The XC4013XLA-9PQ208C is a high-performance Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from Xilinx’s XC4000XLA family. Designed for engineers who need a proven, cost-effective logic solution, this 13K-gate device delivers 227 MHz performance in an industry-standard 208-pin PQFP package. Whether you are maintaining legacy systems or evaluating components for industrial automation, this guide covers everything you need to know about the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C.
What Is the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C?
The XC4013XLA-9PQ208C is a 3.3V FPGA manufactured by Xilinx (now AMD-Xilinx) as part of the XC4000XLA/XV series. It integrates 1,368 logic cells capable of implementing approximately 13,000 equivalent gates. Built on a 0.35µm CMOS process node, it combines architectural versatility, abundant routing resources, and high-speed operation — making it a reliable choice for complex, high-density digital designs.
For a broader overview of programmable logic solutions, visit our Xilinx FPGA product catalog.
XC4013XLA-9PQ208C Key Specifications
The table below summarizes the essential electrical and physical specifications of the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C.
| Parameter |
Value |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD-Xilinx) |
| Part Number |
XC4013XLA-9PQ208C |
| Family |
XC4000XLA |
| Number of Gates |
13,000 (13K) |
| Logic Cells |
1,368 |
| Maximum Frequency |
227 MHz |
| Supply Voltage |
3.3V |
| Process Technology |
0.35µm CMOS |
| Package Type |
PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Package) |
| Pin Count |
208 Pins |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to +85°C (Commercial) |
| RoHS Compliance |
Not Compliant |
| Status |
Not Recommended for New Designs (NRND) |
XC4013XLA-9PQ208C Part Number Decoder
Understanding the Xilinx part numbering convention helps engineers confirm they are ordering the correct variant.
| Segment |
Meaning |
| XC |
Xilinx Commercial Product |
| 4013 |
XC4000 Series, 13K Gate Count |
| XLA |
XC4000XLA Sub-family (Enhanced Low-Power) |
| -9 |
Speed Grade –9 (9 ns Clock-to-Output) |
| PQ208 |
208-Pin PQFP Package |
| C |
Commercial Temperature Range (0°C to +85°C) |
Note: The suffix “I” (e.g., XC4013XLA-9PQ208I) denotes the Industrial temperature grade (–40°C to +100°C). Verify the suffix carefully before placing an order.
XC4013XLA-9PQ208C Electrical Characteristics
Absolute Maximum Ratings
| Parameter |
Min |
Max |
Unit |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) |
–0.5 |
4.0 |
V |
| Input Voltage |
–0.5 |
VCC + 0.5 |
V |
| Storage Temperature |
–65 |
+150 |
°C |
| Junction Temperature |
— |
+125 |
°C |
DC Operating Conditions
| Parameter |
Min |
Typical |
Max |
Unit |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) |
3.135 |
3.3 |
3.465 |
V |
| Input High Voltage (VIH) |
2.0 |
— |
VCC |
V |
| Input Low Voltage (VIL) |
0 |
— |
0.8 |
V |
| Output High Current (IOH) |
— |
— |
–12 |
mA |
| Output Low Current (IOL) |
— |
— |
12 |
mA |
XC4013XLA-9PQ208C Package Dimensions: 208-Pin PQFP
The 208-pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Package) is a surface-mount package widely used in high-density PCB designs.
| Package Attribute |
Detail |
| Package Type |
PQFP (Quad Flat Package) |
| Total Pin Count |
208 |
| Body Size (Nominal) |
28 mm × 28 mm |
| Lead Pitch |
0.5 mm |
| Lead Count per Side |
52 |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount (SMD) |
| Height (Max) |
3.4 mm |
XC4013XLA Architecture Overview
XC4000XLA Logic Cell Structure
Each of the 1,368 logic cells in the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C contains:
- Two 4-input Function Generators — each can independently implement any Boolean function of up to 4 inputs
- One 3-input Function Generator — for additional combinatorial logic
- Carry and Control Logic — dedicated fast-carry chain for arithmetic operations
- Two Edge-Triggered D Flip-Flops — individually configurable with set, reset, and clock enable
Routing Architecture
The XC4000XLA family features a hierarchical routing structure:
- Single-Length Lines — for short, local connections
- Double-Length Lines — for medium-range routing
- Long Lines — for global, low-skew signal distribution
- Global Clock Buffers — dedicated low-skew clock distribution networks
I/O Features
- Programmable output drive strength
- Slew-rate control (fast / slow)
- On-chip pull-up and pull-down resistors
- 5V-tolerant I/O pins (in 3.3V XLA family)
XC4013XLA-9PQ208C vs. Related Variants
Engineers often need to compare the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C against closely related parts. The table below highlights the key differences.
