Lattice PLSI1016-80LJ: A Comprehensive Overview of the High-Density Programmable Logic Device

The Lattice PLSI1016-80LJ represents a significant milestone in the evolution of high-density programmable logic. As a member of the ispLSI 1000 family, this device was engineered to deliver a powerful combination of high logic integration, in-system programmability (ISP), and reliable performance for complex digital designs. Its architecture was a compelling solution for engineers seeking to replace numerous standard logic ICs with a single, reconfigurable chip, thereby reducing board space, component count, and overall system cost.

At the core of the PLSI1016-80LJ is a High-Density Programmable Logic architecture. The device features a Generic Logic Block (GLB) structure, which is analogous to a Complex PLD (CPLD). The "1016" denotes a logic capacity of approximately 2,000 PLD gates, organized into 16 GLBs. Each GLB contains programmable AND arrays and macrocells, providing a flexible and familiar logic implementation platform for designers. The "80LJ" suffix typically indicates the 80MHz maximum operating frequency and the LJ package type.

A defining feature of this family is its In-System Programmability (ISP). Utilizing a simple 5-wire interface, designers could program and reprogram the device after it was soldered onto the printed circuit board (PCB). This capability dramatically accelerated design debugging, prototyping, and field upgrades, eliminating the need for physical device handling and socketing.

The internal structure is further enhanced by a Global Routing Pool (GRP), a central interconnect resource that provides 100% routability between all GLBs and input/output pins. This ensures that designers can utilize the full logic capacity of the device without being constrained by fixed routing limitations. The device also includes dedicated clock management resources, supporting multiple clock inputs with programmable polarity, which is essential for synchronous state machine design.

The PLSI1016-80LJ found widespread application across various industries. It was commonly used in dense logic integration tasks such as bus interfacing (e.g., PCI local bus control), state machine implementation, address decoding, and complex glue logic consolidation in telecommunications, computer peripherals, and industrial control systems. Its predictable timing performance made it a reliable choice for critical control path applications.

ICGOOODFIND: The Lattice PLSI1016-80LJ stands as a classic example of early high-density CPLD technology. It successfully bridged the gap between simple PLDs and more complex FPGAs by offering a robust blend of deterministic timing, in-system programmability, and a sufficient logic gate count for a wide array of digital design needs, solidifying its place as a workhorse component in its era.

Keywords: Programmable Logic Device, In-System Programmability, High-Density Integration, CPLD, Generic Logic Block (GLB)