Overview of XC2S150E-5PQ208C Field Programmable Gate Array
The XC2S150E-5PQ208C is a versatile field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from AMD Xilinx’s renowned Spartan-IIE family. This programmable logic device delivers exceptional performance with 150,000 system gates, making it an ideal solution for industrial automation, telecommunications equipment, embedded systems, and advanced electronic design projects. The device combines cost-effectiveness with powerful features, offering designers a flexible platform for implementing complex digital logic circuits.
As part of the extended Spartan-IIE series, this FPGA provides enhanced capabilities compared to standard Spartan-II devices while maintaining backward compatibility. The XC2S150E-5PQ208C stands out in the Xilinx FPGA product line for its balance of logic capacity, I/O options, and competitive pricing.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC2S150E-5PQ208C |
| Manufacturer |
AMD Xilinx |
| Product Family |
Spartan-IIE |
| System Gates |
150,000 gates |
| Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) |
864 CLBs |
| Logic Cells |
3,888 cells |
| Maximum Operating Frequency |
263 MHz |
| Block RAM |
Up to 56 Kbits |
| Distributed RAM |
28,800 bits |
| Process Technology |
0.18μm CMOS |
| Core Voltage |
1.8V |
| I/O Voltage |
2.5V / 3.3V |
| Package Type |
208-pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Speed Grade |
-5 (5ns) |
| Operating Temperature Range |
Commercial (0°C to +85°C) |
Advanced Architecture and Features
Configurable Logic Resources
The XC2S150E-5PQ208C incorporates 864 configurable logic blocks, each containing multiple look-up tables (LUTs) and flip-flops. This architecture enables efficient implementation of complex combinational and sequential logic circuits. The device supports both distributed RAM and dedicated block RAM configurations, providing designers with flexible memory options for data buffering, FIFO implementations, and small memory arrays.
I/O Capabilities and Standards
This FPGA supports 16 different I/O standards, ensuring compatibility with various industry interfaces and voltage levels. The device includes:
- LVTTL and LVCMOS support
- Differential signaling standards
- Hot-swap capability on select I/O banks
- Individual I/O programmable slew rate control
- Weak pull-up and pull-down resistors
Clock Management System
The XC2S150E-5PQ208C features four digital delay-locked loops (DLLs) for precise clock management and distribution. These DLLs eliminate clock skew, provide flexible frequency synthesis, and enable phase shifting capabilities essential for high-speed digital designs.
Performance Characteristics
| Performance Metric |
Value |
| System Performance |
Up to 263 MHz |
| Logic Delay |
5ns (speed grade -5) |
| Maximum I/O Pins |
176 user I/O pins |
| Global Clock Buffers |
8 dedicated clock lines |
| DLL Count |
4 digital delay-locked loops |
| Internal Memory |
72 Kbits total (Block + Distributed RAM) |
Application Areas
Industrial Automation and Control Systems
The XC2S150E-5PQ208C excels in industrial control applications where reliable, real-time processing is critical. Its robust design and commercial temperature range make it suitable for:
- Motor control systems
- Process automation controllers
- Factory automation equipment
- Sensor interface modules
- Industrial networking bridges
Telecommunications and Networking
With support for high-speed interfaces and protocols, this FPGA is widely deployed in telecommunications infrastructure:
- Protocol conversion devices
- Data packet processing
- Network interface cards
- Signal processing equipment
- Communication protocol implementations
Embedded Systems Development
The device serves as an excellent choice for embedded system designers requiring programmable logic:
- Co-processor implementations
- Custom peripheral controllers
- Real-time signal processing
- Hardware acceleration modules
- System-on-chip (SoC) prototypes
Medical and Test Equipment
Medical device manufacturers and test equipment designers leverage the XC2S150E-5PQ208C for:
- Medical imaging systems
- Patient monitoring devices
- Laboratory instrumentation
- Automated test equipment (ATE)
- Data acquisition systems
Package and Physical Specifications
| Package Details |
Specification |
| Package Type |
PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
208 pins |
| Body Size |
28mm × 28mm |
| Lead Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
| Compliance |
RoHS Compliant (Lead-Free) |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level |
MSL 3 |
| Weight |
Approximately 2.5 grams |
Design and Development Advantages
FPGA Benefits Over ASICs
The XC2S150E-5PQ208C offers significant advantages compared to application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs):
- Reduced Development Time: No lengthy fabrication cycles required
- Lower Initial Costs: Eliminates expensive mask sets and NRE fees
- Design Flexibility: In-system reprogrammability enables field updates
- Risk Mitigation: Design errors can be corrected through reconfiguration
- Faster Time-to-Market: Accelerated product development cycles
Predictable Interconnect Performance
The Spartan-IIE architecture features fast, predictable interconnect routing that maintains timing closure across design iterations. This characteristic ensures that performance requirements remain met even as designs evolve during development.
