Could you provide documentation on how your devices are marked (EPM3512AQC208 & EPM3512AQI208)? This will help us mitigate counterfeit components. In addition, is there any change Intel could fabricate these devices again?

[MCaso1]

We use EPM3512AQI208 & EPM3512AQC208 in our products. These were discontinued earlier this year with the last time buy date of February 2018. One of our approved brokers found some parts but the marking is suspicious as it lists both commercial and industrial part numbers EPM3512AQC208 & EPM3512AQI208. Included is a picture showing the suspicious marking. Since answers to these questions are time sensitive a prompt response is much appreciated.

[Abe]

Check the following link for ordering information on MAX devices. It contains the part number formats details:

https://www.intel.com/content/dam/altera-www/global/en_US/pdfs/literature/hb/max2/max2_mii51006.pdf

Max V:

https://www.intel.com/content/dam/altera-www/global/en_US/pdfs/literature/hb/max-v/mv51001.pdf

Max 10:

https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/programmable/documentation/myt1396938463674.html#myt1396949701969

[Nooraini_Y_Intel]

Hi,

As announced in PDN1709, the legacy CPLDs are being discontinued due to Intel PSG’s package vendor phasing out its production line and the declining demand for the legacy product families. Thus we can no longer fabricate these devices anymore.

https://www.intel.com/content/dam/altera-www/global/en_US/pdfs/literature/pcn/pdn1709.pdf

Thank you.

[MCaso1]

Nyusof - Thank you for commenting on this. I understand the reason for discontinuance. Since we utilize these in one of our products we could use your help in regards to marking; could you provide documentation depicting marking requirements on these components (see my original message for additional details?

Abraham - I appreciate you sending documentation 😊 .

[Nooraini_Y_Intel]

Hi MCaso1,

Please cross check with the supplier that you have bought MAX 3000 devices. If you have purchased the devices from the authorize distributor or supplier, then those devices are authentic (not counterfeit).

https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/partner/where-to-buy/overview.html

Regards,

Nooraini

[MCaso1]

Hello Nooraini,

For a part like this which is not in regular distribution my company goes through our approved brokers to attain the part. We impose testing requirement to mitigate counterfeit parts. As part of this process, the Component Engineer, in this case me, works with the manufacturer, Intel, to attain any additional information for our analysis. This is why I need your Intel's support. On my original inquiry I asked additional documentation from you on part marking since the part marking looks suspicious but I have not yet received it. Could you provide additional documentation or get me in touch with someone else that can?

[ChiaLing_T_Intel]

Hi MCaso1,

Effective July 28, 2003, Altera will transition from a single mark to a dual mark on its MAX® 3000A products. You may refer to the Customer Advisory ADV0306 for more information.

https://www.intel.com/content/dam/www/programmable/us/en/pdfs/literature/pcn/adv0306.pdf

In addition, please be noted that Altera has its authorized distributor to sale Altera Devices. If the customer got the devices from formal Altera Distributors, they should be valid Altera devices. Otherwise, Altera do not ensure the device quality and do not provide the further service. Here is solution published for your reference:

https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/programmable/support/support-resources/knowledge-base/solutions/rd11102010_938.html

Thank you

Regards,

Chia Ling

[MCaso1]

Chia Ling - The document was exactly what I needed. Also, could you point me to the Intel/Altera document showing the part number scheme? I cannot find this information. The datasheet for this device does not show this information. As far as counterfeit, I understand the risks; we have a process in place which I mentioned earlier.

[ChiaLing_T_Intel]

Hi MCaso1,

Please refer to the Altera device top side marking format here:

https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/programmable/support/support-resources/knowledge-base/solutions/rd10292013_192.html

This is the device date decoder format for your reference.

Thank you

Regards,

Chia Ling