EPM7256SRC208-10N - MAX 7000S CPLD 256 Macro | Intel
MPN: EPM7256SRC208-10N β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $42.5 | $42.50 |
| 10 | $38.25 | $382.50 |
| 100 | $34 | $3,400.00 |
| 500 | $30.6 | $15,300.00 |
| 1,000 | $27.2 | $27,200.00 |
EPM7256SRC208-10N Overview
A CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) is a programmable logic IC built from an array of macrocells connected by a programmable interconnect matrix. Unlike an FPGA, a CPLD stores its configuration in non-volatile EEPROM, so it is instantly active at power-up with no external configuration memory. In the logic-IC hierarchy, a CPLD sits between simple programmable logic devices (SPLDs/PALs) and FPGAs, and belongs to the broader programmable logic device (PLD) family within digital integrated circuits.
The MAX 7000S family uses Altera's second-generation MAX architecture with EEPROM-based logic elements. The EPM7256S provides 5,000 usable gates, 256 macrocells, and 164 I/O pins, with each macrocell offering programmable flip-flop and product-term allocation. The -10 speed grade gives 10 ns tPD and 100 MHz counter frequency, while the -10N suffix denotes lead-free (Pb-free) RoHS-compliant construction. In-system programmability (ISP) via the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary-scan interface allows field reconfiguration without removing the device from the board.
Typical applications include PCI/ISA bus glue logic, address decoding, DMA control, state machines for industrial controllers, and interface bridging between legacy 5 V peripherals and modern logic. The 5.0 V core and I/O make it a natural fit for retrofits and legacy industrial designs where 3.3 V-only devices cannot drive existing TTL-level buses directly.
When designing with the EPM7256SRC208-10N, note that the 208-pin RQFP requires careful thermal and signal-integrity planning at 100 MHz, and that the device is programmed through the JTAG port with a compatible USB-Blaster or ByteBlaster cable. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for EPM7256SRC208-10N β 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 EPM7256SRC208-10N (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Package, Operating Temperature, RoHS Status, Pin-to-Pin Delay (tPD), Configuration Memory.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPM7256SRC208-10
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$27.2 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPM7256SQC208-10N
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
EPM7256SQC208-10
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$11.2 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPM7256SQC208-7N
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$27.2 / Unit
View Datasheet βEPM7256SQC208-15N
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
Contact for price
View Datasheet βEPM7256AEQC208-10N
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
EPM7256SRC208-10N Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Device Type | CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) |
| Family | MAX 7000S |
| Macrocells | 256 |
| Usable Gates | 5,000 |
| User I/O Pins | 164 |
| Pin-to-Pin Delay (tPD) | 10 ns |
| Maximum Counter Frequency | 100 MHz |
| Supply Voltage | 5.0 V |
| Configuration Memory | EEPROM (non-volatile) |
| In-System Programmability | Yes (IEEE 1149.1 JTAG) |
| Package | 208-pin RQFP (PowerQuad Flat Pack) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (commercial) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (N suffix = lead-free) |
| Logic Levels | 5.0 V TTL/CMOS compatible |
EPM7256SRC208-10N 208-pin rqfp (powerquad flat pack) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for EPM7256SRC208-10N (208-pin rqfp (powerquad flat pack) 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 EPM7256SRC208-10N.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
EPM7256SRC208-10N is suitable for 6 applications: PCI/ISA Bus Glue Logic, Industrial Automation Controller, Telecom Line Card Interface, Test and Measurement Instrumentation, Legacy System Retrofit and Repair, Military and Aerospace Legacy Avionics.
PCI/ISA Bus Glue Logic
The EPM7256SRC208-10N fits PCI and ISA bus glue-logic designs because its 164 user I/O pins and 10 ns pin-to-pin delay can implement address decoding, wait-state generation, and bus arbitration without discrete logic. Operating from a 5.0 V supply with TTL-compatible I/O, it drives legacy 5 V backplanes directly, eliminating level shifters. The 256 macrocells provide ample product-term capacity for complex decode equations, while EEPROM configuration makes the logic active immediately at power-up with no external boot memory. A typical implementation places the CPLD between the host bus and peripheral controllers, using JTAG for in-system updates during field service. The trade-off is higher static power than modern 3.3 V CPLDs, but the direct 5 V interface remains valuable in industrial and telecom retrofit boards.
Recommended
Industrial Automation Controller
In industrial automation, the EPM7256SRC208-10N implements state machines, encoder interfaces, and I/O expansion for PLC and motion-control cards. Its 256 macrocells and 100 MHz counter frequency support multi-axis pulse generation and deterministic sequencing, while the 5.0 V I/O tolerates the noisy electrical environment of factory floors better than lower-voltage logic. The 208-pin RQFP provides 164 I/O for driving opto-isolators, relays, and sensor front ends. Because configuration is stored in EEPROM, the controller boots deterministically after a power interruption, an important requirement for safety-related machinery. Designers typically pair the CPLD with a microcontroller for high-level decisions while the CPLD handles hard real-time timing. The main trade-off is board area for the 208-pin package versus a smaller modern device.
