EP4CE6E22C8N: Intel's High-Performance FPGA for Advanced Embedded Solutions

The EP4CE6E22C8N from Intel represents the cutting edge of Field Programmable Gate Array technology, delivering unparalleled flexibility and processing power for modern electronic designs. As part of Intel's Cyclone IV E family, this FPGA combines high logic density with energy efficiency, making it a top choice for engineers worldwide.

Comprehensive Product Overview

Manufacturer and Availability

• Manufacturer: Intel Corporation (NASDAQ: INTC)
• Series: Cyclone IV E
• Product Status: Active and recommended for new designs
• Lead-Free Status: RoHS compliant

Detailed Technical Specifications

Core Architecture

• Logic Elements: 6,272 (equivalent to ~125K system gates)
• Embedded Memory: 276,480 bits (34.56KB) of M9K memory blocks
• DSP Blocks: 15 18x18 multipliers
• PLLs: 2 phase-locked loops for clock management

Package and Physical Characteristics

• Package Type: 144-pin EQFP (Exposed Quad Flat Package)
• Dimensions: 20mm x 20mm body with 0.5mm pitch
• Mounting: Surface mount (SMT) compatible
• Operating Temperature: Commercial grade (0 C to 85 C junction)

Power and Performance

• Core Voltage: 1.2V nominal (1.15V to 1.25V range)
• I/O Voltage: Supports 1.2V, 1.5V, 1.8V, 2.5V, and 3.3V standards
• Maximum Frequency: >300MHz internal performance
• Power Consumption: <500mW typical for many applications

Advanced Features and Capabilities

Enhanced I/O System

The EP4CE6E22C8N features 91 programmable I/O pins supporting:

• LVCMOS, LVTTL, SSTL, HSTL, and LVDS standards
• Programmable drive strength and slew rate
• On-die termination support
• Hot-socketing capability

Memory Architecture

The FPGA incorporates:

• M9K memory blocks configurable as:
• True dual-port memory
• Simple dual-port memory
• Single-port memory
• ROM
• FIFO buffers
• Error detection circuitry
• Byte enable support

Clock Management

• Two general-purpose PLLs per device
• Clock multiplication/division (1 to 128)
• Programmable phase shift (125ps steps)
• Dynamic reconfiguration capability

Target Applications

Industrial Automation

• Motor control systems
• PLC implementations
• Industrial networking
• Sensor fusion applications

Communications Infrastructure

• Software-defined radio
• Baseband processing
• Protocol bridging
• Network packet processing

Consumer Electronics

• HD video processing
• Display controllers
• Audio processing
• Gaming peripherals

Automotive Systems

• ADAS pre-processing
• In-vehicle networking
• Sensor interfaces
• Display drivers

Development Ecosystem

Design Tools

Intel provides comprehensive support through:

• Quartus Prime Design Software (free web edition available)
• ModelSim-Intel FPGA Edition for simulation
• DSP Builder for signal processing designs
• Nios II Embedded Design Suite

Evaluation Kits

• Cyclone IV E FPGA Starter Kit
• DE0-Nano development board
• Numerous third-party development platforms

IP Cores Available

• Processor systems (Nios II)
• Communication protocols (USB, Ethernet, PCIe)
• Signal processing functions (FFT, FIR filters)
• Memory controllers (DDR, SDRAM, Flash)

Competitive Advantages

Cost-Effective Solution

The EP4CE6E22C8N delivers:

• Lowest system cost through integration
• Reduced board space requirements
• Lower power consumption than competing solutions

Design Security Features

• 128-bit AES encryption for configuration files
• Volatile and non-volatile key storage options
• Tamper protection features

Reliability and Longevity

• 10+ year product longevity commitment
• Industrial temperature options available
• Radiation-tolerant versions for space applications

Purchasing Information

Packaging Options

• Tray packaging (industrial quantities)
• Tube packaging (prototyping quantities)

Sample Availability

• Samples available through Intel authorized distributors
• Evaluation kits stocked globally

Pricing Structure

• Volume pricing available
• Educational discounts for universities
• Long-term supply agreements for OEMs

Conclusion

The EP4CE6E22C8N FPGA stands as a versatile, high-performance solution for today's most demanding embedded applications. With its balanced combination of logic density, memory resources, and I/O flexibility, this Intel FPGA enables designers to create innovative solutions across multiple industries. The comprehensive development ecosystem and long-term availability make it an ideal choice for both prototyping and production deployments.

For engineers seeking a reliable, cost-effective FPGA solution with room for design evolution, the EP4CE6E22C8N represents an outstanding choice in its class. Its combination of features, performance, and Intel's support infrastructure creates a compelling value proposition for embedded system designers worldwide.