EP2S30F484C5 FPGA: Intel's Discontinued High-Performance Powerhouse

The EP2S30F484C5 represents one of Intel's (formerly Altera) most capable FPGAs from the Stratix II family. Despite being marked as obsolete, this field-programmable gate array remains popular for legacy system maintenance and specialized embedded applications requiring high-speed processing and reconfigurable logic. This in-depth guide covers everything engineers need to know about this versatile semiconductor solution.

Comprehensive Product Overview

Manufacturer and Lineage

• Original Manufacturer: Altera Corporation (acquired by Intel in 2015)
• Current Status: Obsolete (End-of-Life) but still available through authorized distributors
• FPGA Family: Stratix II - Intel's performance-optimized series
• Alternative Options: Cyclone 10 GX, Arria 10 (for newer designs)

Detailed Technical Specifications

Core Architecture

• Logic Elements: 33,880 (8-input LUT-based architecture)
• Adaptive Logic Modules (ALMs): 1,694
• Embedded Memory: 1,369,728 bits (organized in M9K blocks)
• DSP Blocks: 96 (18x18 multipliers)
• Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs): 6

Physical Characteristics

• Package Type: 484-pin FineLine BGA (23x23mm)
• Pin Pitch: 1.0mm
• RoHS Compliance: Yes (lead-free)

Performance Parameters

• Maximum Internal Clock: 500MHz
• I/O Standards Support: LVDS, LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI-X, SSTL, HSTL
• Transceiver Speed: 1Gbps (LVDS channels)

Power Management Features

The EP2S30F484C5 implements Intel's advanced power optimization technology:

• Core Voltage: 1.2V 50mV
• I/O Bank Voltage: 1.5V, 1.8V, 2.5V, or 3.3V (bank-dependent)
• Power Estimation: ~5W typical (application-dependent)
• Thermal Design: JA = 15 C/W (with proper PCB thermal management)

Development Ecosystem

Despite its obsolete status, the EP2S30F484C5 maintains support through:

• Quartus II Web Edition: Final supported version 13.0sp1
• IP Cores: Legacy DSP, memory controllers, and interface IP available
• Third-Party Tools: Mentor Graphics, Synopsys support through older tool versions
• Evaluation Boards: Stratix II GX Development Kit (discontinued but available used)

Common Applications

Current Use Cases

• Military/Aerospace: Legacy avionics systems maintenance
• Telecommunications: Baseband processing in older cellular infrastructure
• Medical Imaging: Ultrasound and MRI equipment servicing
• Industrial Automation: PLC upgrades in manufacturing facilities

Replacement Scenarios

• New Designs: Migrate to Intel Cyclone 10 GX (10CGX220)
• Pin-Compatible Options: Consider EP4SE530 (Stratix IV) with adapter
• Cost-Sensitive Projects: EPC5/10 (Intel MAX 10) for simpler designs

Purchasing Considerations

When sourcing EP2S30F484C5 devices:

• Authenticity Verification: Request original Intel/Altera packaging
• Date Code Analysis: Prefer newer obsolete stock (2015+)
• Supplier Vetting: Choose distributors with anti-counterfeit measures
• Inventory Planning: Consider last-time-buy quantities for long-term needs

Technical Support Resources

While official support has ended, these resources remain valuable:

• Intel Archive Documentation: User manuals and application notes
• FPGA Forums: Engineer communities sharing legacy knowledge
• University Research: Academic papers referencing Stratix II implementations
• Retired Engineer Networks: Experienced professionals offering consultation

Why Choose Our EP2S30F484C5 Solutions?

We specialize in obsolete components with:

• Verified Authenticity: Comprehensive anti-counterfeit testing
• Technical Expertise: 15+ years FPGA experience
• Global Sourcing: Access to remaining NOS (New Old Stock)
• Migration Services: Assistance transitioning to modern alternatives

Conclusion

The EP2S30F484C5 FPGA remains a capable solution for maintaining critical legacy systems across industries. With 33,880 logic elements, robust DSP capabilities, and high-speed I/O, it continues to deliver value where newer alternatives would require costly redesigns. For engineers requiring this specific component, our guaranteed authentic inventory and technical support provide reliable access to this discontinued technology.

Contact us today for EP2S30F484C5 availability, technical specifications, or migration consultation services.