EPM9480RC208-15N - MAX 9000 CPLD 480 Macro Cells | Altera
MPN: EPM9480RC208-15N ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $0 | $0.00 |
| 10 | $0 | $0.00 |
| 100 | $0 | $0.00 |
| 500 | $0 | $0.00 |
| 1,000 | $0 | $0.00 |
EPM9480RC208-15N Overview
A CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) is a programmable logic IC that combines multiple programmable logic array blocks with a programmable interconnect matrix, allowing designers to implement custom digital logic functions without fabricating a custom ASIC. CPLDs sit between simple PLDs (PAL/GAL) and FPGAs in the programmable logic hierarchy, offering deterministic timing, non-volatile configuration, and instant-on operation. The MAX 9000 family is built on Altera's third-generation Multiple Array MatriX (MAX) architecture, which uses EEPROM-based configuration cells for non-volatile operation.
Key features of the EPM9480RC208-15N include 480 macro cells organized into logic array blocks, 10,000 usable gates, a 15 ns pin-to-pin propagation delay (speed grade -15), and 117.6 MHz maximum internal frequency. The device provides 5.0 V in-system programmability via the JTAG interface, allowing field upgrades without removing the device from the board. The 208-pin RQFP package offers a high I/O count suitable for bus-intensive designs.
The MAX 9000 architecture uses a programmable interconnect array (PIA) to route signals between logic array blocks, providing predictable timing independent of routing. Each macro cell contains a flip-flop and combinatorial logic, enabling both registered and combinatorial functions. The EEPROM configuration retains the design after power-down, eliminating the need for external configuration memory.
Typical applications include glue logic consolidation, bus interface bridging, address decoding, state machine implementation, and legacy system maintenance. The 5.0 V operation makes it compatible with older TTL and CMOS logic families, simplifying integration into existing 5 V designs.
When designing with this device, ensure the JTAG chain is properly terminated and that the ISP programming voltage is stable. The 208-pin RQFP package requires careful PCB layout to manage signal integrity on high-speed buses.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, providing engineers with a single reference for evaluation and sourcing.
Drop-in alternatives for EPM9480RC208-15N — 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 EPM9480RC208-15N (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Usable Gates, Architecture, Macro Cells, Speed Grade.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
EPM9480RC208-15
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$24.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM9560RC208-15
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View Datasheet →EPM9320RC208-15N
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View Datasheet →EPM9320RC208-15
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View Datasheet →EPM9560RC208-15N
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$19.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →EPM9480RC208-15N Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | MAX 9000 |
| Device Type | CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) |
| Usable Gates | 10,000 |
| Macro Cells | 480 |
| Maximum Frequency | 117.6 MHz |
| Propagation Delay | 15 ns (speed grade -15) |
| Supply Voltage | 5.0 V |
| Package | 208-pin RQFP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Configuration Memory | EEPROM (non-volatile) |
| In-System Programmability | Yes (ISP via JTAG) |
| JTAG Interface | IEEE Std. 1149.1 |
| RoHS Status | ROHS3 Compliant |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level | MSL 3 (168 Hours) |
| Manufacturer Standard Lead Time | 1-7 Days |
| Architecture | Multiple Array MatriX (MAX) third-generation |
EPM9480RC208-15N 208-pin rqfp Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for EPM9480RC208-15N (208-pin rqfp 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 EPM9480RC208-15N.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
EPM9480RC208-15N is suitable for 6 applications: Glue Logic Consolidation, Bus Interface Bridging, Address Decoding and Chip Select Logic, State Machine Implementation, Legacy System Maintenance, Industrial Control Systems.
Glue Logic Consolidation
The EPM9480RC208-15N consolidates multiple discrete 74-series logic ICs into a single 208-pin RQFP device, reducing board space and component count. With 480 macro cells and 10,000 usable gates, it can implement complex combinatorial and sequential functions that would otherwise require dozens of separate logic packages. The 15 ns propagation delay provides deterministic timing for critical glue logic paths, while the 5.0 V supply ensures direct compatibility with legacy TTL and CMOS logic levels. Designers typically use the EEPROM-based non-volatile configuration to eliminate external configuration memory, simplifying board design. The device's in-system programmability via JTAG allows logic updates without removing the part from the board, which is valuable for field upgrades and prototyping iterations.
Recommended
Bus Interface Bridging
The EPM9480RC208-15N is well-suited for bus interface bridging between different bus protocols and widths, thanks to its 480 macro cells and high I/O count in the 208-pin RQFP package. It can implement address decoding, data width conversion, and protocol translation between legacy 5 V buses and modern peripherals. The 117.6 MHz maximum frequency supports high-throughput bus operations, while the programmable interconnect array ensures predictable timing independent of routing. The 5.0 V operation matches traditional bus voltage levels, avoiding level-shifter complexity. Engineers often use the device to bridge ISA, VME, or custom backplane buses to peripheral devices, leveraging the non-volatile EEPROM configuration for instant-on operation after power-up.
