ALTERA EPC1441TC32N

Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices
Datasheet
CF52002-3.0
Datasheet
This datasheet describes enhanced configuration (EPC) devices.
Supported Devices
Table 1 lists the supported Altera  EPC devices.
Table 1. Altera EPC Devices
Memory Size
(bits)
On-Chip
Decompression
Support
ISP Support
Cascading
Support
Reprogrammable
Recommended
Operating
Voltage (V)
EPC4
4,194,304
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
3.3
EPC8
8,388,608
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
3.3
EPC16
16,777,216
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
3.3
Device
Features
EPC devices offer the following features:
■
Single-chip configuration solution for Altera ACEX 1K, APEX 20K (including
APEX 20K, APEX 20KC, and APEX 20KE), APEX II, Arria  GX, Cyclone ,
Cyclone II, FLEX 10K (including FLEX 10KE and FLEX 10KA), Mercury ,
Stratix  II, and Stratix II GX devices
■
Contains 4-, 8-, and 16-Mb flash memories for configuration data storage
■
■
Standard flash die and a controller die combined into single stacked chip package
■
External flash interface supports parallel programming of flash and external
processor access to unused portions of memory
■
■
Flash memory block or sector protection capability using the external flash
interface
■
Supported in EPC4 and EPC16 devices
Page mode support for remote and local reconfiguration with up to eight
configurations for the entire system
■
101 Innovation Drive
San Jose, CA 95134
www.altera.com
January 2012
On-chip decompression feature almost doubles the effective configuration
density
Compatible with Stratix series remote system configuration feature
■
Supports byte-wide configuration mode fast passive parallel (FPP) with an 8-bit
data output per DCLK cycle
■
Supports true n-bit concurrent configuration (n = 1, 2, 4, and 8) of Altera FPGAs
© 2012 Altera Corporation. All rights reserved. ALTERA, ARRIA, CYCLONE, HARDCOPY, MAX, MEGACORE, NIOS,
QUARTUS and STRATIX words and logos are trademarks of Altera Corporation and registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark
Office and in other countries. All other words and logos identified as trademarks or service marks are the property of their
respective holders as described at www.altera.com/common/legal.html. Altera warrants performance of its semiconductor
products to current specifications in accordance with Altera's standard warranty, but reserves the right to make changes to any
products and services at any time without notice. Altera assumes no responsibility or liability arising out of the application or use
of any information, product, or service described herein except as expressly agreed to in writing by Altera. Altera customers are
advised to obtain the latest version of device specifications before relying on any published information and before placing orders
for products or services.
ISO
9001:2008
Registered
Altera Corporation
Subscribe
Page 2
Functional Description
■
Pin selectable 2-ms or 100-ms power-on reset (POR) time
■
Configuration clock supports programmable input source and frequency synthesis
■
■
Multiple configuration clock sources supported (internal oscillator and
external clock input pin)
■
External clock source with frequencies up to 100 MHz
■
Internal oscillator defaults to 10 MHz and you can program the internal
oscillator for higher frequencies of 33, 50, and 66 MHz
■
Clock synthesis supported using user programmable divide counter
Available in the 100-pin plastic quad flat pack (PQFP) and the 88-pin Ultra
FineLine BGA (UFBGA) packages
■
Vertical migration between all devices supported in the 100-pin PQFP package
■
Supply voltage of 3.3 V (core and I/O)
■
Hardware compliant with IEEE Std. 1532 in-system programmability (ISP)
specification
■
Supports ISP using Jam Standard Test and Programming Language (STAPL)
■
Supports JTAG boundary scan
■
The nINIT_CONF pin allows private JTAG instruction to start FPGA configuration
■
Internal pull-up resistor on the nINIT_CONF pin always enabled
■
User programmable weak internal pull-up resistors on nCS and OE pins
■
Internal weak pull-up resistors on external flash interface address and control
lines, bus hold on data lines
■
Standby mode with reduced power consumption
f For more information about FPGA configuration schemes and advanced features,
refer to the configuration chapter in the appropriate device handbook.
Functional Description
The Altera EPC device is a single device with high speed and advanced configuration
solution for high-density FPGAs. The core of an EPC device is divided into two major
blocks—a configuration controller and a flash memory. The flash memory is used to
store configuration data for systems made up of one or more than one Altera FPGAs.
Unused portions of the flash memory can be used to store processor code or data that
can be accessed using the external flash interface after the FPGA configuration is
complete.
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Functional Description
Page 3
Table 2 lists the supported EPC devices required to configure an ACEX 1K, APEX 1K,
APEX 20K, APEX 20KC, APEX 20KE, APEX II, Arria GX, Cyclone, Cyclone II,
FLEX 10K, FLEX 10KA, FLEX 10KE, Stratix, Stratix GX, Stratix II, Stratix II GX, or
Mercury device.
Table 2. Supported EPC Devices for Each Device Family (Part 1 of 3)
Device Family
Device
EP1AGX20C
(1)
EPC4
(2)
EPC8
(2)
EPC16
9,640,672
—
—
1
9,640,672
—
—
1
16,951,824
—
—
1
16,951,824
—
—
1
EP1AGX90E
25,699,104
—
—
1
EP1S10
3,534,640
1
1
1
EP1S20
5,904,832
1
1
1
EP1S25
7,894,144
—
1
1
EP1S30
10,379,368
—
1
1
EP1S40
12,389,632
—
1
1
EP1S60
17,543,968
—
—
1
EP1S80
23,834,032
—
—
1
EP1SGX10
3,534,640
1
1
1
EP1SGX25
7,894,144
—
1
1
EP1SGX40
12,389,632
—
1
1
EP2S15
4,721,544
1
1
1
EP2S30
9,640,672
—
1
1
EP2S60
16,951,824
—
—
1
EP2S90
25,699,104
—
—
—
EP2S130
37,325,760
—
—
—
EP2S180
49,814,760
—
—
—
EP2SGX30C
9,640,672
—
—
1
EP2SGX30D
9,640,672
—
—
1
EP2SGX60C
16,951,824
—
—
1
EP2SGX60D
16,951,824
—
—
1
EP2SGX60E
16,951,824
—
—
1
EP1AGX35C
EP1AGX35D
EP1AGX50C
Arria GX
EPC Devices
Data Size (Bits)
EP1AGX50D
(2)
EP1AGX60C
EP1AGX60D
EP1AGX60E
Stratix
Stratix GX
Stratix II
Stratix II GX
January 2012
Altera Corporation
EP2SGX90E
25,699,104
—
—
—
EP2SGX90F
25,699,104
—
—
—
EP2SGX130G
37,325,760
—
—
—
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 4
Functional Description
Table 2. Supported EPC Devices for Each Device Family (Part 2 of 3)
Device Family
Cyclone
Cyclone II
ACEX 1K
APEX 20K
APEX 20KC
APEX 20KE
APEX II
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Device
EPC Devices
Data Size (Bits)
(1)
EPC4
(2)
EPC8
(2)
EPC16
EP1C3
627,376
1
1
1
EP1C4
924,512
1
1
1
EP1C6
1,167,216
1
1
1
EP1C12
2,326,528
1
1
1
EP1C20
3,559,608
1
1
1
EP2C5
1,223,980
1
1
1
EP2C8
1,983,792
1
1
1
EP2C20
3,930,986
1
1
1
EP2C35
7,071,234
—
1
1
EP2C50
9,122,148
—
1
1
EP2C70
10,249,694
—
1
1
EP1K10
159,160
1
1
1
EP1K30
473,720
1
1
1
EP1K50
784,184
1
1
1
EP1K100
1,335,720
1
1
1
EP20K100
993,360
1
1
1
EP20K200
1,950,800
1
1
1
EP20K400
3,880,720
1
1
1
EP20K200C
196,8016
1
1
1
EP20K400C
390,9776
1
1
1
EP20K600C
567,3936
1
1
1
EP20K1000C
8,960,016
—
1
1
EP20K30E
354,832
1
1
1
EP20K60E
648,016
1
1
1
EP20K100E
1,008,016
1
1
1
EP20K160E
1,524,016
1
1
1
EP20K200E
1,968,016
1
1
1
EP20K300E
2,741,616
1
1
1
EP20K400E
3,909,776
1
1
1
EP20K600E
5,673,936
1
1
1
EP20K1000E
8,960,016
—
1
1
EP20K1500E
12,042,256
—
1
1
EP2A15
4,358,512
1
1
1
EP2A25
6,275,200
1
1
1
EP2A40
9,640,528
—
1
1
EP2A70
17,417,088
—
—
1
January 2012
(2)
Altera Corporation
Functional Description
Page 5
Table 2. Supported EPC Devices for Each Device Family (Part 3 of 3)
Device Family
FLEX 10K
FLEX 10KA
FLEX 10KE
Mercury
Device
EPC Devices
Data Size (Bits)
(1)
EPC4
(2)
EPC8
(2)
EPC16
EPF10K10
118,000
1
1
1
EPF10K20
231,000
1
1
1
EPF10K30
376,000
1
1
1
EPF10K40
498,000
1
1
1
EPF10K50
621,000
1
1
1
EPF10K70
892,000
1
1
1
EPF10K100
1,200,000
1
1
1
EPF10K10A
120,000
1
1
1
EPF10K30A
406,000
1
1
1
EPF10K50V
621,000
1
1
1
EPF10K100A
1,200,000
1
1
1
EPF10K130V
1,600,000
1
1
1
EPF10K250A
3,300,000
1
1
1
EPF10K30E
473,720
1
1
1
EPF10K50E
784,184
1
1
1
EPF10K50S
784,184
1
1
1
EPF10K100B
1,200,000
1
1
1
EPF10K100E
1,335,720
1
1
1
EPF10K130E
1,838,360
1
1
1
EPF10K200E
2,756,296
1
1
1
EPF10K200S
2,756,296
1
1
1
EP1M120
1,303,120
1
—
1
EP1M350
4,394,032
1
—
1
(2)
Notes to Table 2:
(1) The Raw Binary File (.rbf) sizes are used to determine the data size for each device.
