The XC2C512-7FT256I is a high-performance Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) from AMD’s Xilinx CoolRunner-II family. This industrial-grade CPLD delivers exceptional speed at 7.1ns pin-to-pin propagation delay while consuming ultra-low power. Designed for demanding applications requiring instant-on operation and non-volatile storage, the XC2C512-7FT256I is ideal for communication equipment, portable devices, and industrial control systems.
XC2C512-7FT256I Key Features and Benefits
The CoolRunner-II XC2C512-7FT256I combines high-speed performance with industry-leading power efficiency. This makes it perfect for designs where both processing speed and battery life matter.
Ultra-Low Power Consumption
One of the standout features of the XC2C512-7FT256I is its exceptional power efficiency. The device achieves a quiescent current of only 14μA, making it one of the lowest-power CPLDs available. Additionally, the standby power consumption is just 28.8μW. These characteristics make this CPLD an excellent choice for battery-powered applications.
High-Speed Performance
Despite its low power consumption, the XC2C512-7FT256I delivers impressive performance. The device offers a maximum system frequency of 179MHz with pin-to-pin delays as fast as 7.1 nanoseconds. This combination of speed and efficiency is made possible by Xilinx’s advanced 0.18μm CMOS technology.
Advanced System Features
The XC2C512-7FT256I includes several advanced features that simplify design implementation:
- DataGATE Technology: Controls input signal switching to reduce dynamic power
- CoolCLOCK Technology: Combines clock gating with frequency division for power savings
- DualEDGE Flip-Flops: Enables high-performance operation with lower clock frequencies
- Clock Divider: Divides external clock by 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, or 16
XC2C512-7FT256I Technical Specifications
Core Architecture Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Device Family |
CoolRunner-II |
| Number of Macrocells |
512 |
| Number of System Gates |
12,000 |
| Number of Function Blocks |
32 |
| PLA Configuration |
40 x 56 Product Terms per Block |
| Macrocells per Function Block |
16 |
| Process Technology |
0.18μm CMOS |
Electrical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Core Supply Voltage (VCCINT) |
1.8V |
| I/O Voltage Range (VCCIO) |
1.5V to 3.3V |
| Quiescent Current |
14μA (typical) |
| Standby Power |
28.8μW |
| Maximum System Frequency |
179MHz |
| Pin-to-Pin Delay (tpd) |
7.1ns maximum |
Package and Physical Information
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Package Type |
256-Ball FTBGA (Fine-Pitch BGA) |
| Package Dimensions |
17mm × 17mm |
| Ball Pitch |
1.0mm |
| Number of User I/O Pins |
212 |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
Operating Conditions
| Parameter |
Range |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°C to +85°C (Industrial Grade) |
| Temperature Grade |
I (Industrial) |
| Storage Temperature |
-65°C to +150°C |
XC2C512-7FT256I I/O Capabilities and Interface Support
The XC2C512-7FT256I provides comprehensive I/O flexibility to interface with various logic standards and voltage levels.
Multi-Voltage I/O Support
The device supports multiple I/O voltage standards, enabling seamless integration with different system components:
| I/O Standard |
Supported |
| LVCMOS 1.5V |
Yes |
| LVCMOS 1.8V |
Yes |
| LVCMOS 2.5V |
Yes |
| LVCMOS 3.3V |
Yes |
| SSTL2-1 |
Yes |
| SSTL3-1 |
Yes |
| HSTL-1 |
Yes |
Advanced I/O Features
The XC2C512-7FT256I offers numerous I/O configuration options:
- Four Independent I/O Banks: Each bank can operate at different voltage levels
- Schmitt-Trigger Inputs: Optional on a per-pin basis for noise immunity
- Open-Drain Outputs: Available for Wired-OR configurations and LED driving
- Bus-Hold Circuitry: Maintains last state when pins are floating
- Weak Pull-Up Resistors: Configurable on selected I/O pins
- Programmable Grounds: Available on unused I/Os for EMI reduction
- Slew Rate Control: Adjustable output slew rates
XC2C512-7FT256I Programming and Configuration
In-System Programming (ISP)
The XC2C512-7FT256I supports industry-standard programming interfaces for flexible configuration:
| Programming Feature |
Specification |
| Programming Interface |
JTAG (IEEE 1532) |
| Boundary Scan |
IEEE 1149.1 compliant |
| Programming Voltage |
1.8V ISP |
| On-The-Fly Programming |
Supported |
| Hot Pluggable |
Yes |
| Power Sequencing Tolerance |
Any sequence supported |
Non-Volatile Configuration
As a CPLD, the XC2C512-7FT256I stores its configuration in non-volatile memory. This provides instant-on capability without requiring external configuration memory. The device is ready to operate immediately upon power-up.
Design Security
The XC2C512-7FT256I includes advanced design security features to protect intellectual property. The security implementation prevents unauthorized readback of the programmed configuration.
XC2C512-7FT256I Applications and Use Cases
The XC2C512-7FT256I CPLD is suitable for a wide range of applications across multiple industries.
