XC17S20PD8C Product Overview
The XC17S20PD8C is a high-performance serial configuration PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) manufactured by AMD, formerly known as Xilinx. This one-time programmable (OTP) memory device is specifically designed to store configuration bitstreams for Spartan and Spartan-XL FPGA families. As part of the XC17S series, the XC17S20PD8C provides engineers and designers with a reliable, cost-effective solution for FPGA configuration storage in embedded systems and industrial applications.
This configuration memory IC features a 174K-bit (174,000-bit) serial PROM architecture operating at 5V, housed in a compact 8-pin PDIP (Plastic Dual Inline Package). The commercial temperature grade version (indicated by the “C” suffix) is optimized for standard operating environments. For more information about compatible Xilinx FPGA devices and configuration solutions, engineers can explore comprehensive FPGA resources and technical documentation.
Key Features and Benefits of XC17S20PD8C
Technical Highlights
The XC17S20PD8C configuration PROM delivers exceptional performance and reliability for FPGA applications. Its one-time programmable architecture ensures permanent, secure storage of configuration data, making it ideal for production environments where data integrity is critical.
Core Advantages
- Simple Serial Interface: Requires only one user I/O pin for FPGA configuration, minimizing board complexity and routing requirements.
- Programmable Reset Polarity: Supports both active-high and active-low reset configurations for maximum flexibility across different FPGA platforms.
- Low Power Consumption: CMOS technology ensures minimal power draw during both standby and active operation modes.
- High Reliability: OTP architecture provides permanent data retention without battery backup requirements.
- Cascadable Design: CEO (Chip Enable Output) allows multiple PROMs to be chained for larger configuration storage needs.
XC17S20PD8C Technical Specifications
Electrical and Physical Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC17S20PD8C |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (formerly Xilinx) |
| Memory Type |
Serial Configuration PROM (OTP) |
| Memory Density |
174K-bit (174,000 bits) |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) |
5V (4.75V – 5.25V) |
| Package Type |
8-Pin PDIP (Plastic DIP) |
| Package Dimensions |
9.27mm × 6.35mm × 3.30mm |
| Pin Count |
8 Pins |
| Temperature Grade |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| Technology |
CMOS |
| Interface |
Serial |
| RoHS Status |
RoHS Compliant |
Operating Conditions
| Parameter |
Min |
Max |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) |
4.75V |
5.25V |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C |
+70°C |
| Storage Temperature |
-65°C |
+150°C |
| Input Low Voltage (VIL) |
0V |
0.8V |
| Input High Voltage (VIH) |
2.0V |
VCC + 0.5V |
XC17S20PD8C Pin Configuration and Description
The 8-pin PDIP package provides a simple, efficient interface for FPGA configuration. Understanding the pinout is essential for proper PCB design and system integration.
| Pin |
Name |
Description |
| 1 |
DATA |
Serial Data Output – Connects to FPGA DIN pin |
| 2 |
CLK |
Clock Input – Serial clock from FPGA CCLK |
| 3 |
RESET/OE |
Reset/Output Enable – Controls data output |
| 4 |
CE |
Chip Enable Input – Active low enable |
| 5 |
CEO |
Chip Enable Output – For cascading multiple PROMs |
| 6 |
VCC |
Power Supply – 5V |
| 7 |
GND |
Ground Reference |
| 8 |
NC/VPP |
No Connect / Programming Voltage |
FPGA Compatibility and Configuration Modes
Supported FPGA Families
The XC17S20PD8C is specifically designed to configure Xilinx Spartan and Spartan-XL FPGA families. The 174K-bit memory capacity supports FPGAs with up to 20,000 system gates, making it suitable for small to medium-density programmable logic applications.
| FPGA Family |
Gate Capacity |
Compatibility |
| Spartan |
Up to 20,000 gates |
Fully Compatible |
| Spartan-XL |
Up to 20,000 gates |
Fully Compatible |
| XC2S (Spartan-II) |
Select devices |
Compatible |
Configuration Mode Support
Master Serial Mode: The FPGA generates the configuration clock (CCLK) that drives the PROM. After a short access time following the rising clock edge, data appears on the PROM DATA output pin connected to the FPGA DIN pin.
Slave Serial Mode: Both the PROM and FPGA are clocked by an external signal source. This mode provides flexibility for multi-device configurations and external timing control.
Target Applications for XC17S20PD8C
The XC17S20PD8C configuration PROM is well-suited for a wide range of embedded and industrial applications requiring reliable FPGA configuration storage:
| Application Sector |
Use Cases |
| Industrial Automation |
PLC controllers, motor drives, sensor interfaces |
| Telecommunications |
Protocol converters, signal processors, interface cards |
| Consumer Electronics |
Video processing, display controllers, audio systems |
| Test & Measurement |
Data acquisition, signal generation, instrumentation |
| Embedded Systems |
Microcontroller peripherals, custom logic, co-processors |
| Automotive |
Dashboard systems, sensor networks, control modules |
Design Guidelines and Best Practices
PCB Layout Recommendations
For optimal performance and reliability when integrating the XC17S20PD8C into your design, consider the following guidelines:
- Power Supply Decoupling: Place a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor as close as possible to the VCC pin to filter high-frequency noise.
- Signal Routing: Keep clock and data lines as short as possible to minimize signal integrity issues.
- Ground Plane: Use a solid ground plane beneath the PROM and FPGA for optimal noise immunity.
- Cascade Connection: When cascading multiple PROMs, connect CEO of the first device to CE of the next device.
Ordering Information and Part Number Variants
The XC17S20 series is available in multiple package options and temperature grades to meet diverse application requirements:
| Part Number |
Package |
Temperature Grade |
| XC17S20PD8C |
8-Pin PDIP |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| XC17S20PD8I |
8-Pin PDIP |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
| XC17S20PC8C |
8-Pin PDIP |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| XC17S20VO8C |
8-Pin SOIC |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
Quality Standards and Compliance
The XC17S20PD8C meets stringent quality and environmental standards required for professional electronic designs:
- RoHS Compliant: Meets EU Directive 2011/65/EU requirements for restriction of hazardous substances.
- REACH Compliant: Complies with EU REACH regulations for chemical substance safety.
- MSL Rating: Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 – unlimited floor life at ≤30°C/85% RH.
Conclusion
The XC17S20PD8C represents a proven, reliable solution for FPGA configuration in embedded systems. Its combination of adequate memory density, simple serial interface, and robust CMOS technology makes it an excellent choice for engineers designing with Spartan and Spartan-XL FPGAs. Whether for industrial automation, telecommunications, or consumer electronics applications, the XC17S20PD8C delivers the performance and reliability that professional designs demand.
For technical support and additional documentation, please refer to the AMD (formerly Xilinx) official product documentation and application notes.
