EPM9400RC208-15 CPLD: Features, Applications, Programming, and Replacement

You can use the epm9400rc208-15 cpld when you need a strong and fast part for digital designs. The epm9400rc208-15 is from Altera's MAX 9000 family. It gives you 8,000 usable gates and 400 macrocells. It also has a quick 10 ns delay. This complex programmable logic device uses CMOS technology. It lets you program it while it is in the system. Many engineers pick the epm9400rc208-15 because it works well in projects that need to save power. It also helps build flexible communication networks. You might see the epm9400rc208-15 in classrooms too. It helps beginners learn about digital logic.

Key Takeaways

• The EPM9400RC208-15 CPLD has 8,000 usable gates and 400 macrocells. This makes it good for hard digital designs.

• In-system programmability lets you update the device on the board. You do not need to take it out. This saves time and work when you build things.

• Power-saving mode can cut energy use by more than half. This helps your projects stay cool and work well.

• This CPLD works for many uses. It can be used in industrial controls, consumer electronics, and communication systems.

• When you pick a replacement, look at logic capacity, I/O pin count, package type, speed, and voltage. This helps make sure it fits your project.

EPM9400RC208-15 CPLD Features

Main Capabilities

The epm9400rc208-15 has many helpful features for digital design. These features help you make systems that work fast and do not break easily. The device uses CMOS EEPROM technology. This means you can program it and your design stays safe even if you turn off the power. You can also program the epm9400rc208-15 while it is already on your board. This makes it simple to update or change your design.

Here is a table that shows the main features you get with the epm9400rc208-15:

Feature	Description
High-performance	CMOS EEPROM-based programmable logic built on MAX architecture
In-system programmability	5.0-V ISP through built-in JTAG interface
JTAG compliance	Built-in JTAG boundary-scan test circuitry (IEEE Std.1149.1-1990)
High-density	Usable gates ranging from 6,000 to 12,000
Logic delays	10-ns pin-to-pin logic delays, counter frequencies up to 144 MHz
PCI compliance	Meets PCI Local Bus Specification, Revision 2.2
Dual-output macrocell	Lets you use combinatorial and registered logic independently
FastTrack Interconnect	Fast, predictable interconnect delays
Programmable output	Slew-rate control to reduce switching noise
MultiVolt I/O	Works with both 3.3-V and 5.0-V devices
Configurable expander	Up to 32 product terms per macrocell
Power-saving mode	Over 50% power reduction in each macrocell

These features make the epm9400rc208-15 a smart pick for lots of projects. The high density and quick logic delays help you do hard jobs. In-system programmability saves you time when you build your project. You can use this device in systems that must follow PCI rules.

Tip: If you want to use less power, turn on the power-saving mode for each macrocell. This helps your project stay cool and last longer.

Unique Attributes

The epm9400rc208-15 is special because of its unique attributes. It has 400 macrocells and 8,000 usable gates. There are 139 I/O pins, so you can connect many other devices. The device lets you program it while it is still on your board. You do not need to take it out to make updates.

Here is a quick look at what makes the epm9400rc208-15 special:

Attribute	Value
Programmable Type	In System Programmable
Number of Macrocells	400
Number of Logic Elements/Blocks	25
Number of I/O Pins	139
Number of Gates	8000

You can see how the epm9400rc208-15 compares in the chart below:

The high number of macrocells and I/O pins gives you lots of choices. You can use this device in big and tricky designs. In-system programmability lets you change things fast. The epm9400rc208-15 cpld helps you build modern digital systems.

If you want a device that is fast, has lots of space, and is easy to program, the epm9400rc208-15 is a great choice. You can use it in many projects, like industrial controls or electronics for people to use at home.

EPM9400RC208-15 Technical Specs

Package and Pin Count

You will find the epm9400rc208-15 in a large RC208 package. This package uses a rectangular shape and has 208 pins. You can use these pins to connect many signals and devices. The device gives you 139 I/O pins. These pins help you link the CPLD to sensors, displays, or other chips. The RC208 package works well for big projects that need lots of connections. If you want to build a complex system, this package gives you the space you need.

Note: The RC208 package is a plastic quad flat pack. It helps keep your board layout simple and neat.

Logic and Performance

The epm9400rc208-15 gives you strong logic power. You get 400 macrocells and up to 8,000 usable gates. This means you can design large digital circuits with many functions. The device runs fast. You can reach a maximum operating frequency of 144 MHz. The delay time from input to output can be as low as 10 ns, but the maximum delay time is 15 ns. This speed helps you process signals quickly and keep your system running smoothly.