Recommended
Telecom Line Card Interface
Telecom line cards use the EPM7256SRC208-10N for protocol glue, timeslot interchange control, and backplane interface logic. The device's 164 I/O pins and 10 ns propagation delay meet the timing margins of TDM and legacy SONET/SDH control paths, while 5.0 V operation matches the signaling of older telecom backplanes. The 256 macrocells allow implementation of HDLC framing helpers, interrupt aggregation, and register files without an FPGA. EEPROM-based configuration ensures the line card is operational within microseconds of power-up, avoiding the configuration-load delay of SRAM FPGAs. JTAG in-system programming supports remote firmware updates through the backplane. The trade-off is that the MAX 7000S family is obsolete, so new telecom designs should evaluate modern CPLDs while existing cards continue to use this device for spares.
Recommended
Test and Measurement Instrumentation
Test and measurement instruments use the EPM7256SRC208-10N for trigger logic, timing generation, and digital I/O sequencing. The 10 ns pin-to-pin delay and 100 MHz counter frequency provide the timing resolution needed for pulse generators and logic analyzers, while 256 macrocells implement complex trigger state machines. The 5.0 V I/O interfaces directly with legacy instrument buses such as GPIB and VME, avoiding level-translation circuitry. EEPROM configuration guarantees repeatable power-up behavior, which is critical for calibration integrity. Designers often use the CPLD alongside precision ADCs and DACs to coordinate acquisition timing. The main limitation is the obsolete lifecycle status, so instruments in long production runs should qualify a drop-in alternative or plan a redesign to a modern programmable logic device.
Recommended
Legacy System Retrofit and Repair
The EPM7256SRC208-10N is widely used to repair and retrofit legacy 5 V systems where the original CPLD has failed or become unavailable. Its 208-pin RQFP footprint matches existing MAX 7000S sockets, and the 256-macrocell capacity allows re-implementation of original glue logic from archived JEDEC programming files. Because the device is EEPROM-based, a programmed part can be dropped into a repaired board and is immediately functional without configuration memory. JTAG in-system programming enables field updates using a USB-Blaster or ByteBlaster cable. The primary challenge is sourcing authentic parts, since the family is obsolete and counterfeits exist; buyers should verify date codes and provenance. Where long-term supply is required, the EPM7256SRC208-10 leaded version is a pin-compatible fallback.
Recommended
Military and Aerospace Legacy Avionics
Legacy avionics and military systems use the EPM7256SRC208-10N for discrete I/O control, bus interfacing, and safety-critical sequencing where 5.0 V logic and deterministic EEPROM configuration are required. The 164 user I/O pins and 256 macrocells support redundant channel control and built-in-test logic, while the 10 ns speed grade meets timing margins for MIL-STD-1553 and ARINC interface glue. EEPROM configuration ensures the device is active immediately after power-up, an important property for flight-control and mission-computer subsystems. The commercial temperature grade (0C to +70C) limits direct use in extreme environments, so designers typically apply thermal management or select extended-temperature variants. Because the MAX 7000S family is obsolete, sustainment programs should stockpile qualified parts or plan a form-fit-function replacement.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPM7256SRC208-10N β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPM7256SRC208-10 | EPM7256SQC208-10N | EPM7256AEQC208-10N |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 208-pin RQFP | 208-pin RQFP - same | 208-pin PQFP - same pin count | 208-pin PQFP - same pin count |
| Brand | Intel | Intel | Intel | Intel |
| Macrocells | 256 | 256 | 256 | 256 |
| User I/O Pins | 164 | 164 | 164 | 164 |
| Pin-to-Pin Delay (tPD) | 10 ns | 10 ns | 7 ns | 15 ns |
| Supply Voltage | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V |
| Configuration Memory | EEPROM (non-volatile) | EEPROM (non-volatile) | EEPROM (non-volatile) | EEPROM (non-volatile) |
| Lead-Free (RoHS) | Yes (N suffix) | No (leaded) | Yes (N suffix) | Yes (N suffix) |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Lead-free RoHS construction with identical logic capacity (vs EPM7256SRC208-10)
- RQFP (PowerQuad) package outline (vs EPM7256SQC208-10N)
- Balanced 10 ns speed grade (vs EPM7256SQC208-7N)
Design Notes
Decouple every VCC pin of the EPM7256SRC208-10N with a 0.1 uF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the pin, plus at least one 10 uF bulk capacitor per power plane. The MAX 7000S family draws significant transient current during macrocell switching at 100 MHz; inadequate decoupling causes ground bounce and erratic logic behavior. Use a solid ground plane and keep the decoupling loop area minimal. Estimated: at 5.0 V and typical ICC of a few hundred milliamps, total power dissipation can exceed 1 W, so verify the thermal design against the package theta_JA.
Route the JTAG signals (TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO) as short, matched traces with a continuous ground reference, and keep TCK away from high-speed I/O to avoid clocking spurious states during in-system programming. Place the JTAG header close to the device and add a pull-up on TMS and a pull-down on TCK per the MAX 7000 family programming guidelines. For the 208-pin RQFP, use the exposed thermal/ground pad as intended by the land pattern and connect it to the ground plane with multiple vias.
Do not assume the EPM7256SRC208-10N is a drop-in for MAX 7000A or MAX 7000E devices without checking the pinout and voltage compatibility; the A and E families add enhanced global clocking and fast input registers that change some pin functions. Also confirm the 'N' suffix: the lead-free version requires a higher reflow peak temperature than the leaded part. Because the family is obsolete, program and verify each device before board assembly, and archive the JEDEC programming file for future spares.
Compliance Information
The 'N' suffix in EPM7256SRC208-10N denotes lead-free (Pb-free) RoHS-compliant construction. REACH, halogen-free, and conflict-minerals status were not stated in the retrieved web data and are marked unknown rather than assumed.