Communication Equipment
The device’s combination of high speed and low power makes it ideal for:
- Network routers and switches
- Wireless communication systems
- Telecommunications infrastructure
- Protocol conversion interfaces
Portable and Battery-Powered Devices
Ultra-low power consumption enables extended battery life in:
- Handheld instrumentation
- Medical monitoring devices
- Personal digital assistants
- Wearable technology
- IoT sensor nodes
Industrial Control Systems
The industrial temperature range and robust design support:
- Factory automation controllers
- Motor drive systems
- Process control equipment
- Sensor interface modules
Consumer Electronics
The XC2C512-7FT256I serves various consumer applications:
- Digital cameras
- Audio equipment
- Video processing systems
- Smart home devices
XC2C512-7FT256I Architecture Overview
Function Block Structure
The XC2C512-7FT256I contains 32 Function Blocks, each featuring:
- 40 × 56 Product Term PLA (Programmable Logic Array)
- 16 macrocells with flexible configuration options
- Local clock signals with product term generation
- Synchronous clock-enable controls
- Asynchronous set/reset capabilities
Advanced Interconnect Matrix (AIM)
The low-power Advanced Interconnect Matrix connects all Function Blocks efficiently. The AIM feeds 40 true and complement inputs to each Function Block, ensuring high routability while minimizing power consumption.
Macrocell Configuration
Each macrocell in the XC2C512-7FT256I can be configured as:
- D flip-flop
- T flip-flop
- D latch
- Combinational output
Registers support global reset/preset and multiple clock options including global clocks and local product term clocks.
XC2C512-7FT256I Development Tools and Software Support
Design Entry Options
The XC2C512-7FT256I is supported by Xilinx ISE WebPACK software, which provides:
- HDL design entry (VHDL and Verilog)
- Schematic capture
- Logic synthesis and optimization
- Timing analysis
- Device programming
Compatibility with Xilinx FPGA Ecosystem
The CoolRunner-II CPLD family shares design flow compatibility with Xilinx FPGA products. This enables engineers to leverage existing design experience and potentially migrate designs between CPLD and FPGA platforms as project requirements evolve.
XC2C512-7FT256I Ordering Information
Part Number Breakdown
The XC2C512-7FT256I part number indicates:
| Segment |
Meaning |
| XC2C |
CoolRunner-II CPLD Family |
| 512 |
512 Macrocells |
| -7 |
Speed Grade (7.1ns maximum delay) |
| FT256 |
256-Ball Fine-Pitch BGA Package |
| I |
Industrial Temperature Grade (-40°C to +85°C) |
Related Part Numbers
| Part Number |
Description |
| XC2C512-7FT256C |
Commercial temperature grade (0°C to +70°C) |
| XC2C512-7FTG256I |
Industrial grade, Pb-free package |
| XC2C512-7PQ208I |
208-pin PQFP package, 173 user I/O |
| XC2C512-7FG324I |
324-ball BGA package, 270 user I/O |
XC2C512-7FT256I Comparison with Similar CPLDs
CoolRunner-II Family Comparison
| Feature |
XC2C256 |
XC2C512 |
XC2C384 |
| Macrocells |
256 |
512 |
384 |
| System Gates |
6,000 |
12,000 |
9,000 |
| Function Blocks |
16 |
32 |
24 |
| Max User I/O |
184 |
270 |
240 |
| Min tpd |
5ns |
7.1ns |
6ns |
Why Choose the XC2C512-7FT256I CPLD
The XC2C512-7FT256I delivers an optimal balance of performance, power efficiency, and functionality. Engineers choose this CPLD for several compelling reasons:
- Industry-Leading Low Power: The 14μA quiescent current extends battery life in portable applications
- Fast Performance: 7.1ns pin-to-pin delays enable high-speed interface designs
- Instant-On Operation: Non-volatile configuration eliminates boot delays
- Flexible I/O: Support for multiple voltage standards simplifies system integration
- Industrial Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C operation ensures reliability in harsh environments
- Advanced Features: DataGATE, CoolCLOCK, and DualEDGE technologies provide additional design flexibility
- Robust Security: Protects valuable intellectual property in production designs
XC2C512-7FT256I Summary Specifications
| Category |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC2C512-7FT256I |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (Xilinx) |
| Family |
CoolRunner-II |
| Type |
CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device) |
| Macrocells |
512 |
| Gates |
12,000 |
| Max Frequency |
179MHz |
| tpd (Max) |
7.1ns |
| Core Voltage |
1.8V |
| I/O Voltage |
1.5V – 3.3V |
| User I/O |
212 |
| Package |
256-FTBGA (17×17mm) |
| Temperature Range |
-40°C to +85°C |
| Programming |
JTAG (IEEE 1532) |
| RoHS Status |
Non-compliant (RoHS compliant versions available) |
For additional technical documentation, application notes, and design resources for the XC2C512-7FT256I, consult the official AMD/Xilinx datasheet and user guides.