12 ns PAL-type PLD — what the speed grade means for the logic path
The GAL16V8A-12LVC is an electrically erasable programmable logic device from National Semiconductor, implementing PAL-type architecture with a 12 ns propagation delay. That 12 ns figure sets the maximum combinatorial logic depth between registered outputs — for a synchronous design clocked at 50 MHz (20 ns period), the 12 ns delay leaves 8 ns of timing margin before the next clock edge, which must also absorb the register setup time and board trace skew.
Active lifecycle and RoHS compliance
The part carries an Active product status, meaning National Semiconductor continues to manufacture and support it for new and existing designs. Note the RoHS compliance status is non-compliant — this device contains lead in the solder balls or termination finish, so it is not suitable for assemblies requiring RoHS exemption-free compliance. For RoHS-constrained BOMs, a lead-free variant from the same family should be evaluated.
Bulk package — what it means for the procurement desk
Supplied in Bulk packaging — loose tubes or trays, not tape-and-reel. This is the standard delivery format for through-hole or large-body SMD PLDs that do not run on high-speed pick-and-place lines. For a repair depot or low-volume production run, Bulk avoids the reel surcharge; for high-volume lines, confirm the reel availability with the distributor at RFQ time.