EPM7256AETC100-7 - 256-Macrocell MAX 7000A CPLD, 7.5ns TQFP-100 | Intel
MPN: EPM7256AETC100-7 ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18.5 | $18.50 |
| 10 | $16.2 | $162.00 |
| 100 | $13.95 | $1,395.00 |
| 500 | $12.1 | $6,050.00 |
| 1,000 | $10.45 | $10,450.00 |
EPM7256AETC100-7 Overview
A CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) is a non-volatile programmable logic device that combines multiple PAL/GAL-like macrocell arrays on a single chip with predictable, deterministic timing. CPLDs sit in the broader taxonomy of programmable logic devices (PLD -> CPLD/FPGA -> logic IC -> integrated circuit), filling the niche between simple gate arrays and high-density FPGAs. They are favored for glue logic, bus interfacing, state-machine control, and power-up instant-on applications where deterministic timing and in-system programmability are required.
The EPM7256AETC100-7 features 256 macrocells organized in logic array blocks (LABs), with each macrocell containing a programmable AND/OR array and a configurable flip-flop. The device supports in-system programmability (ISP) via JTAG (IEEE 1149.1), eliminating the need for a separate programmer. Its 3.3 V core supply with 5 V tolerant I/O on selected pins enables easy interfacing with mixed-voltage systems, while the 7.5 ns tPD supports high-speed control applications at frequencies up to 126.6 MHz.
Typical applications include bus interface bridging (PCI, ISA, VME), peripheral glue logic, address decoding and chip-select generation, state-machine controllers, and power-up sequencing logic in microcontroller and ASIC systems. The MAX 7000A architecture also includes programmable interconnect switches, user-defined macrocell flip-flop clocks, and a global clear pin for synchronous design initialization.
When designing with this part, note that the device has been classified as obsolete/end-of-life by Intel - consider the EPM7256AETC100-7N or EPM7256AETI100-7N variants for new designs. Verify the tPD speed grade (7 = 7.5 ns) and temperature grade (C = commercial 0 to 70C) match your application requirements before substituting.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible MAX 7000A drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for EPM7256AETC100-7 — 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 EPM7256AETC100-7 (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Operating Temperature, Series, Process Technology, Programming Interface.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPM7256AETC100-10N
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$13.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM7256AETC100-7N
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$48.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM7256AETI100-7
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
EPM7256AETC100-5N
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$9.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM7256AEFC100-7
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$15.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM7256AEFC100-10N
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$24.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM7256AETC100-7 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | MAX 7000A |
| Series | EPM7256 |
| Device Type | CPLD - Complex Programmable Logic Device |
| Technology | EEPROM-based, CMOS |
| Macrocells | 256 |
| Usable Gates | 5,000 |
| Number of I/Os | 84 |
| Number of Logic Array Blocks (LABs) | 16 |
| Core Supply Voltage | 3.3 V |
| Pin-to-Pin Delay (tPD) | 7.5 ns |
| Maximum Operating Frequency | 126.6 MHz |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (Commercial) |
| Package | TQFP-100 (ET100) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Programming Interface | JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) - In-System Programmable |
| RoHS Status | Unknown - part marked obsolete |
| Memory Type | EEPROM (non-volatile) |
EPM7256AETC100-7 Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 2 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 3 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 4 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 5 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 6 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 7 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 8 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 9 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 10 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 11 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 12 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 13 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 14 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 15 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 16 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 17 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 18 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 19 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 20 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 21 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 22 | VCCINT — Core supply voltage (3.3 V) |
| Pin 23 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 1) |
| Pin 24 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 25 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 26 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 27 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 28 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 29 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 30 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 31 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 32 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 33 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 34 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 35 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 36 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 37 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 38 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 39 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 40 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 41 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 42 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 43 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 44 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 45 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 46 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 47 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 48 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 49 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 50 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 51 | TDI — JTAG Test Data In |
| Pin 52 | TMS — JTAG Test Mode Select |
| Pin 53 | TCK — JTAG Test Clock |
| Pin 54 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 55 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 56 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 57 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 2) |
| Pin 58 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 59 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 60 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 61 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 62 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 63 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 64 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 65 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 66 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 67 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 68 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 69 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 70 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 71 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 72 | VCCIO — I/O supply voltage (3.3 V) |
| Pin 73 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 74 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 75 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 76 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 77 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 3) |
| Pin 78 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 79 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 80 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 81 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 82 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 83 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 84 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 85 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 86 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 87 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 88 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 89 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 90 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 91 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 92 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 93 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 94 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 95 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 96 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 97 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 98 | TDO — JTAG Test Data Out |
| Pin 99 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
| Pin 100 | I/O — User I/O pin (bank 4) |
Typical Applications
EPM7256AETC100-7 is suitable for 6 applications: PCI Bus Interface Bridge, Address Decoding & Chip-Select Generation, Industrial State-Machine Controller, Power-Up Sequencing & Reset Distribution, Peripheral Glue Logic Replacement, Legacy System Modernization.
PCI Bus Interface Bridge
The EPM7256AETC100-7's 256 macrocells and 84 user I/Os provide ample capacity to implement a 32-bit PCI target interface with parity generation, address decoding, and command/byte-enable logic. Its 7.5 ns tPD supports the 33 MHz PCI clock with comfortable setup/hold margin, while the non-volatile EEPROM configuration eliminates the FPGA configuration delay that would violate PCI bus-power-up timing. The JTAG ISP interface enables field firmware updates without board removal.