| Part Number |
Gates |
Speed Grade |
Package |
Pins |
Temp Range |
| XC4013XLA-9PQ208C |
13K |
–9 |
PQFP |
208 |
Commercial |
| XC4013XLA-9PQ208I |
13K |
–9 |
PQFP |
208 |
Industrial |
| XC4013XLA-7PQ208C |
13K |
–7 (Faster) |
PQFP |
208 |
Commercial |
| XC4013XLA-9BG256C |
13K |
–9 |
BGA |
256 |
Commercial |
| XC4013XLA-9PQ240C |
13K |
–9 |
PQFP |
240 |
Commercial |
| XC4010XLA-9PQ208C |
10K |
–9 |
PQFP |
208 |
Commercial |
Tip: The lower the speed grade number (e.g., –7 vs –9), the faster the device. A speed grade of –7 offers shorter propagation delays than –9.
Typical Applications of the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C
Despite its NRND status, the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C remains in active use across multiple industries, particularly in long-lifecycle equipment.
Industrial Automation and Control
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
- Motor control interfaces
- Sensor data acquisition systems
Telecommunications Equipment
- Protocol conversion bridges
- Signal conditioning and multiplexing
- Legacy line-card logic replacement
Defense and Aerospace (Legacy Programs)
- Radar signal processing
- Avionics data bus interfaces
- Mission-critical legacy system maintenance
Test and Measurement
- Automated Test Equipment (ATE)
- Logic analyzers and pattern generators
- Instrument control planes
Embedded Computing
- Custom bus interface logic
- Memory controllers for SRAM and SDRAM
- Co-processor acceleration
How to Program the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C
Supported Design Tools
The XC4013XLA-9PQ208C is compatible with Xilinx legacy software tools:
| Tool |
Version |
Notes |
| Xilinx Foundation Series |
3.x / 4.x |
Primary design suite for XC4000 series |
| Xilinx ISE Design Suite |
Up to 14.7 |
Last ISE version; supports XC4000XLA |
| ModelSim |
Various |
Simulation of VHDL/Verilog designs |
| Synopsys FPGA Express |
Legacy |
For synthesis targeting XC4000XLA |
Important: Xilinx Vivado does not support the XC4000XLA family. Use ISE 14.7 (the last supported version) or Foundation Series software.
Configuration Methods
The XC4013XLA-9PQ208C supports three primary configuration modes:
- Master Serial Mode — Device loads bitstream from an external serial PROM
- Slave Serial Mode — An external microprocessor or device drives configuration
- Peripheral / Slave Parallel Mode — Byte-wide parallel configuration for faster load times
Sourcing and Availability
Because the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C is marked Not Recommended for New Designs (NRND), it is no longer in active production. Procurement is possible through:
| Source Type |
Examples |
Notes |
| Authorized Distributors |
Mouser, DigiKey, Arrow |
Limited stock; may have long lead times |
| Specialty Distributors |
Rochester Electronics |
Specializes in lifecycle and EOL components |
| Excess Inventory Brokers |
Various |
Verify authenticity carefully |
| PCB / Legacy Repair Services |
Component refurbishers |
For removed / tested pulls |
Always purchase from trusted, authorized sources and verify authenticity through testing. Counterfeit FPGAs are a known risk in the secondary market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does NRND mean for the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C?
NRND stands for Not Recommended for New Designs. Xilinx has discontinued active promotion of this part for new design starts. It remains available for legacy system maintenance, but engineers starting new projects should consider modern Xilinx devices such as the Artix-7 or Spartan-7 families.
Is the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C RoHS compliant?
No. The XC4013XLA-9PQ208C is not RoHS compliant, which is common for older devices manufactured before RoHS directives came into effect. For RoHS-compliant applications, consider a modern replacement FPGA.
What is the difference between XC4013XLA-9PQ208C and XC4013XLA-9PQ208I?
The only difference is the operating temperature range. The “C” suffix is the Commercial grade (0°C to +85°C), while the “I” suffix is the Industrial grade (–40°C to +100°C). All other specifications are identical.
Can I use Xilinx Vivado to program the XC4013XLA-9PQ208C?
No. Vivado does not support the XC4000XLA device family. You must use Xilinx ISE 14.7 or the legacy Foundation Series software for design implementation and bitstream generation.
What is the configuration bitstream size for the XC4013XLA?
The XC4013XLA requires a configuration bitstream of approximately 233,600 bits (roughly 29 KB) to fully configure the device.
Summary
The XC4013XLA-9PQ208C is a field-proven 13K-gate FPGA from Xilinx’s XC4000XLA family, offering 227 MHz operation, 3.3V supply, and 1,368 logic cells in a 208-pin PQFP package. While marked NRND and not suitable for new designs, it remains an essential component for legacy system maintenance, industrial automation, and long-lifecycle defense or telecom equipment. When sourcing this part, always work with reputable distributors and verify device authenticity.
