Product Overview

The Altera EPM240T100C5N is a MAX® II family Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) designed for cost-effective programmable logic applications requiring fast startup, non-volatile configuration, low power consumption, and reliable deterministic timing performance. It is based on Altera’s 0.18μm Flash-based CPLD architecture and provides an instant-on solution without requiring external configuration memory.

The EPM240T100C5N integrates 240 Logic Elements (LEs), 192 macrocells, 24 Logic Array Blocks (LABs), and up to 80 user I/O pins in a compact 100-pin TQFP package. It provides a simple and flexible programmable logic platform for replacing discrete logic devices, implementing interface control, and expanding MCU peripheral functions.

The MAX® II architecture integrates non-volatile Flash configuration memory, User Flash Memory (UFM), enhanced In-System Programmability (ISP), and MultiVolt core support. These features allow designers to develop flexible hardware control solutions while reducing external components and overall system complexity.

The EPM240T100C5N is widely used in industrial control systems, embedded hardware expansion, interface bridging, power management logic, communication control, and board-level glue logic applications where predictable timing and instant operation are required.

Part Number Breakdown

EPM240T100C5N

The EPM240T100C5N identifies an Altera MAX® II CPLD featuring 240 Logic Elements, 192 macrocells, 80 user I/O pins, internal Flash configuration memory, and a 100-pin TQFP package.

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Competitive Advantages

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Comparison With Related Altera MAX® II CPLDs

The Altera EPM240T100C5N represents a widely adopted MAX® II CPLD solution, combining instant-on Flash configuration, deterministic timing performance, low power consumption, and flexible I/O control for embedded, industrial, and communication applications.

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Key Features

1. MAX® II Instant-On Non-Volatile CPLD Architecture

The EPM240T100C5N uses MAX® II Flash-based CPLD technology, storing configuration data internally and enabling immediate operation after power-up.

Advantages:

• Instant system startup
• Eliminates external configuration memory
• Improves system reliability
• Reduces PCB component count
• Simplifies hardware design

Typical Applications:

• Industrial controllers
• Embedded control boards
• Power sequencing systems
• System management logic

2. Compact 240 Logic Element Programmable Platform

The device integrates 240 Logic Elements and 192 macrocells, providing flexible programmable resources for implementing custom digital logic.

Advantages:

• Replaces multiple discrete logic ICs
• Supports custom control functions
• Provides deterministic timing performance
• Reduces board complexity
• Enables hardware customization

Typical Applications:

• Glue logic replacement
• Interface controllers
• Peripheral expansion
• Digital control circuits

3. Fast Deterministic Timing Performance

The MAX II architecture provides short propagation delay and predictable timing behavior, making it suitable for timing-sensitive control applications.

Advantages:

• Low system latency
• Stable timing characteristics
• Simplifies timing analysis
• Improves real-time response
• Supports high-speed control logic

Typical Applications:

• Memory interfaces
• Communication control
• Industrial timing systems
• Signal routing logic

4. Integrated User Flash Memory (UFM)

The EPM240T100C5N includes 8 Kbits of User Flash Memory for storing configuration parameters and user data.

Advantages:

• Eliminates external EEPROM requirements
• Stores calibration information
• Supports configuration data storage
• Reduces BOM cost
• Simplifies system architecture

Typical Applications:

• Calibration storage
• Device configuration
• Product identification
• Embedded controllers

5. Enhanced In-System Programmability (ISP)

The device supports IEEE 1532-compliant ISP programming, allowing firmware updates directly on the PCB.

Advantages:

• Simplifies manufacturing
• Enables field updates
• Reduces maintenance cost
• Supports rapid development
• Improves production flexibility

Typical Applications:

• Industrial equipment
• Prototype development
• Production programming
• Embedded system upgrades

6. Flexible MultiVolt I/O Support

The MAX II CPLD supports multiple I/O voltage standards, enabling easy connection with different processors and peripheral devices.

Advantages:

• Supports mixed-voltage designs
• Improves compatibility
• Reduces level-shifting components
• Simplifies system integration
• Enhances design flexibility

Typical Applications:

• MCU interface expansion
• Communication boards
• Industrial control systems
• Legacy system upgrades

7. Low-Power CPLD Operation

The EPM240T100C5N is optimized for low-power programmable logic applications with very low standby current.

Advantages:

• Reduces system power consumption
• Improves thermal performance
• Supports compact designs
• Extends product lifetime
• Suitable for energy-sensitive applications

Typical Applications:

• Portable electronics
• Embedded systems
• Industrial monitoring equipment
• Battery-powered devices

8. Compact 100-Pin TQFP Package

The EPM240T100C5N uses a 100-pin TQFP package, providing a balance between I/O capability and PCB integration.

Advantages:

• Simplifies PCB assembly
• Supports cost-effective manufacturing
• Provides sufficient I/O resources
• Enables compact system designs
• Improves production flexibility

Typical Applications:

• Embedded control boards
• Industrial modules
• Communication interfaces
• Custom logic applications

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Applications

Industrial Control Systems

• PLC expansion logic
• Machine control systems
• Automation equipment
• Power management control
• Industrial monitoring systems

Embedded System Design

• MCU peripheral expansion
• Hardware glue logic
• Interface conversion
• Digital control functions

Communication Equipment

• Protocol bridging
• Interface controllers
• Data routing logic
• Communication management

Consumer Electronics

• Display controllers
• Peripheral management
• Custom digital logic
• Product-specific control functions

Test and Measurement

• Instrument control
• Signal routing
• Timing control
• Data acquisition systems