EPM3512AQC208-7N/I208-10N - 512-Macrocell MAX 3000A CPLD | Altera
MPN: EPM3512AQC208-7N/I208-10N ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $28.5 | $28.50 |
| 10 | $24.95 | $249.50 |
| 100 | $19.8 | $1,980.00 |
| 500 | $15.4 | $7,700.00 |
| 1,000 | $12.1 | $12,100.00 |
EPM3512AQC208-7N/I208-10N Overview
A CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) is a non-volatile programmable logic IC that sits between simple SPLDs/PLDs and higher-density FPGAs in the programmable logic hierarchy (CPLD -> PLD -> programmable logic -> digital semiconductor). MAX 3000A devices use a classic LAB (Logic Array Block) architecture with EEPROM configuration memory, providing instant-on behavior at power-up without external boot PROM. This makes MAX 3000A ideal for glue logic, bus interfacing, state-machine control, and power-up deterministic logic replacement where FPGAs add unnecessary cost or boot latency.
Key features include 32 Logic Array Blocks (LABs) with 16 macrocells each, IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary-scan test support, IEEE 1532-compliant ISP, multiVolt I/O supporting 2.5 V and 3.3 V interfacing, and programmable interconnect with predictable timing. The 208-pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) package offers 0.5 mm pitch gull-wing leads suitable for standard SMT assembly lines and is compatible with commercial-grade (0C to 70C) operating environments.
The architecture combines a programmable AND/OR array within each macrocell, individually programmable flip-flops, and a global interconnect that delivers fast, deterministic tPD and tCO timing. The on-chip EEPROM cell delivers zero-power standby because configuration is retained without power, and the JTAG/IEEE 1532 interface allows field reprogramming via standard 4-wire JTAG or Altera ByteBlaster cables. The part also includes user I/O pin-locking to preserve board layout when minor logic revisions are made.
Typical applications include I/O expansion and bus bridging for legacy microcontrollers, address decoding for memory-mapped peripherals, asynchronous state-machine control in industrial controllers, and glue-logic replacement of discrete 74-series TTL/MSI in telecommunications backplane and white-goods designs. The deterministic timing and low power consumption also make it suitable for power-management sequencing in multi-rail systems.
When designing with this device, observe the VCCINT (3.3 V core) and VCCIO (2.5 V or 3.3 V I/O) decoupling recommendations from the MAX 3000A Family Data Sheet. Place one 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor per VCC pin cluster and ensure JTAG TMS/TCK/TDO/TDI lines are pulled to a defined logic level. Use the Altera MAX+PLUS II or Quartus II design tools for schematic/VHDL/Verilog entry and ISP programming.
Drop-in alternatives for EPM3512AQC208-7N/I208-10N — 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 EPM3512AQC208-7N/I208-10N (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Operating Temperature, Package, Logic Array Blocks (LABs), User I/Os, Propagation Delay (tPD).
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPM3512AQC208-10N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$42.8 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM3512AQC208-10
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$22.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM3512AQC208-15N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$20.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM3512AQC208-3N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$16.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM3256AQC208-10N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM3512AQI208-10N
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$12.9 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM3512AQC208-7N/I208-10N Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Device Family | MAX 3000A |
| Macrocells | 512 |
| Usable Gates | 10,000 |
| Logic Array Blocks (LABs) | 32 |
| User I/Os | 172 |
| Package | 208-pin PQFP (FINE LINE) |
| Pin Count | 208 |
| Pin/Package Type | FQFP, Gull Wing, Surface Mount |
| Propagation Delay (tPD) | 7.5 ns (-7N) / 10 ns (-10N) |
| Counter Speed (max) | 116.3 MHz (-7N) / 87 MHz (-10N) |
| Supply Voltage VCCINT | 3.3 V (3.0 V to 3.6 V) |
| MultiVolt I/O (VCCIO) | 2.5 V or 3.3 V |
| Logic Family | CMOS EEPROM |
| Programming Interface | IEEE Std. 1149.1 JTAG / IEEE Std. 1532 ISP |
| Boundary-Scan Test (BST) | Yes (IEEE 1149.1) |
| In-System Programmability (ISP) | Yes (IEEE 1532 compliant) |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to 70C (Commercial) |
EPM3512AQC208-7N/I208-10N fqfp, gull wing, surface mount Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for EPM3512AQC208-7N/I208-10N (fqfp, gull wing, surface mount 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 EPM3512AQC208-7N/I208-10N.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
EPM3512AQC208-7N/I208-10N is suitable for 6 applications: Address Decoding and Bus Interfacing, Legacy Industrial Glue Logic Replacement, Power-Supply Sequencing and Reset Control, Telecommunications Backplane Control, State-Machine and Protocol-Conversion Controllers, I/O Expansion and Level Translation.
