Altera

Traditionally, portable system designers have used ASICs and ASSPs to implement memory interfaces, I/O expansion, power-on sequencing, discrete logic functions, and display functions in portable systems. Low-cost, low-power, and small board space requirements have limited the use of programmable logic devices in portable applications. Today, however, low average selling prices combined with low power consumption and small form-factor packages allow programmable logic devices to replace or augment ASICs, ASSPs, and discrete devices in portable applications.

Due to their very low-cost and differentiating product features such as new ultra-small form-factor packages, high density, on-chip voltage regulator, and new power-down capability, MAX II CPLDs offer portable system designers, on average, 50 percent lower cost and power than competing CPLD solutions. They continue to provide the time-to-market and flexibility benefits that ASICs and ASSPS cannot deliver.