2233 - LatticeECP3:  How to avoid a DQ output from becoming a PLL input when moving from a lower to a higher density device?

2233 - LatticeECP3:  How to avoid a DQ output from becoming a PLL input when moving from a lower to a higher density device?

The solution depends on whether or not the PCB has already been laid and the board's back is ready for use. In the schematic phase of the design, the solution is to move the DQ signal at pin T3 to another pin that is in the same DQ group that has DQ output capability.

If boards have already been built-up with pin T3 connected as a DQ output, then to use the larger density device on the existing boards, find an adjacent pin near T3 that can also function as a DQ output in that group, and if possible, solder a wire strap from the adjacent pin to T3. This type of solution would work best if the adjacent pin were close to T3, and it is accessible from the back side of the PCB through the thru hole vias. This type of solution may show signal quality issues at the higher data rates.

Another option would be to lower the design features so as to use the lower density device again until new boards are built up that use the larger density device with the signal previously at pin T3, moved to another DQ output pin.