Why do I get CRC errors in my Cyclone V device after configuration is complete?

Description

Due to a known Quartus® II software issue in version 12.1sp1, incorrect settings are causing CRC errors to be seen after configuration in Cyclone® V devices. This affects the following device densities:

• 5CEA5
• 5CGXC4
• 5CGXC5
• 5CGTD5

This will cause the device to function improperly in user mode.

One characteristic is a stuck bit either at 1 or 0 in affected designs. To determine if you are affected by this, probe the CRC_error pin or  use the soft CRC_error IP, refer to AN539 Test Methodology of Error Detection and Recovery using CRC in Altera FPGA Devices (PDF) on how to implement soft CRC_error IP.

Resolution

Update your Quartus II software to version 13.0 for any Cyclone V designs targeting the affected devices.