EPM7128AEUC169-10 | Altera CPLD | 128 Macrocells | 5ns Delay | 3.3V EE PLD
The EPM7128AEUC169-10 is a flagship Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) from Altera (now Intel), designed for high-speed digital logic applications. This EE PLD (Electrically Erasable Programmable Logic Device) combines 128 macrocells with a blazing-fast 5ns propagation delay, making it ideal for real-time control systems, communication interfaces, and DSP applications. Operating at 3.3V (3V 3.6V range), it delivers power efficiency without compromising performance. The device features 100 I/O pins in a compact 169-LFBGA package, offering exceptional connectivity for space-constrained designs. With 2,500 equivalent gates and industrial-grade temperature support (0 C to 70 C), it bridges the gap between FPGAs and simple PLDs for mid-range complexity projects.
Engineers favor the EPM7128AEUC169-10 for its non-volatile configuration memory, eliminating external boot devices. The 128 macrocells provide flexible logic implementation, supporting both combinatorial and sequential designs. Key technical highlights include programmable slew rate control for signal integrity, individual output enable per pin, and a global clock network with low skew. The 169-UBGA (11x11) variant ensures reliable surface-mount assembly, while the 5ns pin-to-pin delay enables clock frequencies up to 200MHz. Altera's MAX+PLUS II and Quartus II tools offer seamless development, with JTAG-based in-system programmability (ISP) for field updates.
This CPLD excels in high-reliability applications due to its instant-on operation and immunity to configuration upsets. The architecture features parallel expanders for wide logic functions and shared expanders for efficient resource utilization. Power consumption is optimized through programmable power-saving modes, drawing <50 A in standby. Security features include bitstream encryption and programmable security fuses. The device meets stringent industrial EMC standards, with robust ESD protection on all I/Os. Its deterministic timing model simplifies worst-case analysis for safety-critical systems.
The EPM7128AEUC169-10 finds widespread use across industries. In telecommunications, it handles protocol bridging (UART-to-SPI), line monitoring, and clock domain crossing. Automotive systems employ it for sensor interfacing and CAN bus preprocessing. Industrial applications include PLC ladder logic, motor control PWM generation, and HMI key scanning. Medical devices leverage its reliability for alarm aggregation and safety interlocks. Consumer electronics utilize it for display multiplexing and touch panel scanning. Its 100 I/Os easily interface with ADCs, memory, and legacy TTL devices.
Compared to alternatives like Xilinx XC9500 series, the EPM7128AEUC169-10 offers superior speed-grade options and lower dynamic power. Designers appreciate its mature toolchain and drop-in compatibility with other MAX 7000AE devices. For legacy system upgrades, it provides a cost-effective migration path from older PLDs. The combination of density, performance, and 3.3V operation makes it particularly suitable for battery-powered equipment. With over 20 years of field proven reliability, this CPLD remains a trusted solution for deterministic logic implementations where FPGAs would introduce unnecessary complexity.