Here is a quick look at the main performance numbers:

Specification	Value
Maximum Operating Frequency	144 MHz
Delay Time (tpd) Max	15.0 ns

You can use the epm9400rc208-15 for tasks that need fast response, like signal processing or real-time control. The high speed and large logic size make it a good choice for many digital projects.

Power and Technology

The epm9400rc208-15 uses CMOS EEPROM technology. This technology lets you program the device and keep your design safe even when you turn off the power. You can also program the device while it is on your board. The device works with both 3.3V and 5.0V systems. This makes it easy to use in many types of projects. The power-saving mode helps you lower energy use. Your system can run cooler and last longer.

If you want a CPLD that is easy to program, uses less power, and works with many voltages, the epm9400rc208-15 is a smart pick.

EPM9400RC208-15 Applications

You can use the epm9400rc208-15 in lots of projects. Its features make it a good pick for things that need to be fast and flexible. The device has high density and quick logic. This means you can build hard systems with it. Let’s see how people use the epm9400rc208-15 in real life.

Industrial Uses

Factories and machines need to work fast and well. The epm9400rc208-15 helps control machines and read signals quickly. You can use it for things like digital signal processing or motor control. It also works for checking sensors. The device has in-system programmability and many I/O pins. This lets you connect to lots of other devices. You can change your design without taking the chip out. This saves time and makes your job easier.

Tip: Turn on power-saving mode in factories. This keeps your system cool and working well.

Consumer Electronics

The epm9400rc208-15 is in many home electronics. You might find it in smart TVs, game consoles, or home devices. Its features help you handle signals from buttons or screens. It also works with wireless modules. You can use it to connect to digital devices and move data fast. The high density lets you put more functions in a small space. This makes your products smarter and better.

Communication Systems

Communication systems need to be fast and strong. The epm9400rc208-15 can move data quickly and do hard logic jobs. You can use it in network switches, routers, or wireless stations. It has PCI compliance and multi-volt I/O. These features help you link to different system parts. The device’s speed and density help it handle lots of data at once.

Here is a table that shows some common uses and helpful features:

Application Area	Useful Features
Industrial Control	Fast logic, many I/O pins
Consumer Electronics	High density, small footprint
Communication	PCI compliance, fast speed

You can see the epm9400rc208-15 cpld works in many areas. Its features help you fix hard design problems. If you need a cpld for signal processing, control, or connecting devices, this one is a great choice.

CPLD Programming

Tools and Interfaces

You can use different tools with the epm9400rc208-15. These tools help you use the in-system programmability. You do not have to take the chip off your board to make changes. Here are some tools and interfaces you might use:

• JTAG-compatible programmer, like Altera’s USB-Blaster

• Quartus software for design and programming

• Built-in JTAG interface on the epm9400rc208-15

These tools let you connect to the device and use its special features. You can change your design or fix problems quickly. This makes programming easier and saves time.

Tip: Always make sure your programmer and software work with your epm9400rc208-15. This helps you stop mistakes when you program.

Programming Steps

You can program the epm9400rc208-15 cpld by following easy steps. The in-system programmability lets you update it while it stays on your board. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Enter ISP Mode. This gets the epm9400rc208-15 ready for programming.

2. Verify Device Identity. Make sure you are using the right device.

3. Bulk Erase. Remove the old data from the device.

4. Program Data. Put your new design into the epm9400rc208-15.

5. Verify Contents. Check that the device has the right data.

6. Exit ISP Mode. Finish programming and let the device work as normal.

You can do these steps again if you want to change your design. The in-system programmability saves you time and work. You do not have to take out the device or use special tools. This programming works for new projects and for updates.

Note: The in-system programmability of the epm9400rc208-15 makes it simple to keep your designs current.

EPM9400RC208-15 Replacement

If you need to replace the epm9400rc208-15, you have many choices. Some devices have more logic or run faster. Others come in different packages. You can pick another part from the MAX 9000 family. You can also look at other cpld models that fit your needs. Let’s see what you can choose.