(2) These values are calculated with the compression feature of the EPC device enabled.
f For more information about EPC devices, refer to the PCN0506: Addition of Intel Flash
Memory As Source for EPC4, EPC8, and EPC16 Enhanced Configuration Devices and Using
the Intel Flash Memory-Based EPC4, EPC8 and EPC16 Devices white paper.
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 6
Functional Description
EPC devices support three different types of flash memory. Table 3 lists the supported
flash memory for all EPC devices.
Table 3. EPC Devices Flash Memory
Flash Memory
Device
Grade
Package
Leaded
EPC4
EPC8
EPC16
Commercial
PQFP 100
Intel
(1)
Lead-Fee
Intel
(1)
or Micron
Intel
(1)
or Micron
Industrial
PQFP 100
Intel
(1)
Commercial/
Industrial
PQFP 100
Intel
(1)
or Sharp
Intel
(1)
Commercial
UBGA 88
Intel
(1)
or Sharp
Intel
(1)
Industrial
UBGA 88
Intel
(1)
or Sharp
Intel
(1)
Military
UBGA 88
Intel
(1)
Intel
(1)
Commercial/
Industrial
PQFP 100
Intel
(1)
Intel
(1)
or Sharp
or Micron
or Sharp
Note to Table 3:
(1) For more information, refer to the PCN0506: Addition of Intel Flash Memory As Source for EPC4, EPC8 and EPC16
Enhanced Configuration Devices.
f The external flash interface feature is supported in EPC4 and EPC16 devices. For more
information about using this feature in the EPC8 device, contact Altera Applications
24/7 Technical Support.
EPC devices have a 3.3-V core and I/O interface. The controller chip is a synchronous
system that implements the various interfaces and features. The controller chip
features three separate interfaces:
■
A configuration interface between the controller and the Altera FPGAs
■
A JTAG interface on the controller that enables ISP of the flash memory
■
An external flash interface that the controller shares with an external processor or
FPGA implementing a Nios embedded processor—an interface available after
ISP and configuration
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Functional Description
Page 7
Figure 1 shows a block diagram of the EPC device.
Figure 1. EPC Device Block Diagram
JTAG/ISP Interface
EPC Device
Shared Flash
Interface
Flash
FPGA
Controller
Shared Flash Interface
The EPC device features multiple configuration schemes. In addition to supporting
the traditional passive serial (PS) configuration scheme for a single device or a
serial-device chain, the EPC device features concurrent configuration and parallel
configuration. With the concurrent configuration scheme, up to eight PS device chains
can be configured simultaneously. In the FPP configuration scheme, 8-bits of data are
clocked into the FPGA during each cycle. These configuration schemes offer
significantly reduced configuration times over traditional schemes.
Furthermore, the EPC device features a dynamic configuration or page mode feature.
This feature allows you to dynamically reconfigure all the FPGAs in your system with
new images stored in the configuration memory. Up to eight different system
configurations or pages can be stored in the memory and selected using the
PGM[2..0] pins. Your system can be dynamically reconfigured by selecting one of the
eight pages and initiating a reconfiguration cycle.
This page mode feature combined with the external flash interface allows remote and
local updates of system configuration data. The EPC devices are compatible with the
remote system configuration feature of the Stratix device.
f For more information, refer to the Remote System Configuration with Stratix &
Stratix GX Devices chapter in the Stratix Device Handbook.
Other user programmable features include:
January 2012
■
Real-time decompression of configuration data
■
Programmable configuration clock (DCLK)
■
Flash ISP
■
Programmable POR delay (PORSEL)
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 8
Functional Description
FPGA Configuration
FPGA configuration is managed by the configuration controller chip. This process
includes reading configuration data from the flash memory, decompressing the
configuration data, transmitting configuration data using the appropriate DATA[]
pins, and handling error conditions.
After POR, the controller determines the user-defined configuration options by
reading its option bits from the flash memory. These options include the configuration
scheme, configuration clock speed, decompression, and configuration page settings.
The option bits are stored at flash address location 0x8000 (word address) and occupy
512-bits or 32-words of memory. These options bits are read using the internal flash
interface and the default 10 MHz internal oscillator.
After obtaining the configuration settings, the configuration controller chip checks if
the FPGA is ready to accept configuration data by monitoring the nSTATUS and
CONF_DONE signals. When the FPGA is ready (nSTATUS is high and CONF_DONE is low),
the controller begins data transfer using the DCLK and DATA[] output pins. The
controller selects the configuration page to be transmitted to the FPGA by sampling
its PGM[2..0] pins after POR or reset.
The function of the configuration unit is to transmit decompressed data to the FPGA,
depending on the configuration scheme. The EPC device supports four concurrent
configuration modes, with n = 1, 2, 4, or 8 (where n is the number of bits that are sent
per DCLK cycle on the DATA[n] signals). The value n = 1 corresponds to the traditional
PS configuration scheme. The values n = 2, 4, and 8 correspond to concurrent
configuration of 2, 4, or 8 different PS configuration chains, respectively. Additionally,
the FPGA can be configured in FPP mode, where eight bits of DATA are clocked into
the FPGA per DCLK cycle. Depending on the configuration bus width (n), the circuit
shifts uncompressed configuration data to the valid DATA[n] pins. Unused DATA[]
pins drive low.
In addition to transmitting configuration data to the FPGAs, the configuration circuit
is also responsible for pausing configuration whenever there is insufficient data
available for transmission. This occurs when the flash read bandwidth is lower than
the configuration write bandwidth. Configuration is paused by stopping the DCLK to
the FPGA, when waiting for data to be read from the flash or for data to be
decompressed. This technique is called “Pausing DCLK”.
The EPC device flash-memories feature a 90-ns access time (approximately 10 MHz).
Hence, the flash read bandwidth is limited to about 160 megabits per second (Mbps)
(16-bit flash data bus, DQ[], at 10 MHz). However, the configuration speeds supported
by Altera FPGAs are much higher and translate to high configuration write
bandwidths. For example, 100-MHz Stratix FPP configuration requires data at the rate
of 800 Mbps (8-bit DATA[] bus at 100 MHz). This is much higher than the 160 Mbps the
flash memory can support and is the limiting factor for configuration time.
Compression increases the effective flash-read bandwidth as the same amount of
configuration data takes up less space in the flash memory after compression. Since
Stratix configuration data compression ratios are approximately two, the effective
read bandwidth doubles to about 320 Mbps.
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Functional Description
Page 9
Finally, the configuration controller also manages errors during configuration. A
CONF_DONE error occurs when the FPGA does not de-assert its CONF_DONE signal within
64 DCLK cycles after the last bit of configuration data is transmitted. When a CONF_DONE
error is detected, the controller pulses the OE line low, which pulls the nSTATUS signal
low and triggers another configuration cycle.
A cyclic redundancy check (CRC) error occurs when the FPGA detects corruption in
the configuration data. This corruption could be a result of noise coupling on the
board such as poor signal integrity on the configuration signals. When this error is
signaled by the FPGA (by driving the nSTATUS signal low), the controller stops
configuration. If the Auto-Restart Configuration After Error option is enabled in the
FPGA, it releases its nSTATUS signal after a reset time-out period and the controller
attempts to reconfigure the FPGA.
After the FPGA configuration process is complete, the controller drives the DCLK pin
low and the DATA[] pins high. Additionally, the controller tri-states its internal
interface to the flash memory, enables the weak internal pull-ups on the flash address
and control lines, and enables bus-keep circuits on flash data lines.
The following sections describe the different configuration schemes supported by the
EPC device—FPP, PS, and concurrent configuration schemes.
f For more information, refer to the configuration chapter in the appropriate device
handbook.
Configuration Signals
Table 4 lists the configuration signal connections between the EPC device and Altera
FPGAs.
Table 4. Configuration Signals
EPC Device Pin
Description
DATA[]
DATA[]
Configuration data transmitted from the EPC device to the
FPGA, which is latched on the rising edge of DCLK.
