Intel EPF10K50RI240-4N

EPF10K50RI240-4N FLEX 10K FPGA IC 189 20480 2880 240-BFQFP Exposed Pad

The EPF10K50RI240-4N is a high-density programmable logic device from Intel's (formerly Altera) FLEX 10K® family, representing one of the industry's first embedded programmable logic solutions with integrated memory. This device features 50,000 typical gates, 3,072 logic elements (LEs), and 12 embedded array blocks (EABs) providing 6,144 bits of RAM, making it ideal for complex digital systems requiring both logic and memory integration. Operating at 5V core voltage with 3.3V/5V tolerant I/Os, the EPF10K50RI240-4N supports 240-pin RQFP packaging and delivers 4ns pin-to-pin logic delays, enabling high-performance applications in communications, industrial control, and military systems. Its unique architecture combines look-up table (LUT) based logic with embedded memory blocks, offering flexible implementation of memory functions, FIFOs, and dual-port RAM alongside standard logic operations.

Key Features and Benefits

The EPF10K50RI240-4N distinguishes itself through its innovative Embedded System Block (ESB) architecture, which allows reconfigurable memory implementation ranging from 128×48 to 2,048×3 bits per block. The device features fast continuous operation up to 175MHz and hot-socketing capability, permitting safe insertion/removal without powering down the system. Its JTAG boundary-scan test (IEEE Std. 1149.1) support simplifies board-level testing, while 3.3V/5V multi-voltage I/O interfaces ensure compatibility with mixed-voltage systems. The 4ns internal clock speed and predictable timing characteristics make it particularly valuable for timing-critical applications. Additionally, its in-system programmability (ISP) via the ByteBlaster™ interface enables convenient field upgrades without physical device removal, significantly reducing maintenance costs in deployed systems.

Applications and Use Cases

This programmable logic device finds extensive application in telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in DSLAM equipment, network switches, and protocol converters where its combination of logic density and embedded memory proves invaluable. In industrial automation, it serves in motor control systems, PLCs, and robotics controllers, benefiting from its deterministic timing and reliability. The military/aerospace sector utilizes the EPF10K50RI240-4N in radar systems, avionics, and secure communications equipment, taking advantage of its radiation-hardened variants and stable operation in extreme environments. Consumer electronics applications include high-end video processing, gaming systems, and advanced set-top boxes, where its ability to implement complex state machines and data buffers provides significant design advantages. The device's flexible architecture also supports legacy system upgrades by replacing multiple discrete components with a single programmable solution.

Alternative FPGA solution Models

For design flexibility across different density and performance requirements, consider these alternatives:

● EPF10K30RI240-4N: Lower density (30K gates) with identical packaging, suitable for cost-sensitive applications

● EPF10K100RI240-4N: Higher capacity (100K gates) for more complex designs

● EP1K50QI240-3N: Newer ACEX® 1K series device with 3.3V core and faster 3ns performance

● EPM7256SRI240-10N: CPLD alternative with non-volatile configuration

● XCR3256XL-10TQ144I: Competing Xilinx CoolRunner™ CPLD with lower power consumption