MAX 9000 Family Alternatives

The MAX 9000 family gives you lots of options. You can pick a device with more or fewer macrocells. Some have different numbers of I/O pins. Some run at new speed grades. Here is a table to help you compare:

Specification	EPM9400RC208-15	EPM9320	EPM9480	EPM9560
Manufacturer	Altera (Intel)	Altera (Intel)	Altera (Intel)	Altera (Intel)
Family	MAX 9000	MAX 9000	MAX 9000	MAX 9000
Logic Capacity (Macrocells)	400	320	480	560
Equivalent Gates	~8,000	~6,000	~10,000	~12,000
Logic Array Blocks (LABs)	25	20	30	35
I/O Pins (max, package dependent)	139 (in 208-pin RQFP)	~96–120	~160	~184
Speed Grades	–10, –15, –20	–10, –15, –20	–10, –15, –20	–10, –15, –20
Operating Voltage	5.0 V core, 3.3 V / 5.0 V I/O	5.0 V core, 3.3 V / 5.0 V I/O	5.0 V core, 3.3 V / 5.0 V I/O	5.0 V core, 3.3 V / 5.0 V I/O

The EPM9480 and EPM9560 have more logic and I/O pins. These are good for bigger projects or if you want to grow your design.

Other CPLD Options

You can look at other cpld models if you want a new package or speed. Here are some choices:

• EPM9560ARC208-10: This model works well and is flexible. You can use it in telecom, factories, or embedded systems.

• EPM9400RC240-15: This device is good for medium logic designs. It has lots of I/O pins and fits a 240-pin package.

• EPM9400RC208-20: This option is small and neat. It has about the same logic but is a little slower.

Here is a table to help you compare:

CPLD Model	Usable Gates	Macrocells	Package Type	Delay	Voltage	Notes
EPM9560ARC208-10	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	Strong performance, flexibility, in-system programmability, suitable for various applications.
EPM9400RC240-15	~8,000	400	240-pin RQFP	~15 ns	5 V	Good for mid-size logic designs needing many I/Os and moderate speed.
EPM9400RC208-20	~8,000	400	208-pin RQFP	~20 ns	5 V	Compact layout, similar logic capacity, tolerates slightly slower speed.

Selection Considerations

When you pick a replacement for the epm9400rc208-15 cpld, think about your project. Here are some things to check:

• Logic capacity: Make sure the new part has enough macrocells and gates.

• I/O pins: Count how many connections you need.

• Package type: Pick a package that fits your board.

• Speed: Check the delay and frequency for your needs.

• Voltage: Match the voltage with your system.

• Programming: Make sure your tools work with the new device.

Tip: Always check your project and programming needs before you choose a replacement. This helps you avoid problems and keeps your project working well.

You can find a good replacement by looking at these points. The right choice helps you build fast, flexible, and strong projects.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Benefits

When you use the epm9400rc208-15, you get many good things. This device turns on right away. You do not have to wait for it to start. It keeps your design safe even if you turn off the power. The timing is always steady and reliable. This helps when timing is very important. The epm9400rc208-15 uses less power. Your system stays cool and does not waste energy. The design process is easy. You can finish your work faster. For projects with medium logic needs, this device saves money.

Here is a table that shows the main benefits:

Advantage	Description
Instant-on with nonvolatile configuration	Device powers up fast and keeps your design safe
Predictable and consistent timing	Good for jobs needing steady timing
Lower static power consumption	Saves energy and keeps things cool
Simple design flow with faster development	Makes your project easier and quicker to finish
Cost-effective for moderate logic tasks	Saves money for many digital designs

You can use the epm9400rc208-15 in lots of places. These features help you build systems that work well and last long.

Limitations

There are some things the epm9400rc208-15 cannot do. It has a set amount of logic. This means it may not work for very big or hard designs. It does not have built-in RAM, DSP blocks, or fast I/O. The top speed is lower than newer FPGAs. You cannot change parts of the device while it is running. It is now old, so it can be hard to find.

Here are some common limitations:

• Logic size is limited and cannot grow

• Not as fast as new FPGAs

• No built-in RAM, DSP, or fast I/O

• Old device, so hard to buy

• Cannot change or update parts while running

Before you pick the epm9400rc208-15, think about these limits. If you need more features, you may need a different device.

The epm9400rc208-15 has many good features. It works fast and lets you change how it works. You can use it in lots of things, like machines or smart gadgets. You can update it easily with in-system programming. If you want to use a different device, think about what your project needs. Make sure you can get the part for a long time. Remember these tips:

• Pick a way to program that fits your budget and how often you need updates.

• Choose a device that will work for new uses and follows rules for the industry.

• Find options that help with new ideas, like using clean energy.

 

 

 

 

 

Written by Jack Elliott from AIChipLink.

 

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