Overview of XQR17V16-CK44V FPGA Configuration Memory
The XQR17V16-CK44V is a radiation-hardened, 16-megabit configuration PROM designed specifically for storing configuration bitstreams in Xilinx FPGA devices operating in harsh space and military environments. This QPro QPRO_PLUS grade device combines exceptional radiation tolerance with reliable performance across extreme temperature ranges, making it the ideal memory solution for aerospace, defense, and high-reliability applications.
Key Features and Benefits
The XQR17V16-CK44V delivers mission-critical reliability through advanced radiation-hardened design:
- Superior Radiation Tolerance: Immune to single event latch-up with LET greater than 120 MeV/cm²/mg
- Extended TID Rating: Guaranteed total ionizing dose of 50 kRad(Si) per MIL-STD-1019.5
- Epitaxial Substrate Construction: Fabricated on epitaxial substrate for enhanced radiation performance
- Military Temperature Range: Guaranteed operation from -55°C to +125°C
- 16Mbit Storage Capacity: Ample space for complex FPGA configuration bitstreams
- 20-Year Data Retention: Long-term reliability for critical missions
XQR17V16-CK44V Technical Specifications
Electrical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Specification |
Notes |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) |
3.0V to 3.6V |
3.3V nominal operation |
| Operating Temperature |
-55°C to +125°C |
Full military temperature range |
| Storage Capacity |
16,777,216 bits |
16Mbit configuration memory |
| Active Supply Current |
Max 100 mA |
At maximum frequency |
| Standby Current |
Max 1 mA |
Low power consumption |
| Input/Output Voltage (High) |
2.0V to VCC |
Logic high level |
| Input/Output Voltage (Low) |
0V to 0.8V |
Logic low level |
Performance Specifications
| Timing Parameter |
Value |
Unit |
| Serial Configuration Speed |
Up to 33 Mb/s |
Master Serial Mode |
| Parallel Configuration Speed |
Up to 264 Mb/s |
At 33 MHz clock |
| Clock Period (TCYC) |
Min 50 ns |
Maximum frequency 20 MHz |
| Clock to Data Delay (TCAC) |
Max 20 ns |
Configuration latency |
| Output Enable Delay (TOE) |
Max 15 ns |
Fast access time |
| Chip Enable Delay (TCE) |
Max 20 ns |
Quick enable response |
Radiation Hardness Specifications
| Radiation Parameter |
Performance |
Description |
| Total Ionizing Dose (TID) |
50 kRad(Si) minimum |
Data retention and read operations |
| Single Event Latch-Up (SEL) |
0 cm² |
No latch-up for LET > 120 MeV-mg/cm² |
| Single Event Upset (SEU) |
0 cm² |
No upset for LET > 120 MeV-mg/cm² |
Configuration Modes and Interface Options
Dual Configuration Mode Architecture
The XQR17V16-CK44V supports two primary configuration modes for maximum flexibility:
Master Serial Mode
Master Serial Mode provides the simplest interface for FPGA configuration with minimal pin count requirements. The FPGA generates the configuration clock (CCLK) that drives the PROM, enabling automatic configuration upon power-up. This mode requires only one serial data line, two control lines, and one clock line, making it ideal for space-constrained applications.
Slave SelectMAP Mode
For applications demanding faster configuration times, the parallel SelectMAP mode delivers data throughput up to 264 Mb/s. This 8-bit parallel interface significantly reduces configuration time for large, complex FPGA bitstreams, critical for rapid system initialization in aerospace applications.
Pin Configuration and Functionality
| Pin Name |
Function |
Description |
| DATA[0:7] |
Data Output |
8-bit parallel or serial data output |
| CLK |
Clock Input |
Configuration clock for data access |
| RESET/OE |
Reset/Output Enable |
Programmable polarity control |
| CE |
Chip Enable |
Device enable and standby control |
| CEO |
Chip Enable Output |
Cascade output for daisy-chaining |
| BUSY |
Busy Flag |
Data hold control signal |
| VPP |
Programming Voltage |
Connected to VCC during read operations |
Package Options and Physical Specifications
CK44 Ceramic Package Details
The XQR17V16-CK44V utilizes a 44-pin Ceramic Chip Carrier (CK44) package optimized for high-reliability applications:
| Package Characteristic |
Specification |
| Package Type |
44-pin CLCC Ceramic |
| Junction Temperature |
+150°C maximum |
| Storage Temperature |
-65°C to +150°C |
| Soldering Temperature |
260°C max (10 seconds) |
| Input Capacitance |
15 pF typical |
| Output Capacitance |
15 pF typical |
Advanced Features for Mission-Critical Applications
Cascading Capability for Expanded Storage
Multiple XQR17V16-CK44V devices can be cascaded using the CEO (Chip Enable Output) to CE (Chip Enable) connection, enabling storage of longer configuration bitstreams or multiple FPGA configurations. This daisy-chain architecture maintains synchronization across all devices while allowing unlimited expansion of configuration memory capacity.