DCLK
DCLK
EPC device generated clock used by the FPGA to latch
configuration data provided on the DATA[] pins.
nCONFIG
Open-drain output from the EPC device that is used to
start FPGA reconfiguration using the initiate configuration
(INIT_CONF) JTAG instruction. This connection is not
needed if the INIT_CONF JTAG instruction is not needed.
If nINIT_CONF is not connected to nCONFIG, nCONFIG
must be tied to VCC either directly or through a pull-up
resistor.
OE
nSTATUS
Open-drain bidirectional configuration status signal,
which is driven low by either the EPC device or FPGA
during POR and to signal an error during configuration.
Low pulse on OE resets the EPC device controller.
nCS
CONF_DONE
Configuration done output signal driven by the FPGA.
nINIT_CONF,
which
January 2012
Altera FPGA Pin
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 10
Functional Description
Fast Passive Parallel Configuration
Stratix series and APEX II devices can be configured using the EPC device in the FPP
configuration mode. In this mode, the EPC device sends a byte of data on the
DATA[7..0] pins, which connect to the DATA[7..0] input pins of the FPGA, per DCLK
cycle. Stratix series and APEX II FPGAs receive byte-wide configuration data per DCLK
cycle. Figure 2 shows the EPC device in FPP configuration mode. In this figure, the
external flash interface is not used and hence most flash pins are left unconnected
(with the few noted exceptions).
f For more information about configuration interface connections including the pull-up
resistor values, supply voltages, and MSEL pin settings, refer to the configuration
chapter in the appropriate device handbook.
Figure 2. FPP Configuration
EPC Device
VCC (1) VCC (1)
Stratix Series
or
APEX II Device
n
(6)
MSEL
(3)
WE#C
WE#F
RP#C
RP#F
DCLK
A[20..0]
DATA[7..0]
OE (3)
RY/BY#
nCS (3)
CE#
nINIT_CONF (2)
OE#
(3)
DCLK
DATA[7..0]
nSTATUS
CONF_DONE
nCONFIG
(1) VCC
N.C.
nCEO
N.C.
N.C.
N.C.
N.C.
N.C.
DQ[15..0]
nCE
WP#
BYTE# (5)
TM1
GND
TMO
VCC (7)
VCCW
PORSEL
PGM[2..0]
(4)
(4)
EXCLK
(4)
GND
C-A0 (5)
C-A1 (5)
C-A15 (5)
C-A16 (5)
A0-F
A1-F
A15-F
A16-F
Notes to Figure 2:
(1) The VCC should be connected to the same supply voltage as the EPC device.
(2) The nINIT_CONF pin is available on EPC devices and has an internal pull-up resistor that is always active. This means an external pull-up
resistor is not required on the nINIT_CONF or nCONFIG signal. The nINIT_CONF pin does not need to be connected if its functionality is not
used. If nINIT_CONF is not used, nCONFIG must be pulled to VCC either directly or through a resistor.
(3) The EPC devices’ OE and nCS pins have internal programmable pull-up resistors. If internal pull-up resistors are used, external pull-up resistors
should not be used on these pins. The internal pull-up resistors are used by default in the Quartus  II software. To turn off the internal pull-up
resistors, check the Disable nCS and OE pull-ups on configuration device option when generating programming files.
(4) For PORSEL, PGM[], and EXCLK pin connections, refer to Table 10 on page 24.
(5) In the 100-pin PQFP package, you must externally connect the following pins: C-A0 to F-A0, C-A1 to F-A1, C-A15 to F-A15, C-A16 to
F-A16, and BYTE# to VCC . Additionally, you must make the following pin connections in both 100-pin PQFP and 88-pin UFBGA packages: C-RP#
to F-RP#, C-WE# to F-WE#, TM1 to VCC, TM0 to GND, and WP# to VCC .
(6) Connect the FPGA MSEL[] input pins to select the FPP configuration mode. For more information, refer to the configuration chapter in the
appropriate device handbook.
(7) To protect Intel Flash-based EPC devices content, isolate the VCCW supply from VCC . For more information, refer to “Intel Flash-Based EPC Device
Protection” on page 16.
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Functional Description
Page 11
Multiple FPGAs can be configured using a single EPC device in FPP mode. In this
mode, multiple Stratix series FPGAs, APEX II FPGAs, or both, are cascaded together
in a daisy chain.
After the first FPGA completes configuration, its nCEO pin asserts to activate the nCE
pin for the second FPGA, which prompts the second device to start capturing
configuration data. In this setup, the FPGAs CONF_DONE pins are tied together, and
hence all devices initialize and enter user mode simultaneously. If the EPC device or
one of the FPGAs detects an error, configuration stops (and simultaneously restarts)
for the whole chain because the nSTATUS pins are tied together.
1
While Altera FPGAs can be cascaded in a configuration chain, the EPC devices cannot
be cascaded to configure larger devices or chains.
f For more information about configuration schematics and multi-device FPP
configuration, refer to the configuration chapter in the appropriate device handbook.
Passive Serial Configuration
APEX 20KC, APEX 20KE, APEX 20K, APEX II, Cyclone series, FLEX 10K, and Stratix
series devices can be configured using EPC devices in the PS mode. This mode is
similar to the FPP mode, with the exception that only one bit of data (DATA[0]) is
transmitted to the FPGA per DCLK cycle. The remaining DATA[7..1] output pins are
unused in this mode and driven low.
The configuration schematic for PS configuration of a single FPGA or single-serial
chain is identical to the FPP schematic, with the exception that only DATA[0] output
from the EPC device connects to the FPGA DATA0 input pin and the remaining
DATA[7..1] pins are left floating.
f For more information about configuration schematics and multi-device PS
configuration, refer to the configuration chapter in the appropriate device handbook.
Concurrent Configuration
EPC devices support concurrent configuration of multiple FPGAs (or FPGA chains) in
PS mode. Concurrent configuration is when the EPC device simultaneously outputs n
bits of configuration data on the DATA[n-1..0] pins (n = 1, 2, 4, or 8), and each DATA[]
line serially configures a different FPGA chain. The number of concurrent serial
chains is user-defined using the Quartus II software and can be any number from 1 to
8. For example, for three concurrent chains, you can select the 4-bit PS mode and
connect the least significant DATA bits to the FPGAs or FPGA chains. Leave the most
significant DATA bit (DATA[3]) unconnected. Similarly, for 5-, 6-, or 7-bit concurrent
chains you can select the 8-bit PS mode.
f For more information about configuration interface connections including pull-up
resistor values, supply voltages, and MSEL pin settings, refer to the configuration
chapter in the appropriate device handbook.
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 12
Functional Description
Figure 3 shows the schematic for configuring multiple FPGAs concurrently in the PS
mode using an EPC device.
Figure 3. Concurrent Configuration of Multiple FPGAs in PS Mode (n = 8)
VCC (1)
(3)
FPGA0
n
(6)
MSEL
EPC Device
VCC (1)
WE#C
RP#C
DCLK
DATA0
(3)
DCLK
DATA0
nSTATUS
CONF_DONE
nCONFIG
DATA1
nCE
N.C.
nCEO
n
MSEL
DCLK
DATA0
nSTATUS
CONF_DONE
nCONFIG
N.C.
VCCW
DCLK
DATA0
nSTATUS
CONF_DONE
nCONFIG
WP#
BYTE# (5)
TM1
PORSEL
PGM[2..0]
(4)
(4)
EXCLK
(4)
TMO
GND
nCE
N.C.
N.C.
DQ[15..0]
VCC (7)
FPGA7
MSEL
N.C.
OE#
(1)
VCC
nCEO
n
N.C.
CE#
DATA 7
GND
(6)
N.C.
RY/BY#
nINIT_CONF (2)
GND
nCE
N.C.
RP#F
A[20..0]
nCS (3)
FPGA1
(6)
OE (3)
WE#F
nCEO
GND
C-A0 (5)
C-A1 (5)
C-A15 (5)
C-A16 (5)
A0-F
A1-F
A15-F
A16-F
Notes to Figure 3:
(1) Connect VCC to the same supply voltage as the EPC device.
(2) The nINIT_CONF pin is available on EPC devices and has an internal pull-up resistor that is always active. This means an external pull-up
resistor is not required on the nINIT_CONF or nCONFIG signal. The nINIT_CONF pin does not need to be connected if its functionality is not
used. If nINIT_CONF is not used, nCONFIG must be pulled to VCC either directly or through a resistor.
(3) The EPC devices’ OE and nCS pins have internal programmable pull-up resistors. If internal pull-up resistors are used, external pull-up resistors
should not be used on these pins. The internal pull-up resistors are used by default in the Quartus II software. To turn off the internal pull-up
resistors, check the Disable nCS and OE pull-ups on configuration device option when generating programming files.
(4) For PORSEL, PGM[], and EXCLK pin connections, refer to Table 10 on page 24.
(5) In the 100-pin PQFP package, you must externally connect the following pins: C-A0 to F-A0, C-A1 to F-A1, C-A15 to F-A15, C-A16 to F-A16,
and BYTE# to VCC. Additionally, you must make the following pin connections in both 100-pin PQFP and 88-pin UFBGA packages: C-RP# to FRP#, C-WE# to F-WE#, TM1 to VCC , TM0 to GND, and WP# to V CC.
