Product Overview: AMD XC2S600E-6FG456Q Field Programmable Gate Array
The XC2S600E-6FG456Q is a powerful Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from AMD’s (formerly Xilinx) Spartan-IIE family, designed to deliver exceptional performance for high-volume embedded applications. This automotive-grade FPGA chip combines 600,000 system gates with 15,552 logic cells in a compact 456-pin FBGA package, making it an ideal solution for digital signal processing, industrial control systems, and communication interfaces.
Built on advanced 0.15-micron technology, this Xilinx FPGA provides designers with a cost-effective alternative to traditional ASICs while maintaining the flexibility of field-programmable logic. The XC2S600E-6FG456Q supports unlimited in-system reprogrammability, allowing for design upgrades and modifications without hardware replacement.
Technical Specifications
Core Architecture Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Logic Elements/Cells |
15,552 |
| Number of LABs/CLBs |
3,456 |
| System Gates |
600,000 |
| Maximum Clock Frequency |
357 MHz |
| Total RAM Bits |
294,912 bits |
| Block RAM |
Up to 288K bits |
| Distributed RAM |
Up to 221,184 bits |
Electrical and Physical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Supply Voltage Range |
1.71V – 1.89V |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°C to 125°C (TJ) |
| Package Type |
456-FBGA (Fine Pitch BGA) |
| Package Dimensions |
23mm x 23mm |
| Number of I/O Pins |
329 |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
| Technology Node |
0.15µm |
Key Features and Benefits
Advanced FPGA Architecture
The XC2S600E-6FG456Q incorporates cutting-edge features derived from the Virtex-E architecture, providing designers with powerful capabilities for complex digital implementations:
- High Logic Density: With 15,552 logic cells organized in 3,456 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs), this FPGA handles demanding computational tasks efficiently
- Flexible Memory Options: Hierarchical SelectRAM architecture includes 16-bit LUT distributed RAM and configurable 4K-bit true dual-port block RAM
- DLL Technology: Four Delay-Locked Loops (DLLs) ensure precise clock management and timing control
- Multiple I/O Standards: Support for 19 selectable I/O standards enables seamless integration with various system components
Performance and Reliability
Operating at speeds up to 357 MHz, the XC2S600E-6FG456Q delivers exceptional performance for time-critical applications. The automotive-grade qualification (-40°C to 125°C junction temperature) ensures reliable operation in harsh industrial environments, making it suitable for:
- Automotive electronic control units
- Industrial automation systems
- Medical imaging equipment
- Telecommunications infrastructure
- Aerospace and defense applications
Cost-Effective ASIC Alternative
This Spartan-IIE FPGA offers significant advantages over traditional mask-programmed ASICs:
- Zero NRE Costs: Eliminate expensive mask sets and development fees
- Rapid Time-to-Market: Program and test designs immediately without fabrication delays
- Design Flexibility: Modify and upgrade systems in the field through reprogramming
- Risk Mitigation: Test and validate designs before committing to production volumes
Configuration and Programming Options
Supported Configuration Modes
| Mode |
Description |
Use Case |
| Master Serial |
Configuration from external serial PROM |
Stand-alone operation |
| Slave Serial |
Serial data from external controller |
System integration |
| Slave Parallel |
Parallel data interface |
High-speed configuration |
| Boundary Scan (JTAG) |
IEEE 1149.1 compliant |
Development and debugging |
Configuration Memory Options
The XC2S600E-6FG456Q configuration bitstream can be stored in:
- Platform Flash in-system programmable PROMs
- External serial flash memory
- Microcontroller or system processor
- JTAG programming tools for development
Application Areas and Use Cases
Digital Signal Processing (DSP)
The abundant logic resources and high-speed operation make the XC2S600E-6FG456Q ideal for implementing custom DSP algorithms:
- Adaptive filtering and equalization
- FFT and DFT computations
- Video and image processing pipelines
- Software-defined radio (SDR) applications
Embedded Systems and System-on-Chip (SoC)
Deploy complete embedded systems with:
- Custom processor implementations (soft-core CPUs)
- Peripheral interface controllers
- Memory management units
- Real-time control logic
Communication Interfaces
Implement high-speed communication protocols:
- Gigabit Ethernet MAC/PHY interfaces
- USB 2.0 device controllers
- PCI Express endpoints
- Custom serial communication protocols
Industrial Control Systems
Create reliable control systems for:
- Motor control and drive systems
- Programmable logic controllers (PLC)
- Factory automation equipment
- Process monitoring and control
Design Tools and Software Support