Recommended
Address Decoding & Chip-Select Generation
With 256 macrocells and 5,000 usable gates, the EPM7256AETC100-7 can decode multi-bank memory maps and generate chip-select signals for an entire microcontroller-based system. The deterministic 7.5 ns propagation delay ensures that chip-selects arrive ahead of the memory access cycle, preventing bus contention. The 84 I/Os support up to 30+ chip-select outputs plus address/data passthrough, and the JTAG ISP allows last-minute memory map adjustments during prototype bring-up.
Recommended
Industrial State-Machine Controller
The EPM7256AETC100-7 is ideal for implementing complex multi-state control machines in industrial automation. Its 256 macrocells support state machines with 16-32 states plus associated timing/counter logic, while the 126.6 MHz internal frequency enables fast cycle times. The non-volatile EEPROM ensures the controller starts in a defined state on every power-up - critical for safety interlocks. For -40C to +85C industrial environments, the EPM7256AETI100-7 industrial-temp variant provides the same logic with extended temperature range.
Recommended
Power-Up Sequencing & Reset Distribution
The MAX 7000A CPLD powers up with all I/Os tri-stated and configuration loaded in microseconds - faster than any FPGA - making the EPM7256AETC100-7 ideal for power-up sequencing in multi-rail systems. Its 84 I/Os support sequencing of 20+ voltage rails with programmable delays implemented in macrocell counters. The non-volatile EEPROM eliminates the need for external boot PROMs, simplifying BOM and reducing board area compared to FPGA-based solutions.
Recommended
Peripheral Glue Logic Replacement
The EPM7256AETC100-7 replaces 5-10 discrete 74-series logic chips with a single programmable device, reducing PCB area and BOM cost. Its 256 macrocells can implement latches, multiplexers, encoders, and bus transceivers in one package, while design changes require only a JTAG re-flash rather than board respins. The 7.5 ns tPD matches 74F-series logic timing, ensuring transparent drop-in replacement for legacy glue logic.
Recommended
Legacy System Modernization
When EOL notices hit legacy 5-V GAL/PAL designs, the EPM7256AETC100-7 provides a 3.3-V programmable alternative with comparable timing and far greater logic density. Its JTAG ISP allows in-circuit reprogramming for last-minute logic fixes, while the non-volatile EEPROM maintains the deterministic power-up behavior expected in aerospace and defense legacy systems. The commercial temperature grade suits most indoor industrial retrofits.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPM7256AETC100-7 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPM7256AETC100-10N | EPM7256AETC100-7N | EPM7256AETI100-7 | EPM7256AETC100-5N |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Intel (Altera) | Intel (Altera) | Intel (Altera) | Intel (Altera) | Intel (Altera) |
| Package | TQFP-100 | TQFP-100 - same | TQFP-100 - same | TQFP-100 - same | TQFP-100 - same |
| Macrocells | 256 | 256 | 256 | 256 | 256 |
| Pin-to-Pin Delay (tPD) | 7.5 ns | 10 ns (-33%) | 7.5 ns (identical) | 7.5 ns (identical) | 5 ns (+33%) |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | 0C to +70C (Commercial) |
| Core Supply Voltage | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V |
| User I/Os | 84 | 84 | 84 | 84 | 84 |
| Programming Interface | JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) | JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) | JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) | JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) | JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Faster 7.5 ns speed grade versus -10 variant (vs EPM7256AETC100-10N)
- Commercial temperature grade available at lower cost (vs EPM7256AETI100-7)
- 256 macrocells with 84 user I/Os in TQFP-100 (vs EPM7256AETC100-5N)
Design Notes
The EPM7256AETC100-7 requires a stable 3.3 V supply on VCCINT (pin 22) and VCCIO (pin 72). Place 0.1 uF decoupling capacitors within 3 mm of each VCC pin and a bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic capacitor near the package. According to the MAX 7000A datasheet, inrush current during ISP programming can reach 200 mA peak - ensure the 3.3 V regulator can supply this transient. Add a power-on reset supervisor if the host system does not provide clean POR signaling.
Route JTAG signals (TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO on pins 51-53, 98) in a single daisy-chain with 10 kohm pull-ups on TCK/TMS/TDI for reliable boundary-scan operation. Keep JTAG trace lengths under 100 mm and avoid routing parallel to clock or switching signals. Place a 4-pin 0.1-inch JTAG header on the board edge for programming access. The 84 user I/Os can be assigned to any function - use Quartus pin planner to lock assignments and reserve unused pins as outputs driving low.
Do not confuse the EPM7256AETC100-7 with the EPM7256AETI100-7 - the latter is industrial temperature grade and costs more. Verify both voltage (3.3 V vs 5 V) and temperature grade (C = commercial vs I = industrial) before PCB assembly, as the suffix letter indicates the temperature range. When migrating designs to modern parts, note that the MAX 7000A is obsolete - consider the MAX II EPM240T100C5N or MAX V 5M160ZE64C5N for new designs, but verify JTAG and pinout compatibility.
Compliance Information
Compliance status not explicitly stated in verified web data. The -7N suffix variants are typically lead-free/Pb-free, but the base -7 part may contain lead finishes. For new designs requiring RoHS, choose EPM7256AETC100-7N. Part is classified obsolete by Intel.