(6) Connect the FPGA MSEL[] input pins to select the PS configuration mode. For more information, refer to the configuration chapter in the
appropriate device handbook.
(7) To protect Intel Flash based EPC devices content, isolate the VCCW supply from VCC . For more information, refer to “Intel Flash-Based EPC Device
Protection” on page 16.
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Functional Description
Page 13
Table 5 lists the concurrent PS configuration modes supported in the EPC device.
Table 5. EPC Devices in PS Mode
Mode Name
Mode (n =)
(1)
Used Outputs
Unused Outputs
PS mode
1
DATA0
DATA[7..1] drive low
Multi-device PS mode
2
DATA[1..0]
DATA[7..2] drive low
Multi-device PS mode
4
DATA[3..0]
DATA[7..4] drive low
Multi-device PS mode
8
DATA[7..0]
—
Note to Table 5:
(1) This is the number of valid DATA outputs for each configuration mode.
f For more information about configuration schematics and concurrent configurations,
refer to the configuration chapter in the appropriate device handbook.
External Flash Interface
The EPC devices support external FPGA or processor access to its flash memory. The
unused portions of the flash memory can be used by the external device to store code
or data. This interface can also be used in systems that implement remote
configuration capabilities. Configuration data within a particular configuration page
can be updated using the external flash interface and the system could be
reconfigured with the new FPGA image. This interface is also useful to store Nios
boot code, application code, or both.
f For more information about the Stratix remote configuration feature, refer to the
Remote System Configuration with Stratix & Stratix GX Devices chapter in the Stratix
Device Handbook.
The address, data, and control ports of the flash memory are internally connected to
the EPC device controller and external device pins. An external source can drive these
external device pins to access the flash memory when the flash interface is available.
This external flash interface is a shared bus interface with the configuration controller
chip. The configuration controller is the primary bus master. Since there is no bus
arbitration support, the external device can only access the flash interface when the
controller has tri-stated its internal interface to the flash. Simultaneous access by the
controller and the external device will cause contention, and result in configuration
and programming failures.
Since the internal flash interface is directly connected to the external flash interface
pins, controller flash access cycles will toggle the external flash interface pins. The
external device must be able to tri-state its flash interface during these operations and
ignore transitions on the flash interface pins.
1
January 2012
The external flash interface signals cannot be shared between multiple EPC devices
because this causes contention during ISP and configuration. During these operations,
the controller chips inside the EPC devices are actively accessing flash memory.
Therefore, EPC devices do not support shared flash bus interfaces.
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 14
Functional Description
The EPC device controller chip accesses flash memory during:
■
FPGA configuration—reading configuration data from flash
■
JTAG-based flash programming—storing configuration data in flash
■
At POR—reading option bits from flash
During these operations, the external FPGA or processor must tri-state its interface to
the flash memory. After configuration and programming, the EPC device’s controller
tri-states the internal interface and goes into an idle mode. To interrupt a
configuration cycle in order to access the flash using the external flash interface, the
external device can hold the FPGA’s nCONFIG input low. This keeps the configuration
device in reset by holding the nSTATUS-OE line low, allowing external flash access.
f For more information about the software support for the external flash interface
feature, refer to the Altera Enhanced Configuration Devices.
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Functional Description
Page 15
Figure 4 shows an FPP configuration schematic with the external flash interface in
use.
Figure 4. FPP Configuration with External Flash Interface (1)
VCC
EPC Device
VCC
Stratix Series
or
APEX II Device
n
MSEL
N.C.
PLD or Processor
WE#C
WE#F
RP#C
RP#F
DCLK
DATA[7..0] A[20..0] (2)
OE
RY/BY# (5)
nCS
CE#
nINIT_CONF
OE#
DCLK
DATA[7..0]
nSTATUS
CONF_DONE
nCONFIG
nCEO
WE#
RP#
A[20..0]
RY/BY#
CE#
OE#
DQ[15..0]
nCE
DQ[15..0]
VCC
VCC(6)
WP#
BYTE# (3)
TM1
GND
TMO
VCCW
PORSEL
PGM[2..0]
(4)
(4)
EXCLK
(4)
GND
C-A0 (3)
C-A1 (3)
C-A15 (3)
C-A16 (3)
A0-F
A1-F
A15-F
A16-F
Notes to Figure 4:
(1) For external flash interface support in the EPC8 device, contact Altera Applications 24/7 Technical Support.
(2) Pin A20 in EPC16 devices, pins A20 and A19 in EPC8 devices, and pins A20, A19, and A18 in EPC4 devices should be left floating. These pins
should not be connected to any signal as they are NC pins.
(3) In the 100-pin PQFP package, you must externally connect the following pins: C-A0 to F-A0, C-A1 to F-A1, C-A15 to F-A15, C-A16 to
F-A16, and BYTE# to VCC . Additionally, you must make the following pin connections in both 100-pin PQFP and 88-pin UFBGA packages: C-RP#
to F-RP#, C-WE# to F-WE#, TM1 to VCC, TM0 to GND, and WP# to VCC .
(4) For PORSEL, PGM[], and EXCLK pin connections, refer to Table 10 on page 24.
(5) RY/BY# pin is only available for Sharp flash-based EPC8 and EPC16 devices.
(6) To protect Intel Flash based EPC devices content, isolate the VCCW supply from VCC . For more information, refer to “Intel Flash-Based EPC Device
Protection” on page 16.
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 16
Functional Description
Intel Flash-Based EPC Device Protection
In the absence of the lock bit protection feature in the EPC4, EPC8, and EPC16 devices
with Intel flash, Altera recommends four methods to protect the Intel Flash content in
EPC4, EPC8, and EPC16 devices. Any method alone is sufficient to protect the flash.
The methods are listed here in the order of descending protection level:
1. Using an RP# of less than 0.3 V on power-up and power-down for a minimum of
100 ns to a maximum 25 ms disables all control pins, making it impossible for a
write to occur.
2. Using VPP < VPPLK , where the maximum value of VPPLK is 1 V, disables writes.
VPP < VPPLK means programming or writes cannot occur. VPP is a programming
supply voltage input pin on the Intel flash. VPP is equivalent to the VCCW pin on
EPC devices.
3. Using a high CE# disables the chip. The requirement for a write is a low CE# and
low WE#. A high CE# by itself prevents writes from occurring.
4. Using a high WE# prevent writes because a write only occurs when the WE# is low.
Performing all four methods simultaneously is the safest protection for the flash
content.
The following lists the ideal power-up sequence:
1. Power up VCC.
2. Maintain VPP < VPPLK until VCC is fully powered up.
3. Power up VPP .
4. Drive RP# low during the entire power-up process. RP# must be released high
within 25 ms after VPP is powered up.
1
CE# and WE# must be high for the entire power-up sequence.
The following lists the ideal power-down sequence:
1. Drive RP# low for 100 ns before power-down.
2. Power down VPP < VPPLK.
3. Power down VCC .
4. Drive RP# low during the entire power-down process.
1
CE# and WE# must be high for the entire power-down sequence.
The RP# pin is not internally connected to the controller. Therefore, an external
loop-back connection between C-RP# and F-RP# must be made on the board even
when you are not using the external device to the RP# pin with the loop-back
connection. Always tri-state RP# when the flash is not in use.
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Functional Description
Page 17
If an external power up monitoring circuit is connected to the RP# pin with the
loop-back connection, use the following guidelines to avoid contention on the RP#
line:
■
The power-up sequence on the 3.3-V supply should complete within 50 ms of
power up. The 3.3-V VCC should reach the minimum VCC before 50 ms and RP#
should then be released.
■
RP# should be driven low by the power-up monitoring circuit during power up.
After power up, RP# should be tri-stated externally by the power-up monitoring
circuit.
If the preceding guidelines cannot be completed within 50 ms, then the OE pin must be
driven low externally until RP# is ready to be released.
Dynamic Configuration (Page Mode)
The dynamic configuration (or page mode) feature allows the EPC device to store up
to eight different sets of designs for all the FPGAs in your system. You can then
choose which page (set of configuration files) the EPC device should use for FPGA
configuration.
Dynamic configuration or the page mode feature enables you to store a minimum of
two pages—a factory default or fail-safe configuration and an application
configuration. The fail-safe configuration page could be programmed during system
production, while the application configuration page could support remote or local
updates. These remote updates could add or enhance system features and
performance. However, with remote update capabilities comes the risk of possible
corruption of configuration data. In the event of such a corruption, the system could
automatically switch to the fail-safe configuration and avoid system downtime.
The EPC device page mode feature works with the Stratix remote system
configuration feature, to enable intelligent remote updates to your systems.
f For more information about remotely updating Stratix FPGAs, refer to the Remote
System Configuration with Stratix & Stratix GX Devices chapter in the Stratix Device
Handbook.
The three PGM[2..0] input pins control which page is used for configuration and these
pins are sampled at the start of each configuration cycle when OE goes high. The page
mode selection allows you to dynamically reconfigure the functionality of your FPGA
by switching the PGM[2..0] pins and asserting nCONFIG. Page 0 is defined as the
default page and the PGM[2] pin is the MSB.