Development Tool Support
Xilinx ISE Design Suite Compatibility
The XC2S150E-5PQ208C is fully supported by Xilinx ISE Design Suite, providing comprehensive tools for:
- HDL synthesis (VHDL and Verilog)
- Timing analysis and constraint management
- Place and route optimization
- Bitstream generation
- In-system debugging
Programming and Configuration Options
Multiple configuration modes are supported:
- Master Serial mode
- Slave Serial mode
- Boundary Scan (JTAG)
- SelectMAP parallel configuration
- Master Parallel mode
Power Consumption Profile
| Power Category |
Typical Value |
| Core Static Power |
50 mW (typical) |
| I/O Power |
Varies by configuration |
| Dynamic Power |
Load and frequency dependent |
| Total Device Power |
Application specific (100-500 mW typical) |
Quality and Reliability
Manufacturing Standards
The XC2S150E-5PQ208C is manufactured using advanced semiconductor processes and meets stringent quality standards:
- ISO 9001 certified manufacturing
- JEDEC standard compliance
- Automotive-grade quality processes available
- Extended temperature range variants available
Environmental Compliance
This device fully complies with environmental regulations:
- RoHS Directive compliant
- REACH regulation compliant
- Halogen-free options available
- Conflict-free materials sourcing
Comparison with Related Models
| Model |
Gates |
CLBs |
Max Freq |
Package |
| XC2S100E-5PQ208C |
100,000 |
576 |
250 MHz |
208-PQFP |
| XC2S150E-5PQ208C |
150,000 |
864 |
263 MHz |
208-PQFP |
| XC2S200E-5PQ208C |
200,000 |
1,152 |
275 MHz |
208-PQFP |
| XC2S150E-6FG456C |
150,000 |
864 |
300 MHz |
456-FBGA |
Design Considerations
Pin Assignment and PCB Layout
When designing with the XC2S150E-5PQ208C:
- Plan I/O bank utilization for voltage compatibility
- Consider signal integrity for high-speed interfaces
- Implement proper power supply decoupling
- Maintain adequate thermal management
- Follow Xilinx PCB design guidelines
Thermal Management
The PQFP208 package provides adequate thermal performance for most applications. Consider:
- Junction temperature monitoring
- Adequate airflow in enclosed systems
- Thermal vias for heat dissipation
- Power consumption estimation tools
Supply Chain and Availability
The XC2S150E-5PQ208C is available through authorized distributors worldwide. While classified as a mature product, it remains in active production to support existing designs and long-lifecycle applications. Multiple sourcing options ensure supply continuity for critical projects.
Migration Path and Future-Proofing
Designers working with the XC2S150E-5PQ208C have clear migration paths to newer FPGA families:
- Spartan-3E series for enhanced performance
- Spartan-6 family for advanced features
- Artix-7 series for modern applications
- Pin-compatible options within Spartan-IIE family
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation Available
Comprehensive documentation supports successful implementation:
- Complete datasheet with electrical specifications
- User guide with architectural details
- Application notes for common designs
- Reference designs and IP cores
- PCB layout guidelines
Community and Engineering Support
Access extensive support resources:
- Xilinx community forums
- Technical support portal
- Design consultation services
- Training courses and webinars
- Third-party design services
Conclusion
The XC2S150E-5PQ208C represents a proven, cost-effective FPGA solution for designers requiring reliable programmable logic with substantial gate capacity. Its combination of 150,000 gates, 208-pin PQFP package, and comprehensive I/O support makes it suitable for diverse applications spanning industrial, telecommunications, medical, and embedded system markets.
With strong vendor support, extensive documentation, and a robust design ecosystem, this device continues to be an excellent choice for both new designs and legacy system maintenance. The XC2S150E-5PQ208C delivers the performance, flexibility, and reliability that modern electronic systems demand while maintaining competitive pricing for high-volume production.
For engineers evaluating FPGA options, the XC2S150E-5PQ208C offers an optimal balance of capability and value, backed by AMD Xilinx’s decades of programmable logic expertise and commitment to long-term product support.
