EP2C50F484I8N: A Stable FPGA Solution for Mid-Scale Embedded Systems

1.  Product Overview

The EP2C50F484I8N is a mid-density FPGA from the Cyclone® II family by Altera (now part of Intel), offering 50,000 logic elements, 150 embedded multipliers, and ample on-chip memory. Packaged in a 484-pin FineLine BGA, it is suitable for medium-complexity applications such as industrial control, communication bridging, embedded acceleration, and image processing.

Cyclone II is a mature process platform emphasizing low power, low cost, and ease of use. It is especially suited for embedded scenarios requiring real-time performance and flexible interfaces.

2.  Key Specifications

3.  Design Recommendations

• Pin Management: Use Quartus II Pin Planner to efficiently manage I/O placement and avoid layout constraints.
• Power Domain Planning: Partition power rails by functional modules; reserve voltage margin on critical paths to ensure signal integrity.
• Clock System: Utilize the 4 PLLs for clock synchronization and external jitter filtering.
• Debug Interface: Standard JTAG interface is recommended, with SignalTap® for real-time signal capture.
• Resource Optimization: For large FSMs, FIFOs, or Nios® II logic, enable synthesis-level resource-saving options in Quartus.

4.  Packaging & Development Resources

The EP2C50F484I8N adopts a FineLine BGA package suitable for 4-layer or 6-layer PCB designs, offering a compact footprint and efficient layout. It is supported by the Quartus II design suite and is compatible with the Nios II soft-core platform. ECAD model resources including schematic symbols and PCB footprints are available to support rapid integration in mainstream EDA environments.

5.  Cyclone II Family Selection Reference

The EP2C50F484I8N offers one of the higher resource configurations within the Cyclone® II family, making it suitable for mid-scale logic design tasks. The following table provides a comparative overview of typical models to support design-level decision-making:

Note: Packaging availability may vary by specific part number.

6.  Application Outlook & Use Cases

Although based on an earlier-generation process, the EP2C50F484I8N continues to deliver solid engineering value in the following areas:

• Soft-core embedded platforms (e.g., Nios® II)
• Small-scale control systems requiring custom logic for PCI, RS-422, or SPI bridging
• Legacy system adaptation or hardware-level redesign in support of long-standing platforms
• Additionally, its well-documented resources and moderate logic capacity make it a common choice for instructional and academic use.

As a higher-resource member of the Cyclone® II family, the EP2C50F484I8N is an FPGA that offers a stable process platform, moderate logic capacity, and a compact BGA package. It is well-suited for a variety of medium-complexity applications such as interface bridging, logic control, embedded soft-core processing, and signal buffering. Supported by a mature design ecosystem, including Quartus® II and the Nios® II platform, and backed by WIN SOURCE’s in-stock supply and engineering resources, this device enables engineers to efficiently complete prototyping and product development. For future scalability, its existing architecture also facilitates smooth migration to Cyclone IV/V or Intel’s 10-series platforms.

To explore more component specifications, packaging models, and inventory availability, please visit the official WIN SOURCE website.

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