I/O Initialization: Beware of Shark Fins!

The default IO termination for many older Lattice devices is pull up. When the device is powering up/down, the IO will ramp up/down following the IO power supply. If the IO voltage is monitored using a scope it will look like a “shark fin.” In some cases this can cause a problem if other connected devices on the board reset or trigger from an active high signal.

Here are some workarounds:
-    Use a quick switch as a buffer between the IO and the other devices; the quick switch is powered-on only when all devices reach recommended voltage levels
-    Have a board reset controller, such as Lattice’s Power Manager II, hold the reset until all devices reach recommended voltage levels
-    Have a pull down resistor to GND such that (1 mA * resistor value) is significantly less than the input threshold voltage of the other devices on the board. The 1 mA value is the typical hot socketing leakage current (datasheet parameter Idk) that could pull up the output during a power up, and possibly during a power down

During normal operation (when devices reach recommended voltage levels) the pull mode for the IO can be changed using the ispLEVER Design Planner or the ispLEVER Classic Constraints Editor. Note that for most of our newer devices (like the ispMACH4000ZE and LatticeECP3) the default IO terminations are pull down.