Each input term in the CL3000A product term AND array is implemented by a single transistor and three metal links. One link controls the disabling of the input term. The other two links are used to select whether or not the signal is inverted. Since word line polarity is selected with one of these two fuses, no transistors are needed for the storage and selection of word-line polarity. The unique architecture of the CL3000A's input terms, takes up about one-half as much silicon as the six transistors that Altera uses for this purpose in the MAX 3000A architecture.
Vertical links require very little silicon area.
The technology allows circuitry to be placed underneath the links, as well as very close to them, minimizing the portion of the CL3000A die devoted to configuration and resulting in an exceptionally small die. An added benefit of the vertical links is that they draw no power at all, substantially reducing overall power consumption of CL3000A devices. Production quantities are available within four to six weeks about the same amount of time required to get pre-programmed MAX 3000A devices from a distributor. This level of testability is unavailable with programmable devices. Within two weeks, the company ships configured CL3000A devices that are guaranteed to work in the MAX 3000A socket.