EPM7256ATC144-10: High-Performance CPLD by Altera | 10ns Delay, 256 Macrocells
The EPM7256ATC144-10 is a cutting-edge Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) from Altera (now Intel), engineered for high-speed, low-power embedded systems. Featuring a 10ns propagation delay and 256 macrocells, this 3.3V device delivers exceptional performance for real-time control and signal processing. Its 144-LQFP package (20x20mm) integrates 120 I/O pins, enabling versatile interfacing with peripherals. With 5,000 equivalent gates and in-system programmability (ISP), it supports rapid prototyping and field upgrades. Operating at 0 C to 70 C, it meets rigorous industrial standards while maintaining 3V to 3.6V voltage stability.
Designed for scalability, the EPM7256ATC144-10 offers 16 logic array blocks (LABs) with parallel processing capabilities, optimizing complex state machines and glue logic. Advanced power management reduces dynamic current consumption, making it suitable for battery-powered devices. The JTAG interface allows seamless programming via Quartus II software, streamlining development workflows. Its non-volatile EEPROM technology ensures instant-on operation without external configuration memory.
Key technical specifications include a 100MHz maximum frequency and 5ns pin-to-pin logic delays. The device supports hot-socketing for safe insertion/removal in live circuits. Security features include bitstream encryption to protect intellectual property. With 5V-tolerant I/Os (in 3.3V mode), it simplifies legacy system integration. Altera's MAX 7000 architecture provides deterministic timing crucial for motor control and communication protocols.
Ideal for telecom infrastructure (e.g., line cards, baseband processing), automotive ECUs (CAN bus controllers), and industrial PLCs, this CPLD replaces multiple discrete components. It excels in interface bridging (UART to SPI), pulse-width modulation (PWM), and finite state machine (FSM) designs. The 144-pin TQFP package enables high-density PCB layouts with 0.5mm pitch, while the 10ns speed grade meets PCI timing requirements for legacy support.
Compared to FPGAs, the EPM7256ATC144-10 provides lower latency and zero boot-up time. Its macrocell-based architecture ensures predictable performance for critical control loops. Designers leverage its mix of fast I/Os (3.3V LVTTL/LVCMOS) and flexible clocking (global/local networks). Reference designs include DDR memory controllers and multi-channel data acquisition systems. With 20+ years of field reliability in Altera's MAX 7000 series, it remains a trusted solution for mission-critical applications requiring long-term availability.
