Device Overview
The EPM7256AETI100-7 is a 256-macrocell CPLD in Intel’s (formerly Altera) MAX 7000A family. It is offered in a 100-pin TQFP package (14 mm × 14 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) rated for industrial temperature (–40 °C to +85 °C). Speed grade “–7” yields a typical combinational delay tPD ≈ 7.5 ns and a registered performance up to 125 MHz. EEPROM cells store the configuration, providing instant-on operation and supporting in-system programming (ISP) through the IEEE-1149.1 JTAG port and IEEE-1532 extensions.
Verified Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Macrocells | 256 |
| Logic Array Blocks (LABs) | 16 |
| Max user I/O | 84 |
| Package | 100-TQFP (14 mm) |
| Core / I/O supply | 3.3 V (3.0–3.6 V) core, 5 V-tolerant I/O |
| tpd (typical) | 7.5 ns |
| fMAX (registered) | 125 MHz |
| Configuration memory | EEPROM, ≥ 20-year retention |
| Programming | ISP via JTAG, IEEE-1532 compliant |
| Quiescent current (standby) | ≈ 15 mA typical |
Typical Industrial Applications
- Industrial PLCs: glue logic for sensor aggregation and safety interlocks.
- Telecom line cards: protocol conversion and back-plane signal routing.
- Embedded boards: replacement for multiple 74-series, PAL or small gate-array devices.
- Automotive body controllers: state-machine logic for lighting and HVAC.
- Legacy system maintenance: direct form-fit-function replacement of obsolete logic.
Family Comparison
| Part Number | Macrocells | Max I/O | tpd (ns) | Package | ISP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EPM7064AETC44-10 | 64 | 36 | 10 | 44-TQFP | Yes |
| EPM7128AETC100-10 | 128 | 84 | 10 | 100-TQFP | Yes |
| EPM7256AETI100-7 | 256 | 84 | 7.5 | 100-TQFP | Yes |
In footprint-compatible 100-TQFP, the 7256AE doubles the logic of the 7128AE while reducing propagation delay by 25 %, making it the preferred choice when additional headroom is required without board changes.
Design Advantages & Limitations
Advantages- Field-reprogrammability via JTAG simplifies inventory and post-deployment fixes.
- 5-V-tolerant I/O simplifies interfacing to legacy buses.
- Mature toolchain (Quartus II v13.0sp1 and later) with proven reliability.
• 3.3 V core only; systems with 5 V rails require level shifters.
• Static current (~15 mA) is higher than modern flash-based CPLDs.
• Intel has placed the MAX 7000A family on NRND; long-term supply is through last-time-buy or legacy distributors.
Migration & Replacement Path
- Pin-compatible upgrade: MAX II EPM570T100C5 (100-TQFP, 440-µA standby, 3.3 V/2.5 V core).
- Low-power alternative: Lattice iCE40-1K in 100-TQFP for 1.2 V core designs.
- Performance boost: Cyclone IV EP4CE6E22 in 144-TQFP if FPGA fabric is acceptable.
For existing production runs, the EPM7256AETI100-7 remains the lowest-risk drop-in solution. New designs should evaluate MAX 10 or MAX II families for extended availability.
Procurement & Stock Status
Intel's last-buy date has passed; nevertheless, some distributors are still offering stock. Reel minimum order quantity is usually 90 pieces. For immediate samples or batch cuts, you can contact the supplier using the contact email below.
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