1
The PGM[2..0] input pins must not be left floating on your board. When you are not
using this feature, connect the PGM[2..0] pins to GND to select the default page 000.
The EPC device pages are dynamically-sized regions in memory. The start address
and length of each page is programmed into the option-bit space of the flash memory
during initial programming. All subsequent configuration cycles sample the PGM[]
pins and use the option-bit information to jump to the start of the corresponding
configuration page. Each page must have configuration files for all FPGAs in your
system that are connected to that EPC device.
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 18
Functional Description
For example, if your system requires three configuration pages and includes two
FPGAs, each page will store two SRAM Object Files (.sof) for a total of six .sof in the
configuration device.
Furthermore, all EPC device configuration schemes (PS, FPP, and concurrent PS) are
supported with the page-mode feature. The number of pages, devices, or both, that
can be configured using a single EPC device is only limited by the size of the flash
memory.
f For more information about the page-mode feature implementation and
programming file generation steps using the Quartus II software, refer to the Altera
Enhanced Configuration Devices.
Real-Time Decompression
EPC devices support on-chip real time decompression of configuration data. FPGA
configuration data is compressed by the Quartus II software and stored in the EPC
device. During configuration, the decompression engine inside the EPC device will
decompress or expand configuration data. This feature increases the
effective-configuration density of the EPC device up to 7, 15, or 30 Mb in the EPC4,
EPC8, and EPC16 devices, respectively.
The EPC device also supports a parallel 8-bit data bus to the FPGA to reduce
configuration time. However, in some cases, the FPGA data-transfer time is limited by
the flash-read bandwidth. For example, when configuring an APEX II device in FPP
(byte-wide data per cycle) mode at a configuration speed of 66 MHz, the FPGA write
bandwidth is equal to 8 bits × 66 MHz = 528 Mbps. The flash read interface, however,
is limited to approximately 10 MHz (since the flash access time is ~90 ns). This
translates to a flash-read bandwidth of 16 bits × 10 MHz = 160 Mbps. Hence, the
configuration time is limited by the flash-read time.
When configuration data is compressed, the amount of data that needs to be read out
of the flash is reduced by about 50%. If 16 bits of compressed data yields 30 bits of
uncompressed data, the flash-read bandwidth increases to
30 bits × 10 MHz = 300 Mbps, reducing overall configuration time.
You can enable the controller's decompression feature in the Quartus II software,
Configuration Device Options window by turning on Compression Mode.
1
The decompression feature supported in the EPC devices is different from the
decompression feature supported by the Stratix II FPGAs and the Cyclone series.
When configuring Stratix II FPGAs or the Cyclone series using EPC devices, Altera
recommends enabling decompression in Stratix II FPGAS or the Cyclone series only
for faster configuration.
The compression algorithm used in Altera devices is optimized for FPGA
configuration bitstreams. Since FPGAs have several layers of routing structures (for
high performance and easy routability), large amounts of resources go unused. These
unused routing and logic resources as well as un-initialized memory structures result
in a large number of configuration RAM bits in the disabled state. Altera's proprietary
compression algorithm takes advantage of such bitstream qualities.
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Functional Description
Page 19
The general guideline for effectiveness of compression is the higher the device logic or
routing utilization, the lower the compression ratio (where the compression ratio is
defined as the original bitstream size divided by the compressed bitstream size).
For Stratix designs, based on a suite of designs with varying amounts of logic
utilization, the minimum compression ratio was observed to be 1.9 or a ~47% size
reduction for these designs. Table 6 lists sample compression ratios from a suite of
Stratix designs. These numbers serve as a guideline, not a specification, to help you
allocate sufficient configuration memory to store compressed bitstreams.
Table 6. Stratix Compression Ratios
(1)
Item
Minimum
Average
Logic Utilization
98%
64%
Compression Ratio
1.9
2.3
% Size Reduction
47%
57%
Note to Table 6:
(1) These numbers are preliminary. They are intended to serve as a guideline, not a specification.
Programmable Configuration Clock
The configuration clock (DCLK) speed is user programmable. One of two clock sources
can be used to synthesize the configuration clock; a programmable oscillator or an
external clock input pin (EXCLK). The configuration clock frequency can be further
synthesized using the clock divider circuitry. This clock can be divided by the N
counter to generate your DCLK output. The N divider supports all integer dividers
between 1 and 16, as well as a 1.5 divider and a 2.5 divider. The duty cycle for all clock
divisions other than non-integer divisions is 50% (for the non-integer dividers, the
duty cycle will not be 50%). Figure 5 shows a block diagram of the clock divider unit.
Figure 5. Clock Divider Unit
Configuration Device
Clock Divider Unit
External Clock
(Up to 100 MHz)
10 MHz
33 MHz
50 MHz
66 MHz
Divide
by N
DCLK
Internal Oscillator
The DCLK frequency is limited by the maximum DCLK frequency the FPGA supports.
f For more information about the maximum DCLK input frequency supported by the
FPGA, refer to the configuration chapter in the appropriate device handbook.
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 20
Functional Description
The controller chip features a programmable oscillator that can output four different
frequencies. The various settings generate clock outputs at frequencies as high as 10,
33, 50, and 66 MHz. Table 7 lists the internal oscillator frequencies.
Table 7. Internal Oscillator Frequencies
Frequency Setting
Min (MHz)
Typ (MHz)
Max (MHz)
10
6.4
8.0
10.0
33
21.0
26.5
33.0
50
32.0
40.0
50.0
66
42.0
53.0
66.0
Clock source, oscillator frequency, and clock divider (N) settings can be made in the
Quartus II software, by accessing the Configuration Device Options inside the
Device Settings window or the Convert Programming Files window. The same
window can be used to select between the internal oscillator and the external clock
(EXCLK) input pin as your configuration clock source. The default setting selects the
internal oscillator at the 10 MHz setting as the clock source, with a divide factor of 1.
f For more information about making the configuration clock source, frequency, and
divider settings, refer to the Altera Enhanced Configuration Devices.
Flash In-System Programming (ISP)
The flash memory inside EPC devices can be programmed in-system using the JTAG
interface and the external flash interface. JTAG-based programming is facilitated by
the configuration controller in the EPC device. External flash interface programming
requires an external processor or FPGA to control the flash.
1
The EPC device flash memory supports 100,000 erase cycles.
JTAG-based Programming
The IEEE Std. 1149.1 JTAG Boundary Scan is implemented in EPC devices to facilitate
the testing of its interconnection and functionality. EPC devices also support the ISP
mode. The EPC device is compliant with the IEEE Std. 1532 draft 2.0 specification.
The JTAG unit of the configuration controller communicates directly with the flash
memory. The controller processes the ISP instructions and performs the necessary
flash operations. EPC devices support the maximum JTAG TCK frequency of 10 MHz.
During JTAG-based ISP, the external flash interface is not available. Before the JTAG
interface programs the flash memory, an optional JTAG instruction (PENDCFG) can be
used to assert the FPGA’s nCONFIG pin (using the nINIT_CONF pin). This will keep the
FPGA in reset and terminate any internal flash access. This function prevents
contention on the flash pins when both JTAG ISP and an external FPGA or processor
try to access the flash simultaneously. The nINIT_CONF pin is released when the initiate
configuration (nINIT_CONF) JTAG instruction is updated. As a result, the FPGA is
configured with the new configuration data stored in flash.
You can add an initiate configuration (nINIT_CONF) JTAG instruction to your
programming file in the Quartus II software by enabling the Initiate configuration
after programming option in the Programmer options window (Options menu).
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Functional Description
Page 21
Programming using External Flash Interface
This method allows parallel programming of the flash memory using the 16-bit data
bus. An external processor or FPGA acts as the flash controller and has access to
programming data using a communication link such as UART, Ethernet, and PCI. In
addition to the program, erase, and verify operations, the external flash interface
supports block or sector protection instructions.
External flash interface programming is only allowed when the configuration
controller has relinquished flash access by tri-stating its internal interface. If the
controller has not relinquished flash access during configuration or JTAG-based ISP,
you must hold the controller in reset before initiating external programming. The
controller can be reset by holding the FPGA nCONFIG line at a logic low level. This
keeps the controller in reset by holding the nSTATUS-OE line low, allowing external
flash access.
1
January 2012
If initial programming of the EPC device is done in-system using the external flash
interface, the controller must be kept in reset by driving the FPGA nCONFIG line low to
prevent contention on the flash interface.
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 22
Pin Description
Pin Description
Table 8 through Table 10 list the EPC device pins. These tables include configuration
interface pins, external flash interface pins, JTAG interface pins, and other pins.
Table 8. Configuration Interface Pins
Pin Name
Pin Type
Description
DATA[7..0]
Output
Configuration data output bus. DATA changes on each falling edge of DCLK . DATA
is latched into the FPGA on the rising edge of DCLK.
DCLK
Output
The DCLK output pin from the EPC device serves as the FPGA configuration clock.
DATA is latched by the FPGA on the rising edge of DCLK.
