clock input pin. Keep user I/O trace lengths matched within 100 ps for parallel bus interfaces to avoid setup/hold violations at 100 MHz+ operation.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, lead-free, and halogen-free status for the EPF6016TC144-2 are not documented in the Verified Web Data. Because the FLEX 6000 family predates wide RoHS adoption and the part is now obsolete, many original date codes are non-RoHS; Pb-free (N-suffix) variants exist for some speed grades. Confirm with distributor documentation before specifying for RoHS assemblies.
