Lattice LC4128ZC-75MN132CU5: A Comprehensive Technical Overview of the CPLD

The Lattice LC4128ZC-75MN132CU5 is a high-performance, low-power Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) from Lattice Semiconductor's ispMACH® 4000ZE family. Engineered for a wide range of general-purpose logic integration applications, this device is particularly favored in consumer electronics, communications infrastructure, industrial control, and automotive systems for its robust feature set and cost-effectiveness.

Architectural Core: The Macrocell Array

At the heart of this CPLD lies a deterministic, fast architecture centered around a Programmable Interconnect Matrix (PIM) that links multiple Logic Blocks. Each block contains 16 Macrocells, providing a total of 128 macrocells. This architecture ensures predictable timing, a critical advantage over FPGAs for glue logic and control plane applications where pin-to-pin delays must be consistent. The macrocells can be configured for registered or combinatorial logic operations, offering designers significant flexibility.

Performance and Timing

The `-75` in its part number signifies a pin-to-pin logic delay of 7.5 ns, enabling high-speed operation essential for bridging timing gaps between larger devices like processors and ASICs. The device supports a maximum operating frequency of over 100 MHz. This speed, combined with its deterministic timing model, allows for the creation of very efficient state machines, address decoders, and bus interfaces.

Low-Power Operation

A defining characteristic of the 4000ZE family is its ultra-low power consumption. Fabricated on an advanced CMOS process, the device features a 1.8V core voltage with 3.3V or 2.5V I/O capability. This makes it an ideal choice for power-sensitive and battery-operated portable devices. The in-system programmable (ISP) circuitry is also designed for low power during programming cycles.

Package and I/O Capabilities

The device is housed in a 132-pin Chip-Scale BGA (cuBGA) package (MN132). This compact package format is crucial for modern, space-constrained PCB designs. It offers 96 user I/O pins, providing ample connectivity for interfacing with other system components. The I/Os are compliant with various standards, including LVCMOS 3.3V/2.5V and LVTTL, and feature bus-friendly architectures with programmable pull-up resistors.

In-System Programmability (ISP) and Design Security

A key feature of this CPLD is its fully integrated ispJTAG interface. This allows for programming and debugging directly on the circuit board using a standard JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) port, significantly simplifying the manufacturing flow and enabling field upgrades. Furthermore, the device includes advanced security features such as programmable security bit protection for the configuration data, preventing unauthorized reading or copying of the design intellectual property.

Design and Development Support

Lattice provides comprehensive support for the ispMACH 4000ZE family through the Lattice Diamond® and ispLEVER® design software. These tools offer integrated design entry, synthesis, place-and-route, and verification, allowing for a seamless development process from concept to programmed device.

ICGOODFIND: The Lattice LC4128ZC-75MN132CU5 stands out as a highly efficient and reliable solution for logic consolidation. Its combination of predictable high-speed performance, remarkably low power consumption, and a compact form factor makes it a superior choice for designers aiming to reduce system cost, size, and complexity without compromising on control or functionality.

Keywords:

1. CPLD

2. Low-Power

3. 128-Macrocell

4. ispJTAG

5. Deterministic Timing