The XC18V512VQ44I is a high-performance 512Kbit In-System Programmable (ISP) Configuration PROM manufactured by AMD (formerly Xilinx). This industrial-grade memory device delivers reliable FPGA configuration storage in a compact 44-pin VQFP package. Engineers and designers trust the XC18V512VQ44I for embedded systems, telecommunications equipment, and industrial automation applications requiring robust non-volatile configuration memory.
XC18V512VQ44I Key Features and Benefits
The XC18V512VQ44I belongs to the XC18V00 series of configuration PROMs, designed specifically for storing and loading Xilinx FPGA bitstreams. This device combines advanced CMOS NOR flash technology with comprehensive in-system programmability, making it ideal for field-upgradable designs.
Why Choose XC18V512VQ44I for Your Design?
This configuration PROM offers several advantages for hardware engineers. The device supports multiple configuration modes including Master Serial, Slave Serial, and Slave Parallel (SelectMAP) interfaces. The industrial temperature range ensures reliable operation in harsh environments, while the low-power design minimizes system power consumption.
XC18V512VQ44I Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC18V512VQ44I |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (Xilinx) |
| Memory Density |
512 Kbit |
| Supply Voltage |
3.3V |
| Package Type |
44-Pin VQFP (Very Thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°C to +85°C (Industrial) |
| Technology |
CMOS NOR Flash |
| Program/Erase Cycles |
20,000 Cycles Minimum |
XC18V512VQ44I Electrical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Min |
Typ |
Max |
Unit |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) |
3.0 |
3.3 |
3.6 |
V |
| Input High Voltage (VIH) |
2.0 |
– |
VCC + 0.5 |
V |
| Input Low Voltage (VIL) |
-0.5 |
– |
0.8 |
V |
| Output High Voltage (VOH) |
2.4 |
– |
– |
V |
| Output Low Voltage (VOL) |
– |
– |
0.4 |
V |
| Standby Current (ICC) |
– |
– |
10 |
mA |
XC18V512VQ44I Configuration Interface Options
Serial Configuration Mode
The XC18V512VQ44I supports both Master and Slave serial configuration modes. In Master Serial mode, the FPGA generates the configuration clock that drives the PROM. Data becomes available on the DATA (D0) pin after a short access time when CE and OE are enabled.
Parallel Configuration Mode
For faster configuration speeds, the XC18V512VQ44I provides Slave Parallel (SelectMAP) mode. This interface utilizes all eight data pins (D0-D7) for parallel data transfer, significantly reducing FPGA boot time compared to serial modes.
XC18V512VQ44I Pin Configuration
| Pin Name |
Pin Type |
Description |
| VCC |
Power |
3.3V Power Supply |
| GND |
Ground |
Ground Connection |
| CLK |
Input |
Configuration Clock Input |
| CE |
Input |
Chip Enable (Active Low) |
| OE/RESET |
Input |
Output Enable / Reset |
| CEO |
Output |
Chip Enable Output (Cascade) |
| CF |
Output |
Configuration Done Flag |
| D[7:0] |
Output |
Configuration Data Output |
| TDI |
Input |
JTAG Test Data Input |
| TDO |
Output |
JTAG Test Data Output |
| TMS |
Input |
JTAG Test Mode Select |
| TCK |
Input |
JTAG Test Clock |
IEEE 1149.1 JTAG Boundary-Scan Support
The XC18V512VQ44I is fully compliant with IEEE Standard 1149.1 Boundary-Scan architecture. This feature enables in-system programming via JTAG interface, simplifying production testing and field updates. The JTAG interface supports standard instructions including BYPASS, EXTEST, SAMPLE/PRELOAD, and device-specific programming commands.
XC18V512VQ44I Ordering Information
| Part Number |
Temperature Range |
Package |
Pins |
| XC18V512VQ44I |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
VQFP |
44 |
| XC18V512VQ44C |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
VQFP |
44 |
| XC18V512PC20I |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
PLCC |
20 |
| XC18V512SO20I |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
SOIC |
20 |
Compatible FPGA Families
The XC18V512VQ44I provides configuration memory for various Xilinx FPGA families including:
- Spartan-II and Spartan-IIE Series
- Virtex and Virtex-E Series
- Spartan-3 Series (smaller devices)
- Legacy Spartan and Spartan-XL devices
XC18V512VQ44I Application Areas
This industrial-grade configuration PROM is ideal for applications requiring reliable FPGA configuration in demanding environments:
- Telecommunications Equipment: Base stations, network switches, and routers
- Industrial Automation: PLCs, motor controllers, and process control systems
- Medical Devices: Diagnostic equipment and patient monitoring systems
- Automotive Electronics: ADAS systems and infotainment units
- Aerospace and Defense: Avionics and ruggedized computing systems
- Test and Measurement: Oscilloscopes and signal analyzers
Cascading Multiple XC18V512VQ44I Devices
For larger FPGA configurations exceeding 512Kbit, multiple XC18V512VQ44I devices can be cascaded. The CEO (Chip Enable Output) pin drives the CE input of subsequent devices in the chain. All clock inputs and data outputs are interconnected, enabling seamless multi-device configurations.
Design Resources and Documentation
Engineers can access comprehensive design support for the XC18V512VQ44I through AMD’s design tools and documentation:
- Datasheet: DS026 – XC18V00 Series Configuration PROMs
- Programming Software: Xilinx ISE Design Suite and Vivado (legacy support)
- Programming Hardware: Platform Cable USB II, Parallel Cable IV
Conclusion
The XC18V512VQ44I delivers proven reliability and performance for FPGA configuration applications. With its industrial temperature rating, flexible configuration interfaces, and robust JTAG support, this 512Kbit configuration PROM remains a trusted solution for embedded system designers worldwide. Whether you’re developing telecommunications infrastructure, industrial controls, or medical devices, the XC18V512VQ44I provides the non-volatile configuration storage your FPGA designs require.