Programmable Reset Polarity
The RESET/OE pin features programmable polarity (active-high or active-low) for compatibility with different FPGA architectures. The preferred active-low configuration allows direct connection to the FPGA’s INIT pin with a pull-up resistor, ensuring proper address counter reset before each configuration cycle.
One-Time Programmable Technology
Built on low-power CMOS floating-gate process technology, the XQR17V16-CK44V provides permanent, non-volatile storage of configuration data. The one-time programmable (OTP) architecture eliminates concerns about configuration data corruption from radiation events or power cycling.
Applications and Use Cases
Aerospace and Satellite Systems
The XQR17V16-CK44V’s radiation-hardened design makes it ideal for satellite payload processors, navigation systems, and communication subsystems where reliable FPGA configuration in high-radiation environments is essential.
Military and Defense Electronics
Defense applications benefit from the device’s ability to maintain configuration integrity through electromagnetic pulse events and nuclear radiation exposure, critical for missile guidance systems, radar processors, and secure communication equipment.
High-Reliability Industrial Systems
Industries requiring exceptional reliability, such as nuclear power plant monitoring, deep-sea exploration equipment, and particle accelerator control systems, rely on the XQR17V16-CK44V’s guaranteed 20-year data retention and extreme temperature operation.
Programming and Development Support
Compatible Programming Solutions
The XQR17V16-CK44V supports programming through leading third-party programmer manufacturers. Development teams use Xilinx ISE Foundation or ISE WebPACK software packages to compile FPGA design files into standard Hex format, which transfers seamlessly to commercial PROM programmers.
Design Integration Guidelines
For optimal system performance, connect the PROM DATA output to the FPGA DIN input, with the Master FPGA CCLK output driving the PROM CLK input. The RESET/OE input should connect to the FPGA INIT output to guarantee address counter reset before any configuration or reconfiguration event, even during VCC glitch-induced reconfigurations.
Quality and Reliability Standards
QPro QPRO_PLUS Grade Certification
The XQR17V16-CK44V carries V-grade QPro QPRO_PLUS certification, representing the highest quality level for space-flight applications. This grade ensures:
- Comprehensive lot acceptance testing
- 100% screening for manufacturing defects
- Extended environmental stress screening
- Detailed traceability documentation
- Full compliance with MIL-PRF-38535 requirements
Power Supply Requirements
During normal read operations, the VPP programming voltage pin must connect to VCC. Failure to make this connection can result in unpredictable, temperature-dependent operation that significantly complicates circuit debugging. The device requires a monotonic VCC rise time between 1.0 and 50 milliseconds from 0V to nominal voltage for proper power-on-reset functionality.
Ordering Information and Part Numbers
Standard Ordering Configuration
Part Number: XQR17V16CK44V
Grade Breakdown:
- XQR17V16 = Device type (16Mbit radiation hardened PROM)
- CK44 = 44-pin Ceramic Chip Carrier package
- V = QPRO_PLUS grade (-55°C to +125°C)
Competitive Advantages
The XQR17V16-CK44V stands out in the radiation-hardened memory market through several key differentiators:
Proven Heritage: Years of successful deployment in critical space missions demonstrate field-proven reliability.
Cost-Effective Solution: Provides an economical method for storing large FPGA configuration bitstreams compared to alternative radiation-hardened memory solutions.
Easy Integration: Simple interface design minimizes development time and reduces the risk of integration errors.
Low Power Operation: Standby mode reduces power consumption to just 1 mA maximum, critical for battery-powered space systems.
Technical Support and Documentation
Engineers integrating the XQR17V16-CK44V receive comprehensive technical support through Xilinx’s extensive documentation library, including detailed timing diagrams, application notes for cascading configurations, and reference designs for both Master Serial and SelectMAP modes.
Summary
The XQR17V16-CK44V radiation-hardened 16Mbit configuration PROM represents the industry standard for reliable FPGA configuration storage in extreme environments. Its combination of superior radiation tolerance, military-grade temperature performance, and flexible configuration modes makes it the preferred choice for aerospace, defense, and high-reliability applications worldwide. With guaranteed 20-year data retention and comprehensive quality certification, the XQR17V16-CK44V delivers the mission-critical reliability that space-flight and defense systems demand.
