Overview of XC5215-HQ208 FPGA
The XC5215-HQ208 is a powerful Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the renowned Xilinx FPGA XC5200 family, designed to deliver exceptional programmable logic performance for complex digital applications. This SRAM-based reprogrammable FPGA offers designers unparalleled flexibility and cost-effectiveness for embedded systems, industrial control, telecommunications, and digital signal processing applications.
Key Features and Specifications
Core Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Logic Cells |
1,936 cells |
| Gate Count |
23,000 equivalent gates |
| Process Technology |
0.5µm three-layer metal CMOS |
| Operating Voltage |
5V |
| Maximum Frequency |
83MHz |
| Package Type |
HQ208 (208-pin PQFP) |
| I/O Pins |
Up to 244 I/O signals |
| Speed Grade |
-6 (commercial grade) |
Advanced Architecture Features
The XC5215-HQ208 FPGA incorporates several innovative technologies:
| Feature |
Benefit |
| VersaBlock™ Logic Module |
Enhanced design flexibility and optimized logic utilization |
| VersaRing I/O Interface |
High logic cell to I/O ratio with superior signal integrity |
| SRAM-Based Configuration |
Unlimited reprogrammability for design iterations |
| Rich Interconnect Hierarchy |
Reduced routing congestion and improved performance |
| Programmable Slew-Rate Control |
Minimized noise and optimized signal transitions |
| Zero Hold Time |
Simplified system timing for input registers |
Package and Pin Configuration
HQ208 Package Details
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Package Type |
Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) |
| Total Pins |
208 |
| Body Size |
28mm x 28mm (typical) |
| Lead Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to +70°C (Commercial) |
Performance Characteristics
Timing and Speed Specifications
The XC5215-6HQ208 delivers robust performance across various operating conditions:
| Timing Parameter |
Value |
| System Clock Frequency |
Up to 83MHz |
| CLB-to-CLB Delay |
Optimized for fast logic paths |
| Input Setup Time |
Minimized for synchronous designs |
| Output Delay |
Low propagation delay |
| Clock-to-Output |
Fast edge transitions |
Applications and Use Cases
Target Industries
- Industrial Automation: PLC controllers, motor control, process monitoring
- Telecommunications: Digital signal processing, protocol conversion
- Embedded Systems: Custom logic implementation, system controllers
- Medical Electronics: Diagnostic equipment, imaging systems
- Test and Measurement: Logic analyzers, pattern generators
Design Support and Development Tools
Compatible Design Software
| Tool Category |
Supported Tools |
| Design Entry |
ABEL, Schematic Capture, VHDL, Verilog HDL |
| Synthesis |
Industry-standard synthesis tools |
| Implementation |
Xilinx ISE Design Suite |
| Simulation |
VHDL/Verilog simulators |
| Programming |
Xilinx iMPACT, JTAG programmers |
Development Workflow
The XC5215-HQ208 is fully supported through the Xilinx software environment on both PC and workstation platforms, enabling seamless integration into existing design workflows.
Comparison with Similar FPGA Devices
XC5200 Family Comparison
| Device |
Logic Cells |
Gates |
I/O Pins |
Package Options |
| XC5202 |
256 |
3,000 |
64-84 |
PC84, VQ100 |
| XC5204 |
484 |
6,000 |
84-160 |
PC84, PQ160 |
| XC5206 |
729 |
9,000 |
100-208 |
VQ100, PQ208 |
| XC5210 |
1,296 |
15,000 |
144-240 |
TQ144, PQ240 |
| XC5215 |
1,936 |
23,000 |
160-304 |
HQ208, PQ160, BG352 |
Ordering Information and Part Numbers
Standard Part Number Breakdown
XC5215-6HQ208 decodes as:
- XC5215: Device family and size
- -6: Speed grade (commercial temperature range)
- HQ208: Package type (208-pin PQFP)
Related Part Numbers
- XC5215-6HQ208I: Industrial temperature range (-40°C to +100°C)
- XC5215-6HQ208C: Commercial with enhanced features
- XC5215-5HQ208: Speed grade 5 variant
Technical Advantages
Why Choose XC5215-HQ208?
- Cost-Effective Solution: Optimal balance between logic capacity and price
- Proven Architecture: Based on Xilinx’s successful FPGA heritage
- Flexible I/O Options: 208-pin package provides abundant connectivity
- Register-Rich Design: Ideal for synchronous digital systems
- Industry-Standard Tools: Compatible with widely-used design software
Programming and Configuration
Configuration Methods
| Method |
Description |
| Master Serial |
Direct FPGA configuration from PROM |
| Slave Serial |
Microprocessor-based configuration |
| Boundary Scan (JTAG) |
IEEE 1149.1 compliant programming |
| Express Mode |
Fast configuration for quick system startup |
Configuration Memory Requirements
The XC5215-HQ208 requires approximately 150-200 Kbits of configuration data, depending on design complexity and options selected.
Quality and Reliability
Manufacturing Standards
- Process Node: 0.5µm CMOS technology
- RoHS Compliance: Available in lead-free versions
- Quality Standards: Meets automotive and industrial standards
- Reliability Testing: Extensive qualification and characterization
Conclusion
The XC5215-HQ208 FPGA represents an excellent choice for designers seeking a balance of logic capacity, I/O resources, and cost-effectiveness. As part of the proven XC5200 family, this device offers reliable performance, comprehensive tool support, and flexible implementation options for a wide range of digital design applications.
Whether you’re developing industrial control systems, telecommunications equipment, or custom embedded solutions, the XC5215-6HQ208 provides the programmable logic resources and performance characteristics needed for successful product development.