The XC4036XLA-07HQ240C is a high-performance field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from Xilinx’s XC4000XLA family, now under AMD. Designed for cost-sensitive yet performance-demanding applications, this device offers 36,000 usable gates, a 240-pin HQFP package, and a –7 speed grade — making it an excellent choice for logic-intensive embedded designs, industrial control systems, and telecommunications equipment. If you are sourcing Xilinx FPGA components for your next project, understanding the full specification profile of this device is essential for confident procurement and design integration.

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What Is the XC4036XLA-07HQ240C?

The XC4036XLA-07HQ240C belongs to Xilinx’s XC4000XLA product line — an enhanced, low-voltage derivative of the classic XC4000 FPGA architecture. The “XLA” designation indicates the device operates at a core voltage of 3.3V, while the suffix breakdown tells you everything about the physical and electrical variant:

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Key Specifications at a Glance

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XC4036XLA-07HQ240C vs. Related Speed Grades

Designers often compare speed grade variants when selecting FPGAs for timing-critical paths. Below is a comparison of the XC4036XLA in the HQ240 package across available speed grades:

Note: A lower speed grade number (e.g., –7) indicates faster timing performance. The –07 suffix is the highest-performance variant of the XC4036XLA in this package.

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Architecture Overview: XC4000XLA Logic Block Structure

Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs)

Each CLB in the XC4000XLA contains:

• Two 4-input function generators (LUTs)
• One 3-input function generator for carry/arithmetic logic
• Two edge-triggered flip-flops with separate clock enable signals
• Carry logic for fast arithmetic chains

This architecture allows efficient implementation of both random logic and arithmetic-intensive functions such as counters, accumulators, and state machines.

Distributed RAM Capability

On-Chip Memory Using CLBs

The XC4036XLA supports SelectRAM™ — Xilinx’s distributed RAM feature where CLB LUTs are configured as small synchronous or asynchronous RAM blocks. This enables:

• 16×1 or 32×1 single-port RAM per CLB pair
• 16×1 dual-port RAM configurations
• Shift registers up to 16 bits deep

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I/O Characteristics and Pin Description

I/O Bank Specifications

Package Pin Map – HQFP 240

The 240-pin HQFP package features 60 pins per side in a 0.5mm pitch QFP format. Pin assignments are fixed for the HQ240 footprint, making PCB layout straightforward when migrating between speed grades of the same package.

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Configuration Methods

The XC4036XLA-07HQ240C is an SRAM-based FPGA, meaning the device must be configured each time power is applied. Configuration can be performed through multiple modes:

Configuration Bitstream Size: Approximately 2.1 Mbit for the XC4036XLA.

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Electrical Absolute Maximum Ratings

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DC Operating Conditions (Commercial Grade)

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Timing Specifications – Speed Grade –7

Timing values are indicative. Always refer to the official Xilinx XC4000XLA data sheet for guaranteed specifications.

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Thermal Characteristics – HQFP 240 Package

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Typical Applications for the XC4036XLA-07HQ240C

The XC4036XLA-07HQ240C is well-suited for a wide range of embedded and industrial applications:

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Ordering Information and Package Options

C suffix = Commercial temperature range (0°C to +85°C) I suffix = Industrial temperature range (–40°C to +100°C)

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Design Tools and Software Support

The XC4036XLA-07HQ240C is supported by Xilinx Foundation Series and ISE Design Suite tools. As a legacy device, it is supported up to ISE 14.7 (the final ISE release). Vivado does not support XC4000 series devices.

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Why Choose the XC4036XLA-07HQ240C?

• High gate density in a compact package – 36K gates in a standard 240-pin QFP footprint
• Fastest speed grade in its family – –7 grade delivers lowest propagation delays
• 5V-tolerant I/Os – Enables easy interfacing with legacy 5V logic families
• Proven architecture – XC4000 series has decades of field-proven reliability
• Multiple configuration modes – Flexible system integration options
• Distributed SelectRAM – On-chip memory without external SRAM for small data buffers

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between XC4036XLA-07HQ240C and XC4036XLA-09HQ240C? A: The only difference is the speed grade. The –07 variant is faster (lower propagation delays), while the –09 is a more commonly available, slightly slower version. Both have identical pinouts, package dimensions, and I/O counts.

Q: Is the XC4036XLA-07HQ240C RoHS compliant? A: Compliance status varies by date code and manufacturing lot. Always confirm with your distributor at the time of purchase for RoHS certification documentation.

Q: Can I replace an XC4036XL with an XC4036XLA? A: The XLA is the enhanced, pin-compatible successor to the XL. In most cases, the XLA is a drop-in replacement offering lower power consumption and equivalent or better performance.

Q: What PROM is compatible with this device for configuration? A: Common options include the Xilinx XC17S40, XC17S100, and Platform Flash XCF devices for serial configuration modes.

Q: Is the XC4036XLA-07HQ240C still in production? A: This is a legacy/end-of-life device. Stock availability depends on distributors and authorized resellers. It is recommended to check inventory early for long-term supply chain planning.

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Summary

The XC4036XLA-07HQ240C is a capable, field-proven FPGA offering 36,000 gates, 192 user I/Os, and the fastest –7 speed grade in a convenient 240-pin HQFP package. While classified as a legacy component, it remains highly relevant for system maintenance, reverse engineering, and cost-sensitive industrial applications. Its 3.3V core voltage with 5V-tolerant I/Os makes it versatile for mixed-voltage board environments, and its multiple configuration modes allow flexible integration into virtually any embedded architecture.

For engineers sourcing, designing with, or replacing XC4000XLA-series devices, this product guide provides the essential technical foundation for confident decision-making.