Input
The nCS pin is an input to the EPC device and is connected to the FPGA’s
CONF_DONE signal for error detection after all configuration data is transmitted to
the FPGA. The FPGA will always drive nCS and OE low when nCONFIG is asserted.
This pin contains a programmable internal weak pull-up resistor of 6 K that can
be disabled or enabled in the Quartus II software through the Disable nCS and
OE pull-ups on configuration device option.
Open-Drain Output
The nINIT_CONF pin can be connected to the nCONFIG pin on the FPGA to
initiate configuration from the EPC device using a private JTAG instruction. This
pin contains an internal weak pull-up resistor of 6K that is always active. The
INIT_CONF pin does not need to be connected if its functionality is not used. If
n INIT_CONF is not used, nCONFIG must be pulled to VCC either directly or
through a pull-up resistor.
Open-Drain
Bidirectional
This pin is driven low when POR is not complete. A user-selectable 2-ms or
100-ms counter holds off the release of OE during initial power up to permit
voltage levels to stabilize. POR time can be extended by externally holding OE low.
OE is connected to the FPGA nSTATUS signal. After the EPC device controller
releases OE, it waits for the nSTATUS-OE line to go high before starting the FPGA
configuration process. This pin contains a programmable internal weak pull-up
resistor of 6 Kthat can be disabled or enabled in the Quartus II software
through the Disable nCS and OE pull-ups on configuration device option.
nCS
nINIT_CONF
OE
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Pin Description
Page 23
Table 9. External Flash Interface Pins (Part 1 of 2)
Pin Name
Pin Type
Description
These pins are the address input to the flash memory for read and write
operations. The addresses are internally latched during a write cycle.
When the external flash interface is not used, leave these pins floating (with a few
exceptions (1) ). These flash address, data, and control pins are internally
connected to the configuration controller.
A[20..0]
Input
In the 100-pin PQFP package, four address pins (A0, A1, A15, A16) are not
internally connected to the controller. These loop-back connections must be made
on the board between the C-A[] and F-A[] pins even when you are not using the
external flash interface. All other address pins are connected internal to the
package.
All address pins are connected internally in the 88-pin UFBGA package.
Pin A20 in EPC16 devices, pins A20 and A19 in EPC8 devices, and pins A20, A19,
and A18 in EPC4 devices are NC pins. These pins should be left floating on the
board.
DQ[15..0]
Bidirectional
This is the flash data bus interface between the flash memory and the controller.
The controller or an external source drives DQ[15..0] during the flash command
and the data write bus cycles. During the data read cycle, the flash memory drives
the DQ[15..0] to the controller or external device.
Leave these pins floating on the board when the external flash interface is not
used.
Input
CE#
Active low flash input pin that activates the flash memory when asserted. When it
is high, it deselects the device and reduces power consumption to standby levels.
This flash input pin is internally connected to the controller.
Leave this pin floating on the board when the external flash interface is not used.
Active low flash input pin that resets the flash when asserted. When high, it
enables normal operation. When low, it inhibits write operation to the flash
memory, which provides data protection during power transitions.
RP#
(1)
Input
This flash input is not internally connected to the controller. Hence, an external
loop-back connection between C-RP# and F-RP# must be made on the board
even when you are not using the external flash interface.
When using the external flash interface, connect the external device to the RP# pin
with the loop back. Always tri-state RP# when the flash is not in use.
Input
OE#
Active-low flash-control input that is asserted by the controller or external device
during flash read cycles. When asserted, it enables the drivers of the flash output
pins.
Leave this pin floating on the board when the external flash interface is not used.
Active-low flash-write strobe asserted by the controller or external device during
flash write cycles. When asserted, it controls writes to the flash memory. In the
flash memory, addresses and data are latched on the rising edge of the WE# pulse.
WE#
(1)
Input
This flash input is not internally connected to the controller. Hence, an external
loop-back connection between C-WE# and F-WE# must be made on the board
even when you are not using the external flash interface.
When using the external flash interface, connect the external device to the WE# pin
with the loop back.
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 24
Pin Description
Table 9. External Flash Interface Pins (Part 2 of 2)
Pin Name
Pin Type
Description
Usually tied to VCC or GND on the board. The controller does not drive this pin
because it could cause contention.
WP#
Input
Connection to VCC is recommended for faster block erase or programming times
and to allow programming of the flash-bottom boot block, which is required when
programming the device using the Quartus II software.
This pin should be connected to VCC even when the external flash interface is not
used.
Block erase, full-chip erase, word write, or lock-bit configuration power supply.
VCCW
RY/BY#
Supply
Open-Drain Output
Connect this pin to the 3.3-V VCC supply, even when you are not using the external
flash interface.
Flash asserts this pin when a write or erase operation is complete. This pin is not
connected to the controller. RY/BY# is only available in Sharp flash-based EPC8
and EPC16. (2)
Leave this pin floating when the external flash interface is not used.
Flash byte-enable pin and is only available for EPC devices in the 100-pin PQFP
package.
BYTE#
Input
This pin must be connected to VCC on the board even when you are not using the
external flash interface (the controller uses the flash in 16-bit mode). For Intel
flash-based EPC device, this pin is connected to the VCCQ of the Intel flash die
internally. Therefore, BYTE# must be connected directly to VCC without using any
pull-up resistor.
Notes to Table 9:
(1) These pins can be driven to 12 V during production testing of the flash memory. Since the controller cannot tolerate the 12-V level, connections
from the controller to these pins are not made internal to the package. Instead they are available as two separate pins. You must connect the
two pins at the board level (for example, on the PCB, connect the C-WE# pin from controller to F-WE# pin from the flash memory).
(2) For more information, refer to the PCN0506: Addition of Intel Flash Memory As Source For EPC4, EPC8 and EPC16 Enhanced Configuration
Devices and Using the Intel Flash Memory-Based EPC4, EPC8 and EPC16 white paper.
Table 10. JTAG Interface Pins and Other Required Controller Pins (Part 1 of 2)
Pin Name
Pin Type
TDI
Input
TDO
Output
TCK
Input
TMS
Input
Description
JTAG data input pin.
Connect this pin to VCC if the JTAG circuitry is not used.
JTAG data output pin.
Do not connect this pin if the JTAG circuitry is not used (leave this pin floating).
JTAG clock pin.
Connect this pin to GND if the JTAG circuitry is not used.
JTAG mode select pin.
Connect this pin to VCC if the JTAG circuitry is not used.
These three input pins select one of the eight pages of configuration data to
configure the FPGAs in the system.
PGM[2..0]
Input
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Connect these pins on the board to select the page specified in the Quartus II
software when generating the EPC device POF. PGM[2] is the MSB. The default
selection is page 0; PGM[2..0]=000. These pins must not be left floating.
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Power-On Reset
Page 25
Table 10. JTAG Interface Pins and Other Required Controller Pins (Part 2 of 2)
Pin Name
Pin Type
Description
Optional external clock input pin that can be used to generate the configuration
clock (DCLK).
Input
EXCLK
Input
PORSEL
When an external clock source is not used, connect this pin to a valid logic level
(high or low) to prevent a floating-input buffer. If EXCLK is used, toggling the
EXCLK input pin after the FPGA enters user mode will not effect the EPC device
operation.
This pin selects a 2-ms or 100-ms POR counter delay during power up. When
PORSEL is low, POR time is 100 ms. When PORSEL is high, POR time is 2 ms.
This pin must be connected to a valid logic level.
TM0
Input
For normal operation, this test pin must be connected to GND.
TM1
Input
For normal operation, this test pin must be connected to VCC.
Power-On Reset
The POR circuit keeps the system in reset until power-supply voltage levels have
stabilized. The POR time consists of the VCC ramp time and a user-programmable
POR delay counter. When the supply is stable and the POR counter expires, the POR
circuit releases the OE pin. The POR time can be further extended by an external
device by driving the OE pin low.
1
Do not execute JTAG or ISP instructions until POR is complete.
The EPC device supports a programmable POR delay setting. You can set the POR
delay to the default 100-ms setting or reduce the POR delay to 2 ms for systems that
require fast power-up. The PORSEL input pin controls this POR delay—a logic-high
level selects the 2-ms delay, while a logic-low level selects the 100-ms delay.
The EPC device enters reset under the following conditions:
January 2012
■
The POR reset starts at initial power-up during VCC ramp-up or if VCC drops
below the minimum operating condition anytime after VCC has stabilized
■
The FPGA initiates reconfiguration by driving nSTATUS low, which occurs if the
FPGA detects a CRC error or if the FPGA’s nCONFIG input pin is asserted
■
The controller detects a configuration error and asserts OE to begin reconfiguration
of the Altera FPGA (for example, when CONF_DONE stays low after all configuration
data has been transmitted)
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 26
Power Sequencing
Power Sequencing
Altera requires that you power-up the FPGA's VCCINT supply before the EPC device's
POR expires.
