Overview
The XC3042A-7PG84I is a versatile field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from AMD (formerly Xilinx), designed for advanced digital logic applications. This industrial-grade FPGA delivers exceptional performance and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for complex embedded systems, digital signal processing, and custom logic implementation.
Product Description
The XC3042A-7PG84I belongs to the XC3000A family of FPGAs, offering a powerful combination of logic capacity, I/O flexibility, and reliable performance in demanding industrial environments. With its 84-pin PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) package, this FPGA provides an optimal balance between functionality and board space requirements.
This Xilinx FPGA incorporates proven architecture with extensive configuration options, enabling engineers to implement custom digital circuits, state machines, and complex logic functions with remarkable efficiency.
Key Features and Specifications
Core Architecture
- Logic Cells: 144 configurable logic blocks (CLBs)
- Maximum System Gates: 1,800 gates
- Logic Elements/Cells: 96 logic cells
- Total RAM Bits: 2,304 bits
- I/O Pins: 69 user-configurable I/O pins
Performance Characteristics
- Operating Voltage: 5V (±10%)
- Speed Grade: -7 (7ns propagation delay)
- Maximum Operating Frequency: Up to 125 MHz
- Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C (Industrial grade)
Package Details
- Package Type: 84-PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier)
- Pin Count: 84 pins
- Mounting Type: Through-hole
- Package Dimensions: Square package with leads on all four sides
Technical Specifications Table
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC3042A-7PG84I |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (Xilinx) |
| Product Family |
XC3000A Series |
| Logic Elements |
96 cells |
| Total RAM Bits |
2,304 bits |
| I/O Count |
69 |
| Voltage Supply |
5V |
| Speed Grade |
-7 |
| Operating Temp |
-40°C to +85°C |
| Package Type |
84-PLCC |
| Mounting Style |
Through-Hole |
Performance Comparison
| Feature |
XC3042A-7PG84I |
Typical Competitor |
| Logic Cells |
96 |
64-96 |
| RAM Bits |
2,304 |
1,536-2,048 |
| I/O Pins |
69 |
52-64 |
| Max Frequency |
125 MHz |
100-115 MHz |
| Industrial Temp Range |
-40°C to +85°C |
-40°C to +85°C |
Applications and Use Cases
Industrial Automation
The XC3042A-7PG84I excels in industrial control systems, providing reliable operation in harsh environments. Its robust design ensures consistent performance in:
- Process control systems
- Manufacturing equipment interfaces
- Sensor data acquisition systems
- Industrial communication protocols
Embedded Systems
Perfect for custom embedded applications requiring:
- Custom peripheral interfaces
- Protocol conversion
- Real-time signal processing
- Hardware acceleration
Telecommunications
Ideal for telecommunications infrastructure including:
- Digital signal processing
- Protocol implementation
- Data path customization
- Interface bridging
Consumer Electronics
Suitable for consumer product development:
- Custom logic implementation
- System-on-chip prototyping
- Interface controllers
- Video/audio processing
Design Advantages
Flexibility
The configurable logic blocks allow designers to implement virtually any digital function, from simple combinatorial logic to complex sequential circuits.
Reliability
With industrial-grade temperature rating (-40°C to +85°C), the XC3042A-7PG84I ensures reliable operation in challenging environmental conditions.
Cost-Effective
The balanced feature set provides excellent value for medium-complexity applications without over-specification.
Development Support
Extensive development tools and documentation are available, including:
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite compatibility
- Reference designs and application notes
- Active community support
- Comprehensive datasheets
Pin Configuration Overview
The 84-PLCC package provides:
- 69 User I/O pins: Configurable as inputs, outputs, or bidirectional
- Power and Ground pins: Multiple pins for stable power distribution
- Configuration pins: Dedicated pins for FPGA programming
- Clock inputs: Dedicated clock distribution networks
Programming and Configuration
Configuration Methods
- Master Serial Mode: FPGA controls configuration sequence
- Slave Serial Mode: External controller manages configuration
- Boundary Scan (JTAG): IEEE 1149.1 compliant for testing and programming
Configuration Memory
- External serial PROM or parallel EPROM
- Volatile SRAM-based configuration
- Requires reconfiguration on power-up
Development Ecosystem
Design Tools
- Xilinx ISE (Integrated Software Environment)
- Third-party synthesis tools
- Simulation and verification software
- Timing analysis tools
Support Resources
- Comprehensive application notes
- Reference designs
- Online community forums
- Technical documentation
Electrical Characteristics Table
| Parameter |
Min |
Typ |
Max |
Unit |
| Supply Voltage (Vcc) |
4.5 |
5.0 |
5.5 |
V |
| Input High Voltage |
2.0 |
– |
Vcc |
V |
| Input Low Voltage |
GND |
– |
0.8 |
V |
| Output High Voltage |
2.4 |
– |
– |
V |
| Output Low Voltage |
– |
– |
0.4 |
V |
| Power Consumption (Typ) |
– |
400 |
600 |
mW |
Quality and Reliability
Standards Compliance
- RoHS compliant
- Industrial temperature grade
- Moisture sensitivity level (MSL): Level 3
- ESD protection on all pins
Reliability Features
- Built-in thermal protection
- Latch-up resistant design
- Extended operational lifetime
- Proven manufacturing process
Ordering Information
Full Part Number: XC3042A-7PG84I
Part Number Breakdown:
- XC3042A: Device family and density
- -7: Speed grade (7ns)
- PG84: Package type (84-pin PLCC)
- I: Industrial temperature range
Storage and Handling
Storage Requirements
- Temperature: -55°C to +150°C
- Humidity: <60% RH
- Avoid static discharge
- Store in anti-static packaging
PCB Design Considerations
- Adequate power supply decoupling
- Proper ground plane design
- Signal integrity planning
- Thermal management provisions
Comparison with Related Products
XC3042A Family Variants
| Part Number |
Speed Grade |
Package |
Temperature |
| XC3042A-7PG84I |
-7 (fastest) |
84-PLCC |
Industrial |
| XC3042A-5PG84I |
-5 |
84-PLCC |
Industrial |
| XC3042A-7PC84C |
-7 |
84-PLCC |
Commercial |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between industrial and commercial grades? A: Industrial grade (-40°C to +85°C) offers wider temperature tolerance compared to commercial grade (0°C to +70°C).
Q: Can this FPGA be reprogrammed? A: Yes, the XC3042A uses SRAM-based configuration and can be reprogrammed unlimited times.
Q: What development tools are required? A: Xilinx ISE Design Suite is the primary development environment for this FPGA family.
Q: Is this device still in production? A: The XC3000A family is a mature product line. Check with distributors for current availability.
Conclusion
The XC3042A-7PG84I represents a reliable, proven FPGA solution for industrial and embedded applications. Its combination of adequate logic resources, robust industrial-grade specifications, and cost-effective pricing makes it an excellent choice for medium-complexity digital designs. Whether you’re implementing custom control logic, protocol converters, or specialized interfaces, this Xilinx FPGA delivers the performance and reliability your project demands.
For detailed technical specifications, programming guides, and application notes, consult the official AMD Xilinx documentation or contact your local distributor for samples and technical support.