Address Decoding and Bus Interfacing
The EPM3512AQC208-7N is well-suited to address decoding and bus bridging tasks because its 512 macrocells and 172 user I/Os can host wide combinational decode trees without consuming FPGA fabric. Its 7.5 ns tPD fits legacy 33 MHz PCI and asynchronous memory-mapped bus timing budgets. Placed between a host CPU and peripheral memories, the part generates chip-select strobes from a high-order address bus while its EEPROM-based configuration provides zero-power standby and instant-on behavior at power-up. Unlike microcontrollers or FPGAs, the CPLD does not require boot code, making it ideal for deterministic power-on reset decoding.
Recommended
Legacy Industrial Glue Logic Replacement
The EPM3512AQC208-7N excels as a single-chip replacement for boards built from dozens of 74LS/74HC TTL/MSI packages. With 512 macrocells and 172 user I/Os it can absorb an entire glue-logic netlist, simplifying the PCB and reducing the bill of materials. The 3.3 V core with multiVolt 2.5 V/3.3 V I/O banks allows it to bridge between 5 V-tolerant legacy peripherals (via level shifters) and modern 3.3 V controllers. The -7N speed grade's 7.5 ns tPD is fast enough for most asynchronous state-machine transitions in factory automation backplanes, and the JTAG/1532 ISP flow lets field engineers update logic without removing the part from the board.
Recommended
Power-Supply Sequencing and Reset Control
Multi-rail systems such as telecom line cards and ATX power distribution boards require deterministic power-up sequencing, and the EPM3512AQC208-7N delivers this through its EEPROM-backed instant-on logic and 7.5 ns tPD. With 512 macrocells the part can monitor multiple voltage rails via comparators and assert sequenced enable signals to downstream DC-DC converters and load switches. Its low standby current (no configuration fetch required) and commercial 0C to 70C range suit indoor telecom and server backplane applications. JTAG ISP allows late-stage sequencing changes during board bring-up, while the boundary-scan test (BST) support per IEEE 1149.1 simplifies in-circuit test coverage.
Recommended
Telecommunications Backplane Control
Telecom backplanes and access multiplexers often need bus arbitration, line-card presence detect, and alarm aggregation logic that must respond in single-digit nanoseconds. The EPM3512AQC208-7N delivers 7.5 ns tPD and 116.3 MHz counter speed, suitable for these timing-critical control paths. Its 172 user I/Os are sufficient to monitor dozens of line-card status LEDs and hardware alarm inputs, and the JTAG/1532 ISP flow allows remote firmware updates. The 208-pin PQFP is a through-hole-friendly gull-wing package that simplifies rework on legacy telecom boards; the part's CMOS EEPROM process yields low power consumption in always-on central-office equipment.
Recommended
State-Machine and Protocol-Conversion Controllers
The EPM3512AQC208-7N is well-suited to hosting asynchronous state machines that bridge between incompatible serial or parallel protocols - for example UART-to-I2C bridging, SPI-to-parallel LCD control, or proprietary bus conversion in test fixtures. With 512 macrocells, 32 LABs, and 172 user I/Os, the part can implement multiple parallel state machines plus their associated glue logic. The 7.5 ns tPD handles most serial-protocol edge-to-edge timing at speeds up to 50 MHz, while JTAG ISP allows rapid state-machine revisions during firmware bring-up. EEPROM-backed configuration means the part comes up with the right state machine instantly on every power cycle, no boot delay.
