Overview of XC3142A-3PQ100I FPGA

The XC3142A-3PQ100I is a high-performance field programmable gate array manufactured by Xilinx (now part of AMD). This industrial-grade FPGA belongs to the proven XC3000A series, offering exceptional reliability for demanding applications that require operation in extreme temperature conditions. With 144 configurable logic blocks and 3,000 usable gates, this component provides engineers with a versatile platform for custom VLSI design implementations.

Key Technical Specifications

Core Performance Parameters

Package Dimensions and Characteristics

Advanced Architecture and Design Features

Configurable Logic Block (CLB) Architecture

The XC3142A-3PQ100I features a sophisticated architecture composed of three primary configurable elements that work together to deliver flexible, high-performance digital logic implementation:

Core Array Components:

• 144 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) for complex combinatorial and sequential logic
• Perimeter I/O Blocks (IOBs) providing flexible interfacing capabilities
• Extensive interconnection resources for routing signals between blocks
• Internal 3-state bus capabilities for efficient data transfer

Performance Characteristics:

• Toggle rates ranging from 70 to 370 MHz depending on configuration
• Logic delays as low as 1.5 nanoseconds
• System clock speeds exceeding 85 MHz
• Low quiescent and active power consumption

Flexible I/O Configuration

The device offers versatile input/output capabilities with support for multiple interface standards:

• TTL or CMOS selectable input thresholds
• 82 user-configurable I/O pins
• High fan-out signal distribution networks
• Low-skew clock distribution for synchronous designs
• On-chip crystal oscillator amplifier for clock generation

Industrial Temperature Range Applications

The “-I” suffix in the XC3142A-3PQ100I designation indicates industrial temperature qualification, making this FPGA ideal for harsh environment applications:

Target Application Sectors

Industrial Automation and Control:

• Process control systems operating in factory environments
• Motor control and drive systems
• Industrial robotics and motion control
• Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)

Telecommunications Infrastructure:

• Base station equipment for wireless networks
• Network routing and switching equipment
• Protocol converters and interface adapters
• Signal processing applications

Automotive and Transportation:

• Engine management systems
• Vehicle control units
• Transportation infrastructure equipment
• Railway signaling systems

Military and Aerospace:

• Avionics systems requiring extended temperature operation
• Rugged communication equipment
• Defense electronics
• Satellite ground station equipment

Programming and Configuration Options

Flexible Configuration Methods

The XC3142A-3PQ100I stores user logic functions in internal static memory cells, offering multiple configuration options to suit various system requirements:

Unlimited Reprogrammability Benefits

As a SRAM-based FPGA, this device offers significant advantages over one-time programmable solutions:

• Easy design iteration during development
• In-system logic modifications and updates
• Field upgradable functionality
• Reduced time-to-market for product revisions
• No need for costly mask-based gate array redesigns

Design Development Ecosystem

Compatible Development Tools

Engineers working with the XC3142A-3PQ100I can leverage Xilinx’s comprehensive development environment:

Software Tools:

• ISE Design Suite for XC3000 series devices
• Schematic capture for graphical design entry
• Automatic place-and-route algorithms
• Logic and timing simulation capabilities
• In-circuit emulation for hardware verification
• Interactive design editor for optimization

Programming Hardware:

• Compatible with standard Xilinx programming cables
• JTAG boundary scan support for testing
• In-system programming capabilities

Comparison with Related XC3000 Series Devices

XC3000A Family Variants

Why Choose Xilinx FPGA Technology?

Xilinx pioneered the FPGA industry and continues to lead in programmable logic innovation. The XC3000A series represents proven, mature technology with extensive field deployment across multiple industries. While newer FPGA families offer higher density and performance, the XC3142A remains relevant for applications requiring:

• Proven long-term reliability
• 5V tolerant I/O compatibility
• Simple, straightforward architecture
• Lower cost for moderate complexity designs
• Extensive legacy system support

Technical Advantages Summary

Key Benefits of XC3142A-3PQ100I

Reliability and Robustness:

• Industrial temperature qualification ensures operation from -40°C to +85°C
• CMOS static memory technology for excellent noise immunity
• Extensive quality testing and screening
• Long product lifecycle support

Design Flexibility:

• 144 CLBs provide ample logic resources for complex designs
• Unlimited reprogrammability enables design evolution
• Multiple configuration modes adapt to various system architectures
• Compatible with standard 5V logic families

Performance Capabilities:

• 270 MHz toggle rate supports high-speed applications
• Low propagation delays minimize system latency
• On-chip clock management for synchronous designs
• High-speed I/O for interfacing with fast peripherals

Cost Effectiveness:

• Eliminates NRE costs associated with ASIC development
• Reduces time-to-market compared to custom silicon
• Replaces multiple TTL/MSI logic devices in single chip
• Lower inventory costs through field programmability

Ordering Information and Package Marking

Part Number Nomenclature

The complete part number XC3142A-3PQ100I breaks down as follows:

• XC3142A: Device family and gate count (3,000 gates, 142 CLBs)
• -3: Speed grade (270 MHz maximum frequency)
• PQ100: Package type (100-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack)
• I: Temperature range (Industrial: -40°C to +85°C)

Quality and Compliance

All XC3142A-3PQ100I devices undergo rigorous testing to ensure compliance with industrial standards:

• RoHS compliant for environmental responsibility
• ESD protection exceeding industry standards
• Moisture sensitivity level appropriate for surface mount assembly
• 100% production tested for functionality and timing specifications

Design Considerations and Best Practices

Power Supply Requirements

The XC3142A-3PQ100I requires proper power supply design for reliable operation:

• Core voltage: 5V ±5% tolerance
• Adequate decoupling capacitors near power pins
• Separate analog supply for internal oscillator (if used)
• Current capacity based on logic utilization and toggle rates

Thermal Management

Despite CMOS technology’s low power consumption, industrial applications require thermal considerations:

• Junction temperature monitoring in extreme environments
• Adequate airflow or heat sinking for high-utilization designs
• Thermal simulation during PCB design phase
• Consideration of altitude effects on thermal performance

Signal Integrity

To achieve optimal performance from this 270 MHz capable device:

• Controlled impedance routing for high-speed signals
• Proper termination of clock and critical signal paths
• Ground plane implementation for noise reduction
• Careful attention to simultaneous switching noise

Conclusion: Industrial-Grade FPGA for Demanding Applications

The XC3142A-3PQ100I represents a robust, field-proven solution for industrial and harsh-environment applications requiring programmable logic functionality. With its industrial temperature rating, 144 configurable logic blocks, and flexible 100-pin PQFP package, this FPGA delivers reliable performance in applications where standard commercial-grade components fall short.

Whether you’re designing industrial control systems, telecommunications equipment, automotive electronics, or military/aerospace applications, the XC3142A-3PQ100I provides the perfect balance of logic capacity, performance, and environmental resilience. Its unlimited reprogrammability ensures your design can evolve with changing requirements, while Xilinx’s proven development tools streamline the design process from concept to production.

For engineers seeking a dependable FPGA solution that can withstand extreme temperatures while delivering 270 MHz performance and 3,000 gates of logic capacity, the XC3142A-3PQ100I stands as an excellent choice backed by decades of successful field deployments worldwide.