3–2
Chapter 3: Serial Configuration Devices (EPCS1, EPCS4, EPCS16, EPCS64, and EPCS128) Data Sheet
Functional Description
Functional Description
With SRAM-based devices that support active serial configuration, configuration data
must be reloaded each time the device powers up, the system reconfigures, or when
new configuration data is required. Serial configuration devices are flash memory
devices with a serial interface that can store configuration data for FPGA devices that
support active serial configuration and reload the data to the device upon power-up
or reconfiguration.
summarizes the features of the Altera configuration
devices and the amount of configuration space they hold.
Table 3–1.
Altera Configuration Devices
Memory Size
(bits)
1,048,576
4,194,304
16,777,216
67,108,864
134,217,728
On-Chip
Decompression
Support
No
No
No
No
No
ISP
Support
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Cascading
Support
No
No
No
No
No
Operating
Voltage (V)
3.3
3.3
3.3
3.3
3.3
Device
EPCS1
EPCS4
EPCS16
EPCS64
EPCS128
Reprogrammable
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Notes to
(1) To program these devices using Altera Programming Unit or Master Programming Unit, refer to
(2) The EPCS device can be re-programmed in system with Byte Blaster II download cable or an external microprocessor using SRunner. For more
information about SRunner, refer to the
For an 8-pin SOIC package, you can migrate vertically from the EPCS1 to the EPCS4
or EPCS16 because the EPCS devices are offered in the same device package.
Similarly, for a 16-pin SOIC package, you can migrate vertically from the EPCS16 to
the EPCS64 or EPCS128.
Use the compression ratio calculation to determine the FPGA device to fit the EPCS.
Example 3–1.
Compression Ratio Calculation
EP4SGX530 = 189,000,000 bits
EPCS128 = 134,217,728 bits
Preliminary data indicates that compression typically reduces the configuration
bitstream size by 35% to 55%. We take the worst case that is 35% compression.
189,000,000 bits × 0.65 = 122,850,000 bits
It fits EPCS128 device.
With the new data-decompression feature in Arria series, Cyclone series, and all
device families in the Stratix series except the Stratix device family, you can use
smaller serial configuration devices to configure larger FPGAs.
1
f
Serial configuration devices cannot be cascaded.
For more information about the FPGA decompression feature, refer to the
configuration chapter in the appropriate device handbook.
ALTERA [ ALTERA CORPORATION ]
