Re: Small PLD choices

Dan writes -
>

>We have been using Max EPM3032 and EPM3064 devices for several of our 
>designs.
>
>The features I like with these devices is as follows:
>
>1. Very Cheap - $1.30 for 3032 devices in small quantities
>2. Easy tools with 74 style schematic capture entry.
>3. 3.3V operation with 5V tolerant I/O
>
>The MAX 3000 is also a power hog which is the main reason I am searching 
>for alternatives.
>
>I looked at the Xilinx CoolRunner and CoolRunner 2 parts. Here were my 
>impressions based from their web site. I would appreciate comments.
>
>CoolRunner:
>
>1. Although they have these parts on their web site, they seem to be 
>deemphasised. This suggested to me that maybe this line is on the way 
>out.
>
>2. I like the 3.3V supply with the 5V tolerance.
>
>3. Power is lower than Altera, prices are higher.
>
>CoolRunner 2:
>
>1. Xilinx wants to sell these parts. 
>2. They use 1.8V supplies which is just about the only supply I don't 
>already need in my design.
>3. They are not 5V tolerant which may or may not be important (but often 
>is)
>4. They cost more than Altera Max 3000 or CoolRunner.
>
>Are the tools as easy as Altera? What's a good In-Circuit-Programmer?
>Are there gotchas? 
>
>What other players or parts should I consider?
>
>1. I want schematic entry, reasonably small size in QFP, low power and 
>low cost.
>
>
>-- 
>Al Clark
>Danville Signal Processing, Inc.
>--------------------------------------------------------------------
>Purveyors of Fine DSP Hardware and other Cool Stuff
>Available at http://www.danvillesignal.com
>
you might want to also consider Lattice Mach4000 family - the 4KZ is the lowest
power device family available anywhere presently - tools are free from the web,
cost is "competitive" - I know, I had to say it tho!
Schematic, ABEL, VHDL,VERILOG all in the free tool.
Device is offered with 3.3v supply, 2.5v supply, or 1.8v supply.  I/O is 5v
tolerant with no external components required.
Give your local Lattice rep or FAE a call -
Michael Thomas
LSC SFAE
New York/New Jersey
631-874-4968 fax 631-874-4977
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
for the latest info on Lattice products - http://www.latticesemi.com
LATTICE - BRINGING THE BEST TOGETHER