Compatible Development Environments
Designers working with the XC2S600E-6FG456Q can utilize industry-standard Xilinx development tools:
- ISE Design Suite: Legacy tool with full Spartan-IIE support for synthesis, implementation, and programming
- HDL Support: Full compatibility with VHDL and Verilog RTL design entry
- Simulation Tools: Integration with ModelSim, ISim, and other industry simulators
- Programming Tools: Xilinx Platform Cable USB, JTAG programmers, and iMPACT software
Design Flow Overview
- RTL Design Entry: Create digital logic using VHDL or Verilog
- Synthesis: Convert RTL code to gate-level netlist optimized for Spartan-IIE architecture
- Implementation: Place and route logic onto physical FPGA resources
- Timing Analysis: Verify design meets performance requirements
- Bitstream Generation: Create configuration file for FPGA programming
- Programming: Download bitstream via JTAG or configuration mode
Package Information and Pinout
456-FBGA Package Details
The fine-pitch Ball Grid Array package offers:
- Compact 23mm x 23mm footprint
- Excellent thermal performance
- 329 user I/O pins for maximum flexibility
- Dedicated configuration pins
- Multiple ground and power pins for clean signal integrity
Pin Categories
| Pin Type |
Count |
Function |
| User I/O |
329 |
Configurable input/output pins |
| Configuration |
Multiple |
Mode selection, JTAG, serial config |
| Power (VCCINT) |
Multiple |
Core voltage supply (1.8V) |
| Power (VCCO) |
Multiple |
I/O voltage supply (configurable) |
| Ground |
Multiple |
Signal and power return paths |
Comparison with Related Spartan-IIE Devices
| Device |
Logic Cells |
System Gates |
Block RAM |
I/O Pins |
| XC2S200E |
5,292 |
200,000 |
56K bits |
182-329 |
| XC2S400E |
11,088 |
400,000 |
144K bits |
182-329 |
| XC2S600E |
15,552 |
600,000 |
288K bits |
329 |
The XC2S600E-6FG456Q represents the highest density offering in the enhanced Spartan-II family, providing maximum logic resources while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Quality and Compliance
Industry Certifications
- Automotive Grade: Qualified for automotive applications with extended temperature range
- RoHS Compliant: Meets environmental standards for lead-free manufacturing
- Quality Assurance: Manufactured in ISO-certified facilities with rigorous testing protocols
Reliability Specifications
The XC2S600E-6FG456Q undergoes comprehensive reliability testing including:
- High-temperature operating life (HTOL) testing
- Temperature cycling verification
- Moisture sensitivity level classification
- Electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection validation
Purchasing Information and Availability
Product Status and Sourcing
Note: The XC2S600E-6FG456Q is classified as an obsolete product per AMD’s product change notice. However, inventory remains available through authorized distributors and specialized electronic component suppliers.
Part Number Decoding
XC2S600E-6FG456Q:
- XC: Xilinx (now AMD) product prefix
- 2S: Spartan-II family
- 600E: Enhanced 600K gate version
- 6: Speed grade (-6 is fastest commercial grade)
- FG456: Fine-pitch BGA, 456 pins
- Q: Automotive temperature grade qualifier
Recommended Alternatives
For new designs, consider these modern FPGA alternatives:
- AMD Artix-7 family (higher performance, more features)
- AMD Spartan-7 family (pin-compatible upgrades available)
- Low-cost alternatives from AMD’s current product portfolio
Development Resources and Support
Technical Documentation
Access comprehensive design resources:
- Official datasheet (DS077) with complete electrical specifications
- Application notes covering configuration, design guidelines, and best practices
- Reference designs and IP cores
- PCB layout guidelines for 456-FBGA package
Community and Technical Support
- Xilinx/AMD technical forums and community support
- Application engineering assistance for complex designs
- Training materials and video tutorials
- Design service partners and consultants
Conclusion: Why Choose the XC2S600E-6FG456Q
The XC2S600E-6FG456Q Spartan-IIE FPGA remains a proven solution for cost-sensitive applications requiring substantial logic resources and reliable performance. Its combination of 600,000 system gates, automotive-grade qualification, and flexible configuration options makes it suitable for diverse applications across automotive, industrial, telecommunications, and consumer electronics sectors.
Whether you’re implementing custom digital signal processing algorithms, developing embedded control systems, or prototyping communication interfaces, this Xilinx FPGA delivers the performance, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness needed for successful product deployment.
For current availability, pricing, and technical support, contact authorized AMD/Xilinx distributors or specialized FPGA component suppliers who maintain inventory of legacy programmable logic devices.
