First, the target device must be of the same package and density as the device for which the original programming file was generated.
In addition, when the target device has a greater feature set then the device for which the programming file was created, the MAX PLUS II software will automatically disable the superset features.
Below is a list of some programming file compatibilities within the MAX PLUS II software. Although the cross-programming options outlined below are supported, Altera recommends you recompile your source files and generate a new programming file whenever possible such that timing can be verified in the new target device. 3rd party programmers such as BP Microsystems and System General also support these cross-programming options.
The Quartus II software only supports MAX 7000AE .pof cross-programming into MAX 7000B and MAX 3000A cross-programming into MAX 7000AE. All other combinations are not supported by the Quartus II software.
| Device for which Prog File was generated | Target Device | File Types Supported | Notes |
| MAX 3000A | MAX 7000AE | .pof | 1,2 |
| MAX 7000 | MAX 7000E/MAX 7000A/MAX 7000S/ MAX 7000AE/ MAX 7000B | .pof | 1 |
| EPM7032V | EPM7032S, EPM7032A, EPM7032AE, EPM7032B | .pof | 1 |
| MAX 7000A | MAX 7000AE/MAX 7000B | .pof | 1 |
| MAX 7000S | MAX 7000A/MAX 7000AE/MAX 7000B | .pof | 1 |
| MAX 7000E | MAX 7000A/MAX 7000AE/MAX 7000S/MAX 7000B | .pof | 1 |
| MAX 7000AE | MAX 7000B | .pof | 1,2 |
Notes:
- Supported in MAX PLUS II software
- Supported in Quartus II software