Recommended
I/O Expansion and Level Translation
The EPM3512AQC208-7N's multiVolt I/O architecture (VCCIO selectable per bank at 2.5 V or 3.3 V) makes it an effective I/O expander and level translator between mismatched logic domains. With 172 user I/Os the part can fan out a single microcontroller I/O bank to dozens of LEDs, relays, or sensor inputs, while the EEPROM-backed configuration eliminates firmware dependencies. The 7.5 ns tPD keeps the added propagation delay below the threshold of most human-interface response budgets (keypad scanning, LED multiplexing). JTAG ISP and IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan make this CPLD a strong choice for prototyping boards where pin assignments will evolve.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPM3512AQC208-7N/I208-10N — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPM3512AQC208-10N | EPM3512AQC208-10 | EPM3512AQC208-15N | EPM3512AQC208-3N | EPM3256AQC208-10N | EPM3512AQI208-10N |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera |
| Package | 208-pin PQFP | 208-pin PQFP - same | 208-pin PQFP - same | 208-pin PQFP - same | 208-pin PQFP - same | 208-pin PQFP - same | 208-pin PQFP - same |
| Macrocells | 512 | 512 | 512 | 512 | 512 | 256 | 512 |
| User I/Os | 172 | 172 | 172 | 172 | 172 | 164 | 172 |
| Logic Array Blocks (LABs) | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 16 | 32 |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to 70C (Commercial) | 0C to 70C (Commercial) | 0C to 70C (Commercial) | 0C to 70C (Commercial) | 0C to 70C (Commercial) | 0C to 70C (Commercial) | -40C to 85C (Industrial) |
| Supply Voltage VCCINT | 3.3 V (3.0-3.6 V) | 3.3 V (3.0-3.6 V) | 3.3 V (3.0-3.6 V) | 3.3 V (3.0-3.6 V) | 3.3 V (3.0-3.6 V) | 3.3 V (3.0-3.6 V) | 3.3 V (3.0-3.6 V) |
| Programming Interface | JTAG / IEEE 1532 ISP | JTAG / IEEE 1532 ISP | JTAG / IEEE 1532 ISP | JTAG / IEEE 1532 ISP | JTAG / IEEE 1532 ISP | JTAG / IEEE 1532 ISP | JTAG / IEEE 1532 ISP |
Key Differentiators
- Fastest speed grade in the EPM3512 family for 512-macrocell PQFP-208 CPLDs (vs EPM3512AQC208-10N)
- Twice the macrocell density of the EPM3256 family in the same 208-pin PQFP (vs EPM3256AQC208-10N)
- Through-hole-friendly gull-wing PQFP package versus BGA-only F256 variants (vs EPM3512AFC256-10)
- Commercial temperature grade for cost-sensitive indoor applications (vs EPM3512AQI208-10N)
Design Notes
Place one 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor adjacent to every VCCINT and VCCIO pin cluster on the 208-pin PQFP. The MAX 3000A datasheet recommends a bulk 10-100 uF tantalum or aluminum-polymer capacitor near the package to supply the inrush current during JTAG/ISP programming. Use a solid ground plane on an inner PCB layer directly beneath the PQFP body to provide a low-impedance return path for the high-edge-rate I/O switching transients.
Although CPLD outputs have modest edge rates compared to FPGAs, route clock and JTAG signals (TMS, TCK, TDO, TDI) as short, impedance-controlled traces (50 ohm single-ended) and avoid routing them parallel to fast-switching I/O banks. Keep JTAG traces clear of the I/O bank drivers to prevent noise coupling into the TCK line, which could cause ISP programming failures. Place a 10 kohm pull-up on TCK and a 10 kohm pull-up on TMS per the IEEE 1149.1 recommendation to define idle logic levels.
Do not confuse the EPM3512AQC208-7N (208-pin PQFP) with the EPM3512AFC256-10 (256-pin FineLine BGA): both share the same MAX 3000A die and 512 macrocells, but the packages are completely different - PCB migration requires redesign. Also note that the -7N, -10N, and -15N suffixes refer to timing grades within the same pinout; all three are drop-in compatible with identical JTAG pinouts, so a single PCB can be assembled with any grade for yield-management purposes.
Assign VCCIO bank voltages carefully: the MAX 3000A allows each I/O bank to run at 2.5 V or 3.3 V independently, but mixing banks on the same physical row requires careful pinout planning. Use the Quartus II or MAX+PLUS II pin planner to assign banks before laying out the PCB, and verify that every I/O assigned to a bank can tolerate the selected VCCIO voltage. JTAG pins TMS/TCK/TDO/TDI live in a dedicated bank that should be tied to VCCIO = 3.3 V to be compatible with standard ByteBlaster/USB-Blaster cables.
Compliance Information
MAX 3000A family was introduced before RoHS mandates took full effect; the EPM3512AQC208-7N was historically available in leaded and lead-free variants. RoHS compliance status was not explicitly stated in the verified web data; please confirm with the distributor at order time.
