Overview of XC3064A-7PC84C FPGA
The XC3064A-7PC84C is a professional-grade Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from AMD (formerly Xilinx), belonging to the renowned XC3000A/L series. This legacy FPGA solution delivers reliable performance for industrial control systems, embedded applications, and prototyping projects requiring flexible programmable logic capabilities.
Designed with 224 configurable logic blocks (CLBs) and 3,500 usable gates, the XC3064A-7PC84C offers engineers substantial logic density within a compact 84-pin PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) package. Operating at speeds up to 113 MHz with a propagation delay of just 5.1 nanoseconds, this FPGA provides the processing power needed for time-critical digital designs.
Key Technical Specifications
Core FPGA Features
| Specification |
Value |
| Part Number |
XC3064A-7PC84C |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (Xilinx) |
| Product Family |
XC3000A/L Series |
| Logic Elements |
224 CLBs (Configurable Logic Blocks) |
| Gate Count |
3,500 Gates |
| Maximum Frequency |
113 MHz |
| Propagation Delay |
5.1 ns |
Package and Physical Characteristics
| Feature |
Details |
| Package Type |
84-LCC (J-Lead) / PLCC84 |
| Pin Count |
84 pins |
| I/O Pins |
70 user I/O pins |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
| Package Height |
5.08 mm |
| Lead Finish |
Tin/Lead (Sn85Pb15) |
Electrical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Supply Voltage |
5V (Single Supply) |
| Technology |
CMOS |
| Speed Grade |
-7 (Standard Performance) |
| Operating Temperature |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| Power Consumption |
Low power CMOS design |
XC3064A-7PC84C Applications and Use Cases
Industrial Control Systems
The XC3064A-7PC84C excels in factory automation, process control, and industrial monitoring systems where reprogrammable logic provides flexibility for protocol implementation and control algorithms.
Legacy System Maintenance
As a proven FPGA solution, the XC3064A-7PC84C serves as a critical replacement component for maintaining existing equipment and production lines that rely on XC3000A series devices.
Embedded System Development
Engineers leverage this FPGA for custom peripheral interfaces, state machine implementation, and glue logic in embedded systems requiring moderate complexity programmable logic.
Educational and Prototyping
The straightforward architecture of the XC3000A family makes the XC3064A-7PC84C an excellent learning platform for students and engineers exploring FPGA design principles.
Understanding the XC3064A-7PC84C Part Number
The part number encoding reveals important device characteristics:
- XC3064A: Indicates XC3000A family with 64 array size
- -7: Speed grade designation (standard performance)
- PC: Package code for Plastic Chip Carrier
- 84: 84-pin package configuration
- C: Commercial temperature range qualification
Why Choose XC3064A-7PC84C for Your Design
Proven Reliability
Backed by decades of deployment in mission-critical applications, the XC3064A-7PC84C offers field-proven reliability that newer technologies are still working to match.
Cost-Effective Solution
For applications not requiring cutting-edge performance, this FPGA provides an economical alternative to modern high-density devices while delivering adequate logic resources.
Simplified Design Flow
The XC3000A architecture features straightforward design tools and well-documented development processes, reducing time-to-market for new projects and maintenance activities.
Industrial Temperature Tolerance
Commercial temperature rating ensures stable operation across typical industrial environments without requiring expensive military-grade components.
XC3064A-7PC84C vs. Modern FPGAs
While newer Xilinx FPGA families offer higher gate counts and advanced features, the XC3064A-7PC84C remains relevant for:
- Replacement applications requiring pin-compatible solutions
- Cost-sensitive projects where moderate logic density suffices
- Legacy system support with established design databases
- Simple control logic not demanding advanced DSP or memory blocks
Design Considerations for XC3064A-7PC84C
Power Supply Requirements
Ensure your design provides clean, regulated 5V power with adequate decoupling capacitors positioned near the FPGA pins for optimal signal integrity.
Programming and Configuration
The XC3064A-7PC84C supports various configuration modes including serial PROM, parallel programming, and boundary-scan programming via JTAG interface.
Thermal Management
While CMOS technology minimizes power consumption, proper PCB layout with adequate copper planes helps dissipate heat in high-utilization designs.
I/O Standards Compatibility
The 5V CMOS I/O standards require level shifting circuits when interfacing with modern 3.3V or 1.8V logic families.
XC3064A-7PC84C Availability and Sourcing
Current Production Status
Note that the XC3064A-7PC84C is a mature product that may have limited production. Contact authorized distributors for current availability and lead times.
Authorized Distributors
Purchase from reputable electronics distributors to ensure authentic components with proper quality assurance and traceability documentation.
Alternative Solutions
For new designs, consider pin-compatible alternatives or migration paths to current FPGA families offering enhanced features and long-term availability.
Technical Support and Resources
Development Tools
Design software including ISE (Integrated Software Environment) from AMD supports the XC3000A family with synthesis, place-and-route, and simulation capabilities.
Documentation
Comprehensive datasheets, application notes, and reference designs are available from AMD’s technical library and legacy product archives.
Community Support
Online forums and engineering communities provide valuable troubleshooting assistance and design examples for XC3000A series implementations.
Frequently Asked Questions About XC3064A-7PC84C
Q: Is the XC3064A-7PC84C still in production? A: This is a legacy product with limited production. Check with authorized distributors for current inventory and availability.
Q: What development tools support XC3064A-7PC84C programming? A: Xilinx ISE software provides complete design flow support including VHDL/Verilog synthesis and device configuration.
Q: Can I replace XC3064A-7PC84C with newer Xilinx FPGAs? A: While pin-compatible replacements may not exist, functional equivalents from current FPGA families can be used with board redesign.
Q: What is the maximum operating frequency of XC3064A-7PC84C? A: The device supports operation up to 113 MHz, though actual achievable frequency depends on design complexity and routing.
Q: Does XC3064A-7PC84C support 3.3V I/O standards? A: No, this device operates with 5V CMOS I/O. Level translators are required for interfacing with 3.3V or lower voltage systems.
Conclusion: XC3064A-7PC84C for Legacy and Specialized Applications
The XC3064A-7PC84C Field Programmable Gate Array represents a reliable solution for maintaining existing equipment, educational applications, and cost-sensitive designs requiring moderate programmable logic resources. While modern FPGA families offer superior performance and features, the XC3064A-7PC84C continues serving applications where proven reliability and straightforward design methodology outweigh cutting-edge capabilities.
For engineers working with legacy systems or seeking economical programmable logic solutions, understanding the capabilities and limitations of the XC3064A-7PC84C enables informed component selection and successful project outcomes. Whether replacing failed components or developing new designs compatible with existing infrastructure, this FPGA provides a practical option backed by extensive application history.
