Overview: High-Performance Field Programmable Gate Array
The XC5215-5HQ304C0359 is a professional-grade field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from the renowned XC5200 family, manufactured by Xilinx (now AMD). This robust FPGA delivers exceptional programmable logic capabilities for complex digital design applications, making it an ideal choice for engineers seeking reliable, cost-effective solutions for embedded systems and digital signal processing.
Key Product Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Part Number |
XC5215-5HQ304C0359 |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (Rochester Electronics LLC) |
| Product Family |
XC5200 Series FPGA |
| Logic Cells |
1,936 cells |
| Gate Count |
23,000 gates |
| Operating Frequency |
83 MHz |
| Technology |
0.5µm three-layer metal CMOS |
| Supply Voltage |
5V |
| Package Type |
304-Pin HQFP (Heat-sink Quad Flat Pack) |
| Operating Temperature |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
Technical Features and Architecture
Advanced VersaBlock Logic Module
The XC5215-5HQ304C0359 incorporates Xilinx’s innovative VersaBlock logic module architecture, providing designers with exceptional flexibility for implementing complex digital circuits. This architecture enables efficient resource utilization and simplified timing closure for demanding applications.
VersaRing I/O Interface Technology
The integrated VersaRing I/O interface delivers a superior logic cell-to-I/O ratio, supporting up to 244 I/O signals. This advanced interface technology includes:
- Programmable output slew-rate control for optimized performance
- Reduced electromagnetic interference (EMI)
- Zero flip-flop hold time for input registers
- Simplified system timing design
Performance Specifications Table
| Parameter |
Value |
Notes |
| Maximum Operating Frequency |
83 MHz |
Speed grade -5 |
| Logic Cells Available |
1,936 |
Configurable logic blocks |
| Total Gate Count |
23,000 gates |
System gate equivalent |
| User I/O Pins |
Up to 244 |
Package dependent |
| Process Technology |
0.5µm CMOS |
Three-layer metal |
| Core Voltage |
5V |
Standard operating voltage |
| Power Consumption |
Low |
SRAM-based architecture |
Application Areas and Use Cases
Industrial Control Systems
The XC5215-5HQ304C0359 excels in industrial automation applications where reliable, reprogrammable logic is essential. Common implementations include:
- Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Motor control systems
- Industrial communication interfaces
- Process control equipment
Digital Signal Processing
This Xilinx FPGA provides excellent performance for DSP applications requiring parallel processing capabilities:
- Real-time signal filtering
- Digital communication systems
- Audio/video processing
- Data acquisition systems
Embedded System Development
Engineers leverage the XC5215-5HQ304C0359 for prototyping and production embedded systems:
- Custom peripheral interfaces
- System-on-chip (SoC) designs
- Hardware acceleration modules
- Legacy system upgrades
Design and Development Support
Compatible Design Tools
| Tool Category |
Supported Software |
| Design Entry |
Schematic capture, ABEL, VHDL, Verilog HDL |
| Synthesis |
Xilinx ISE Design Suite |
| Implementation |
XACTstep timing calculator |
| Simulation |
ModelSim, industry-standard simulators |
| Platform Support |
Windows workstations, Linux systems |
Programming and Configuration
The SRAM-based reprogrammable architecture enables unlimited design iterations during development. The device supports multiple configuration modes for flexible system integration.
Package and Pinout Information
HQ304 Package Characteristics
| Package Feature |
Specification |
| Package Type |
304-pin HQFP (Heat-sink Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Pitch |
0.5mm (industry standard) |
| Body Size |
Compact surface-mount footprint |
| Thermal Performance |
Enhanced heat dissipation capability |
| Lead Finish |
Standard IC package finish |
| Moisture Sensitivity |
MSL-3 (industry standard) |
Ordering and Availability Information
Product Variations and Speed Grades
| Part Number Variant |
Speed Grade |
Temperature Range |
| XC5215-5HQ304C0359 |
-5 (83 MHz) |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| XC5215-6HQ304C |
-6 (Faster) |
Commercial grade |
| XC5215-5HQ304I |
-5 |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
Package Options Comparison
The XC5215 series is available in multiple package configurations to suit different PCB layout requirements:
- HQ208: 208-pin HQFP – Compact design
- HQ240: 240-pin HQFP – Medium I/O count
- HQ304: 304-pin HQFP – Maximum I/O capability
- PQ160: 160-pin PQFP – Alternative package style
- BG352: 352-pin BGA – High-density applications
Manufacturing and Quality
Process Technology Details
| Technology Aspect |
Specification |
| Fabrication Process |
0.5 micron CMOS |
| Metal Layers |
Three-layer interconnect |
| Cell Architecture |
SRAM-based configuration |
| Reprogrammability |
Unlimited reconfiguration cycles |
| Data Retention |
SRAM with external configuration memory |
Quality and Reliability
Rochester Electronics LLC maintains the XC5215-5HQ304C0359 to original Xilinx specifications, ensuring:
- Consistent electrical performance
- Long-term product availability
- Full functionality compliance
- Industry-standard reliability testing
Competitive Advantages
Why Choose XC5215-5HQ304C0359?
- Proven Architecture: Based on Xilinx’s successful XC5200 FPGA family with extensive field deployment
- Design Flexibility: SRAM-based architecture allows unlimited design iterations
- Rich Feature Set: VersaBlock and VersaRing technologies provide advanced capabilities
- Extensive I/O: Up to 244 user I/O pins support complex system interfaces
- Tool Support: Compatible with industry-standard design tools and workflows
- Cost-Effective: Balanced performance and pricing for production applications
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation and Design Resources
Engineers working with the XC5215-5HQ304C0359 can access comprehensive technical documentation:
- Detailed datasheet with electrical specifications
- Application notes for design optimization
- Reference designs and example projects
- Timing analysis tools and guidelines
- PCB layout recommendations
Development Tools and Software
The FPGA is fully supported by Xilinx development software:
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite for synthesis and implementation
- XACTstep for timing analysis and optimization
- ChipScope for in-system debugging
- Impact for device programming
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between speed grades?
Speed grades indicate the maximum operating frequency. The “-5” speed grade in XC5215-5HQ304C0359 operates at 83 MHz, while “-6” grades offer higher performance.
Can this FPGA be used in new designs?
While the XC5200 family is considered mature technology, it remains suitable for cost-sensitive applications and legacy system maintenance. For new high-performance designs, consider newer Xilinx families.
What configuration methods are supported?
The device supports multiple configuration modes including serial, parallel, and master/slave configurations using external PROM or microcontroller.
Is the device RoHS compliant?
Availability varies by supplier. Check with your distributor for current RoHS compliance status for specific production lots.
Conclusion: Reliable FPGA for Professional Applications
The XC5215-5HQ304C0359 represents a proven solution for engineers requiring dependable programmable logic with extensive I/O capabilities. Its combination of 23,000 gates, 1,936 logic cells, and 304-pin package makes it suitable for a wide range of digital design applications, from industrial control to embedded systems development.
Whether you’re maintaining existing designs or developing new cost-effective solutions, this Xilinx FPGA offers the performance, flexibility, and tool support needed for successful project implementation.