Recommended
Address Decoding and Chip Select Logic
The EPM9480RC208-15N implements address decoding and chip-select generation for microprocessor and microcontroller systems. Its 480 macro cells can decode wide address buses and generate multiple chip-select signals with programmable polarity and timing. The 15 ns propagation delay ensures fast address decode, minimizing wait states in memory and peripheral access. The 5.0 V supply directly interfaces with legacy processors, and the EEPROM configuration retains the decode logic after power-down. Designers appreciate the deterministic timing of the MAX 9000 architecture, which avoids the routing-dependent delays found in FPGA-based solutions. The 208-pin RQFP package provides ample I/O for decoding large address spaces and controlling multiple peripherals simultaneously.
Recommended
State Machine Implementation
The EPM9480RC208-15N is ideal for implementing complex state machines in hardware, offering 480 macro cells with dedicated flip-flops for registered state transitions. The 117.6 MHz maximum frequency supports high-speed state machine operation, while the 15 ns propagation delay ensures fast combinatorial next-state logic. The MAX 9000 architecture's programmable interconnect array provides predictable timing, which is critical for state machines with tight timing constraints. The 5.0 V supply and EEPROM non-volatile configuration make the device suitable for industrial control applications where instant-on operation is required. Engineers use the device for sequence controllers, protocol engines, and custom arbitration logic, benefiting from the deterministic timing and in-system reprogrammability via JTAG.
Recommended
Legacy System Maintenance
The EPM9480RC208-15N serves as a critical replacement part for legacy systems built around the MAX 9000 family. Many industrial, telecommunications, and military systems still rely on these 5.0 V CPLDs, and the EPM9480RC208-15N provides a drop-in replacement for existing designs. Its 208-pin RQFP package and 480 macro cells match the original footprint and logic capacity, allowing field replacement without board redesign. The EEPROM-based configuration preserves the original design after power-down, and the JTAG interface supports in-system reprogramming if needed. Since the part is obsolete, engineers should stock spare units and consider migrating to newer CPLD families for new designs, but the EPM9480RC208-15N remains essential for maintaining existing equipment.
Recommended
Industrial Control Systems
The EPM9480RC208-15N is used in industrial control systems for implementing custom digital logic, I/O expansion, and protocol handling. Its 5.0 V operation matches industrial logic levels, and the 208-pin RQFP package provides high I/O count for interfacing with sensors, actuators, and communication interfaces. The 480 macro cells can implement multiple control loops, PWM generators, and communication protocol engines simultaneously. The EEPROM non-volatile configuration ensures the control logic is retained after power cycles, which is essential for industrial equipment that must resume operation immediately after power restoration. The 117.6 MHz maximum frequency supports fast control loop updates, and the JTAG interface allows firmware updates in the field without removing the device from the control board.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for EPM9480RC208-15N — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | EPM9480RC208-15 | EPM9560RC208-15 | EPM9320RC208-15N | EPM9320RC208-15 | EPM9560RC208-15N |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 208-pin RQFP | 208-pin RQFP - same | 208-pin RQFP - same | 208-pin RQFP - same | 208-pin RQFP - same | 208-pin RQFP - same |
| Brand | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera | Altera |
| Macro Cells | 480 | 480 | 560 | 320 | 320 | 560 |
| Usable Gates | 10,000 | 10,000 | 12,000 | 6,000 | 6,000 | 12,000 |
| Maximum Frequency | 117.6 MHz | 117.6 MHz | 117.6 MHz | 117.6 MHz | 117.6 MHz | 117.6 MHz |
| Propagation Delay | 15 ns | 15 ns | 15 ns | 15 ns | 15 ns | 15 ns |
| Supply Voltage | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V | 5.0 V |
Key Differentiators
- Lead-free RoHS3 compliant variant (vs EPM9480RC208-15)
- Higher logic density than EPM9320 (vs EPM9320RC208-15N)
- Lower cost than EPM9560 for moderate logic needs (vs EPM9560RC208-15)
Design Notes
The EPM9480RC208-15N requires a stable 5.0 V supply. Place a 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor close to each VCC pin and a 10 uF bulk capacitor near the device. The MAX 9000 family draws significant current during operation, so ensure the power supply can deliver the required current with adequate margin. Estimated: at 117.6 MHz operation, dynamic power dissipation depends on the number of switching nodes; use the Altera power calculator for accurate estimates.
The 208-pin RQFP package requires careful PCB layout with fine-pitch traces. Use a minimum of 4-layer PCB with dedicated power and ground planes. Route high-speed signals with controlled impedance and keep trace lengths matched for bus signals. Place the JTAG connector close to the device to minimize programming signal degradation. Ensure the exposed thermal pad is soldered to a ground plane with thermal vias for heat dissipation.
Since the EPM9480RC208-15N is an obsolete part, verify availability before committing to production. Do not confuse the 'N' suffix variant with the non-'N' version - they are functionally identical but differ in lead-free/RoHS status. When using JTAG programming, ensure the TCK signal is properly terminated and that the programming voltage is stable. The EEPROM configuration has limited reprogramming cycles; avoid excessive reconfiguration during development.
Compliance Information
ROHS3 compliant per distributor data (fpgalink.com). MSL 3 (168 Hours). Not AEC-Q100 qualified.