Power up needs to be controlled so that the EPC device’s OE signal goes high after the
CONF_DONE signal is pulled low. If the EPC device exits POR before the FPGA is
powered up, the CONF_DONE signal will be high because the pull-up resistor is holding
this signal high. When the EPC device exits POR, OE is released and pulled high by a
pull-up resistor. Since the EPC device samples the nCS signal on the rising edge of OE,
it detects a high level on CONF_DONE and enters an idle mode. DATA and DCLK outputs
will not toggle in this state and configuration will not begin. The EPC device will only
exit this mode if it is powered down and then powered up correctly.
1
To ensure the EPC device enters configuration mode properly, you must ensure that
the FPGA completes power-up before the EPC device exits POR.
The pin-selectable POR time feature is useful for ensuring this power-up sequence.
The EPC device has two POR settings—2 ms when PORSEL is set to a high level and
100 ms when PORSEL is set to a low level. For more margin, the 100-ms setting can be
selected to allow the FPGA to power-up before configuration is attempted.
Alternatively, a power-monitoring circuit or a power-good signal can be used to keep
the FPGA’s nCONFIG pin asserted low until both supplies have stabilized. This ensures
the correct power up sequence for successful configuration.
Programming and Configuration File Support
The Quartus II software provides programming support for the EPC device and
automatically generates the .pof for the EPC4, EPC8, and EPC16 devices. In a
multi-device project, the Quartus II software can combine the .sof for multiple
ACEX 1K, APEX 20K, APEX II, Cyclone series, FLEX 10K, Mercury, and Stratix series
FPGAs into one programming file for the EPC device.
f For more information about generating programming files, refer to the Altera
Enhanced Configuration Devices.
EPC devices can be programmed in-system through the industry-standard 4-pin
JTAG interface. The ISP feature in the EPC device provides ease in prototyping and
updating FPGA functionality.
After programming an EPC device in-system, FPGA configuration can be initiated by
including the EPC device’s JTAG INIT_CONF instruction (refer to Table 11).
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Programming and Configuration File Support
Page 27
The ISP circuitry in the EPC device is compliant with the IEEE Std. 1532 specification.
The IEEE Std. 1532 is a standard that allows concurrent ISP between devices from
multiple vendors.
Table 11. JTAG Instructions for EPC Devices
JTAG Instruction
(1)
OPCODE
Description
SAMPLE/
PRELOAD
00 0101 0101
Allows a snapshot of the state of the EPC device pins to be captured and
examined during normal device operation and permits an initial data pattern
output at the device pins.
EXTEST
00 0000 0000
Allows the external circuitry and board-level interconnections to be tested by
forcing a test pattern at the output pins and capturing results at the input pins.
BYPASS
11 1111 1111
Places the 1-bit bypass register between the TDI and TDO pins, which allow the
BST data to pass synchronously through a selected device to adjacent devices
during normal device operation.
IDCODE
00 0101 1001
Selects the device IDCODE register and places it between TDI and TDO, allowing
the device IDCODE to be serially shifted out to TDO. The device IDCODE for all
EPC devices is the same and shown below:
0100A0DDh
USERCODE
INIT_CONF
PENDCFG
00 0111 1001
Selects the USERCODE register and places it between TDI and TDO, allowing the
USERCODE to be serially shifted out the TDO. The 32-bit USERCODE is a
programmable user-defined pattern.
00 0110 0001
This function initiates the FPGA reconfiguration process by pulsing the
nINIT_CONF pin low, which is connected to the FPGA nCONFIG pin. After this
instruction is updated, the nINIT_CONF pin is pulsed low when the JTAG state
machine enters Run-Test/Idle state. The nINIT_CONF pin is then released
and nCONFIG is pulled high by the resistor after the JTAG state machine goes out
of Run-Test/Idle state. The FPGA configuration starts after nCONFIG goes
high. As a result, the FPGA is configured with the new configuration data stored
in flash using ISP. This function can be added to your programming file (.pof,
.jam, and .jbc) in the Quartus II software by enabling the Initiate configuration
after programming option in the Programmer options window (Options menu).
00 0110 0101
This optional function can be used to hold the nINIT_CONF pin low during
JTAG-based ISP of the EPC device. This feature is useful when the external flash
interface is controlled by an external FPGA or processor. This function prevents
contention on the flash pins when both the controller and external device try to
access the flash simultaneously. Before the EPC device’s controller can access
the flash memory, the external FPGA/processor needs to tri-state its interface to
flash.This can be ensured by resetting the FPGA using the nINIT_CONF, which
drives the nCONFIG pin and keeps the external FPGA or processor in the “reset”
state. The nINIT_CONF pin is released when the initiate configuration
(INIT_CONF) JTAG instruction is issued.
Note to Table 11:
(1) Instruction register length for the EPC device is 10 and boundary scan length is 174.
f For more information about the EPC device JTAG support, refer to the Configuration
Devices BSDL Files page.
EPC devices can also be programmed by third-party flash programmers or on-board
processors using the external flash interface. Programming files (.pof) can be
converted to a Hexadecimal (Intel-Format) File (.hexout) using the Quartus II Convert
Programming Files utility, for use with the programmers or processors.
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 28
IEEE Std. 1149.1 (JTAG) Boundary-Scan
You can also program the EPC devices using the Quartus II software, the Altera
Programming Unit (APU), and the appropriate configuration device programming
adapter. Table 12 lists which programming adapter to use with each EPC device.
Table 12. Programming Adapters
Device
Package
Adapter
88-pin UFBGA
PLMUEPC-88
100-pin PQFP
PLMQEPC-100
EPC8
100-pin PQFP
PLMQEPC-100
EPC4
100-pin PQFP
PLMQEPC-100
EPC16
IEEE Std. 1149.1 (JTAG) Boundary-Scan
The EPC device provides JTAG BST circuitry that complies with the IEEE Std.
1149.1-1990 specification. JTAG BST can be performed before or after configuration,
but not during configuration.
Figure 6 shows the timing requirements for the JTAG signals.
Figure 6. JTAG Timing Waveforms
TMS
TDI
tJCP
tJCH
tJCL
tJPSU
tJPH
TCK
t JPZX
tJPXZ
tJPCO
TDO
tJSSU
Signal
to be
Captured
tJSH
tJSZX
tJSCO
tJSXZ
Signal
to be
Driven
Table 13 lists the timing parameters and values for the EPC device.
Table 13. JTAG Timing Parameters and Values (Part 1 of 2)
Symbol
Parameter
Min
Max
Unit
tJCP
TCK clock period
100
—
ns
tJCH
TCK clock high time
50
—
ns
tJCL
TCK clock low time
50
—
ns
tJPSU
JTAG port setup time
20
—
ns
tJPH
JTAG port hold time
45
—
ns
tJPCO
JTAG port clock output
—
25
ns
tJPZX
JTAG port high impedance to valid output
—
25
ns
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Timing Information
Page 29
Table 13. JTAG Timing Parameters and Values (Part 2 of 2)
Symbol
Parameter
Min
Max
Unit
tJPXZ
JTAG port valid output to high impedance
—
25
ns
tJSSU
Capture register setup time
20
—
ns
tJSH
Capture register hold time
45
—
ns
tJSCO
Update register clock to output
—
25
ns
tJSZX
Update register high-impedance to valid output
—
25
ns
tJSXZ
Update register valid output to high impedance
—
25
ns
Timing Information
Figure 7 shows the configuration timing waveform when you are using an EPC
device.
Figure 7. Configuration Timing Waveform Using an EPC Device
nINIT_CONF or VCC/nCONFIG
tPOR
OE/nSTATUS
nCS/CONF_DONE
DCLK
tDSU
tCL
Byte0
Byte1
tCH
tDH
tOEZX
DATA[7..0]
Byte2 Byte3
(2)
Byten
tCO
Tri-State
User I/O
User Mode
Tri-State
INIT_DONE
Notes to Figure 7:
(1) The EPC device drives DCLK low after configuration.
(2) The EPC device drives DATA[] high after configuration.
Table 14 lists the timing parameters when you are using the EPC devices.
Table 14. EPC Device Configuration Parameters (Part 1 of 2)
Symbol
Parameter
Condition
Min
Typ
Max
Unit
40% duty cycle
—
—
66.7
MHz
—
15
—
—
ns
fDCLK
DCLK frequency
tDCLK
DCLK period
tHC
DCLK duty cycle high time
40% duty cycle
6
—
—
ns
tLC
DCLK duty cycle low time
40% duty cycle
6
—
—
ns
tCE
OE to first DCLK delay
—
40
—
—
ns
tOE
OE to first DATA available
—
40
—
—
ns
—
—
ns
DCLK rising edge to DATA change
—
(1)
tCF
(2)
OE assert to DCLK disable delay
—
277
—
—
ns
tDF
(2)
OE assert to DATA disable delay
—
277
—
—
ns
tRE
(3)
DCLK rising edge to OE
—
60
—
—
ns
tLOE
OE assert time to assure reset
—
60
—
—
ns
fECLK
EXCLK input frequency
40% duty cycle
—
—
100
MHz
tOH
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 30
Timing Information
Table 14. EPC Device Configuration Parameters (Part 2 of 2)
Symbol
Parameter
Condition
Min
Typ
Max
Unit
—
10
—
—
ns
tECLK
EXCLK input period
tECLKH
EXCLK input duty cycle high time
40% duty cycle
4
—
—
ns
tECLKL
EXCLK input duty cycle low time
40% duty cycle
4
—
—
ns
tECLKR
EXCLK input rise time
100 MHz
—
—
3
ns
tECLKF
EXCLK input fall time
100 MHz
—
—
3
ns
2 ms
1
2
3
ms
100 ms
70
100
120
ms
tPOR
(4)
POR time
Notes to Table 14:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
To calculate tOH, use the following equation: t OH = 0.5 (DCLK period) - 2.5 ns.
This parameter is used for CRC error detection by the FPGA.
This parameter is used for CONF_DONE error detection by the EPC device.
The FPGA V CCINT ramp time should be less than 1 ms for 2-ms POR and it should be less than 70 ms for 100-ms POR.
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Operating Conditions
Page 31
Operating Conditions
Table 15 through Table 19 list information about absolute maximum ratings,
recommended operating conditions, DC operating conditions, supply current values,
and pin capacitance data for the EPC devices.
Table 15. Absolute Maximum Rating for EPC Devices
Symbol
Parameter
Condition
Min
Max
Unit
VCC
Supply voltage
With respect to ground
-0.2
4.6
V
VI
DC input voltage
With respect to ground
-0.5
3.6
V
IMAX
DC VCC or ground current
—
—
100
mA
IOUT
DC output current, per pin
—
-25
25
mA
PD
Power dissipation
—
—
360
mW
TSTG
Storage temperature
No bias
-65
150
C
TAMB
Ambient temperature
Under bias
-65
135
C
TJ
Junction temperature
Under bias
—
135
C
Condition
Min
Max
Unit
—
3.0
3.6
V
With respect to ground
–0.3
VCC + 0.3
V
Table 16. Recommended Operating Conditions for EPC Devices
Symbol
Parameter
VCC
Supplies voltage for 3.3-V operation
VI
Input voltage
VO
Output voltage
Operating temperature
TA
—
0
VCC
V
For commercial use
0
70
C
For industrial use
–40
85
C
use (1)
–55
125
C
For military
TR
Input rise time
—
—
20
ns
TF
Input fall time
—
—
20
ns
Note to Table 16:
(1) Applicable for UBGA88 package of the EPC16 device only.
Table 17. DC Operating Conditions for EPC Devices
Symbol
Parameter
Condition
Min
Typ
Max
Unit
VCC
Supplies voltage to core
—
3.0
3.3
3.6
V
VIH
High-level input voltage
—
2.0
—
VCC + 0.3
V
VIL
Low-level input voltage
—
—
—
0.8
V
I OH = –4 mA
2.4
—
—
V
3.3-V mode high-level CMOS
output voltage
IOH = –0.1 mA
VCC – 0.2
—
—
V
Low-level output voltage TTL
IOL = –4 mA DC
—
—
0.45
V
Low-level output voltage CMOS
I OL = –0.1 mA DC
—
—
0.2
V
II
Input leakage current
VI = VCC or ground
–10
—
10
A
IOZ
Tri-state output off-state current
VO = VCC or ground
–10
—
10
A
VOH
VOL
January 2012
3.3-V mode high-level TTL output
voltage
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 32
Package
Table 18. I CC Supply Current Values for EPC Devices
Symbol
Parameter
Condition
Min
Typ
Max
Unit
ICC0
Current (standby)
—
—
50
150
A
ICC1
VCC supply current (during
configuration)
—
—
60
90
mA
ICCW
VCCW supply current
—
—
(1)
(1)
—
Note to Table 18:
(1) For the VCCW supply current information, refer to the appropriate flash memory data sheet at www.altera.com.
Table 19. Capacitance for EPC Devices
Symbol
Parameter
Condition
Min
Max
Unit
CIN
Input pin capacitance
—
—
10
pF
COUT
Output pin capacitance
—
—
10
pF
Package
The EPC16 device is available in both the 88-pin UFBGA package and the 100-pin
PQFP package. The UFBGA package, which is based on 0.8-mm ball pitch, maximizes
board space efficiency. A board can be laid out for this package using a single PCB
layer. The EPC8 and EPC4 devices are available in the 100-pin PQFP package.
EPC devices support vertical migration in the 100-pin PQFP package.
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Package
Page 33
Figure 8 shows the PCB routing for the 88-pin UFBGA package. The Gerber file for
this layout is on the Altera website.
Figure 8. PCB Routing for 88-Pin UFBGA Package (1)
NC
VCC
A20
A11
A15
A14
A13
A12
GND
DCLK
DATA7
NC
OE
C-WE#
A16
A8
A10
A9
DQ15
PGM0
DQ14
DQ7
DATA5
DATA6
F-WE#
RY/BY#
nINIT
CONF
PGM1
DQ13
DQ6
DQ4
DQ5
DATA4
TM1
VCC
DQ12
C-RP#
VCC
VCC
DATA3
(2)
TCK
TDI
TDO
(2)
(4)
GND
F-RP#
(5)
(2)
WP#
(2)
VCCW
A19
DQ11
VCC
DQ10
DQ2
DQ3
DATA2
(3)
TMS
NC
NC
PGM2
PORSEL
DQ9
DQ8
DQ0
DQ1
DATA1
VCC
nCS
A18
A17
A7
A6
A3
A2
A1
VCC
GND
DATA0
NC
GND
EXCLK
A5
A4
A0
CE#
GND
OE#
TM0
GND
NC
Notes to Figure 8:
(1) If the external flash interface feature is not used, then the flash pins should be left unconnected because they are internally connected to the
controller unit. The only pins that need external connections are WP#, WE#, and RP#. If the flash is being used as an external memory source,
then the flash pins should be connected as outlined in the pin descriptions section.
(2) F-RP# and F-WE# are pins on the flash die. C-RP# and C-WE# are pins on the controller die. C-WE# and F-WE# should be connected together
on the PCB. F-RP# and C-RP# should also be connected together on the PCB.
(3) WP# (write protection pin) should be connected to a high level (3.3 V) to be able to program the flash bottom boot block, which is required when
programming the device using the Quartus II software.
(4) RY/BY# is only available in Sharp flash-based EPC devices.
(5) Pin D3 is a NC pin for Intel Flash-based EPC16.
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 34
Package
Package Layout Recommendation
Sharp flash-based EPC16 and EPC8 devices in the 100-pin PQFP packages have
different package dimensions than other Altera 100-pin PQFP devices (including the
Micron flash-based EPC4 and Intel flash-based EPC16, EPC8, and EPC4). Figure 9
shows the 100-pin PQFP PCB footprint specifications for EPC devices that allows
vertical migration between all devices. These footprint dimensions are based on
vendor-supplied package outline diagrams.
Figure 9. EPC Device PCB Footprint Specifications for 100-Pin PQFP Packages (1),
(2)
0.65-mm Pad Pitch
0.325 mm
19.3 mm
0.410 mm
25.3 mm
2.4 mm
0.5
1.5
1.0
2.0 mm
Notes to Figure 9:
(1) Used 0.5-mm increase for front and back of nominal foot length.
(2) Used 0.3-mm increase to maximum foot width.
f For more information about package outline drawings, refer to the Package and
Thermal Resistance page.
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
January 2012
Altera Corporation
Device Pin-Outs
Page 35
Device Pin-Outs
f For more information, refer to the Configuration Devices Pin-Out Files page.
Document Revision History
Table 20 lists the revision history for this document.
Table 20. Document Revision History
Date
Version
Changes
January 2012
3.0
Minor text edits.
June 2011
2.9
Updated Table 1–3 and Table 1–16.
December 2009
October 2008
2.8
2.7
■
Added Table 1–1 and Table 1–2.
■
Updated Table 1–17 and Table 1–18.
■
Removed “Referenced Documents” section.
■
Updated Table 2–1, Table 2–7, and Table 2–8.
■
Updated Figure 2–2, Figure 2–3, and Figure 2–4.
■
Updated “JTAG-based Programming” section.
■
Added “Intel-Flash-Based EPC Device Protection” section.
■
Updated new document format.
May 2008
2.6
Minor textual and style changes. Added “Referenced Documents” section.
February 2008
2.5
Updated Table 2–18 with information about EPC16UI88AA.
May 2007
2.4
Added “Intel-Flash-Based EPC Device Protection” section.
April 2007
2.3
Added document revision history.
October 2005
2.2
Made changes to content.
July 2004
2.0
September 2003
January 2012
Altera Corporation
1.0
■
Added Stratix II and Cyclone II device information throughout chapter.
■
Updated VCCW connection in Figure 2–2, Figure 2–3, and Figure 2–4.
■
Updated (Note 2) of Figure 2–2, Figure 2–3, and Figure 2–4.
■
Updated (Note 4) of Table 2–12.
■
Updated unit of ICC0 in Table 2–16.
■
Added ICCW to Table 2–16.
Initial Release.
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Page 36
Enhanced Configuration (EPC) Devices Datasheet
Document Revision History
January 2012
Altera Corporation