Overview of XC18V512PC20I Configuration PROM
The XC18V512PC20I is a high-performance, in-system programmable configuration PROM manufactured by AMD Xilinx (formerly Xilinx Inc.). This 512-kilobit memory device provides a reliable, cost-effective solution for storing and reprogramming FPGA configuration bitstreams. Designed specifically for Xilinx FPGA systems, the XC18V512PC20I operates at industrial temperature ranges and delivers exceptional programming flexibility for embedded applications.
Key Specifications and Features
Technical Specifications Table
| Specification |
Value |
| Part Number |
XC18V512PC20I |
| Manufacturer |
AMD Xilinx (Xilinx Inc.) |
| Memory Size |
512 Kilobit (512Kb) |
| Supply Voltage |
3.3V (3V to 3.6V) |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°C to +85°C (Industrial) |
| Package Type |
20-Pin PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) |
| Package Dimensions |
9x9mm |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) |
| Programming Type |
In-System Programmable (ISP) |
| Product Status |
Active |
Performance Characteristics Table
| Feature |
Specification |
| Program/Erase Cycles |
20,000 cycles endurance |
| Configuration Modes |
Serial (Slow/Fast) and Parallel |
| Serial Speed |
Up to 33 MHz |
| Parallel Bandwidth |
Up to 264 Mb/s at 33 MHz |
| I/O Voltage Tolerance |
5V-tolerant (accepts 5V, 3.3V, 2.5V signals) |
| Output Capability |
3.3V or 2.5V |
| JTAG Support |
IEEE Std 1149.1 compliant |
Product Features and Benefits
Advanced FLASH Memory Technology
The XC18V512PC20I utilizes advanced CMOS FLASH process technology, offering several advantages:
- High endurance: 20,000 program/erase cycles ensure long-term reliability
- Wide temperature operation: Functions reliably from -40°C to +85°C
- Low power consumption: Optimized for energy-efficient embedded systems
- Non-volatile storage: Retains configuration data without power
Dual Configuration Modes
Serial Configuration Mode
The serial configuration mode provides a simple, cost-effective interface requiring minimal pins. Operating at speeds up to 33 MHz, this mode is ideal for space-constrained applications where board real estate is premium.
Parallel Configuration Mode
For applications requiring faster configuration times, the parallel mode delivers exceptional performance with bandwidth up to 264 Mb/s at 33 MHz. This high-speed option significantly reduces FPGA boot time in time-critical applications.
FPGA Configuration Support
The XC18V512PC20I seamlessly interfaces with Xilinx FPGAs in multiple operating modes:
- Master Serial Mode: FPGA generates configuration clock
- Master SelectMAP Mode: FPGA-controlled high-speed parallel configuration
- Slave Parallel/SelectMAP Mode: External oscillator-driven configuration
In-System Programming Capabilities
The in-system programmable architecture allows field updates without removing the device from the circuit board. Benefits include:
- Remote firmware updates
- Reduced maintenance costs
- Extended product lifecycle
- Rapid prototyping and development cycles
Application Areas and Use Cases
Industrial Automation Systems
The industrial-grade temperature rating makes the XC18V512PC20I ideal for:
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
- Industrial control systems
- Factory automation equipment
- Process control applications
Communications Infrastructure
Reliable FPGA configuration storage for:
- Telecommunications equipment
- Network routers and switches
- Base station controllers
- Data center hardware
Embedded Computing Systems
Perfect for embedded applications requiring:
- System-on-Chip (SoC) FPGA configurations
- Reconfigurable computing platforms
- Edge computing devices
- IoT gateway systems
Test and Measurement Equipment
Essential component for:
- Oscilloscopes and spectrum analyzers
- Signal generators
- Protocol analyzers
- Laboratory instrumentation
Design and Development Support
JTAG Boundary-Scan Support
The XC18V512PC20I features IEEE Std 1149.1 compliant JTAG interface, enabling:
- In-circuit testing and debugging
- Board-level interconnect verification
- Manufacturing test coverage
- Standard FPGA configuration initiation
Software Compatibility
Designed for seamless integration with Xilinx development tools:
- ISE Foundation software package support
- Vivado Design Suite compatibility
- Simplified programming and configuration
- Comprehensive documentation and examples
Cascadable Architecture
Multiple XC18V512PC20I devices can be cascaded to:
- Store longer configuration bitstreams
- Support multiple FPGA configurations
- Enable dynamic reconfiguration scenarios
- Accommodate complex system requirements
Package and Pin Configuration
20-Pin PLCC Package Details
| Package Feature |
Specification |
| Package Type |
PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) |
| Pin Count |
20 pins |
| Body Size |
9x9mm |
| Pin Pitch |
J-Lead configuration |
| Mounting |
Surface mount (SMT) |
| RoHS Compliance |
Lead-free available |
Pin Function Summary
The 20-pin configuration includes:
- Power supply pins (VCC, GND)
- Data output (D0)
- Clock input (CLK)
- Chip enable (CE)
- Output enable (OE)
- Reset and control signals
- JTAG interface pins (TDI, TDO, TMS, TCK)
Comparison with Related Products
XC18V512 Family Variants
| Part Number |
Temperature Range |
Voltage |
Application |
| XC18V512PC20I |
-40°C to +85°C |
3.3V |
Industrial applications |
| XC18V512PC20C |
0°C to +70°C |
3.3V |
Commercial applications |
| XC18V512PCG20C |
0°C to +70°C |
2.5V/3.3V |
Dual-voltage systems |
Quality and Reliability
Manufacturing Standards
AMD Xilinx maintains rigorous quality control:
- ISO 9001 certified manufacturing
- Automotive-grade quality processes
- Comprehensive testing protocols
- Long-term reliability validation
Reliability Features
- ESD protection on all pins
- Latch-up resistant design
- Temperature cycling tested
- Moisture sensitivity level (MSL) rated
Ordering and Availability
Part Number Breakdown
XC18V512PC20I decodes as:
- XC18V = Xilinx configuration PROM family
- 512 = 512 Kilobit memory size
- PC = PLCC package
- 20 = 20-pin package
- I = Industrial temperature range
Supply Chain Information
The XC18V512PC20I is available through authorized distributors with:
- Active production status
- Global availability
- Standard lead times
- Volume pricing options
- Technical support included
Environmental Specifications
Storage and Operating Conditions
| Condition |
Specification |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°C to +85°C |
| Storage Temperature |
-65°C to +150°C |
| Relative Humidity |
5% to 95% non-condensing |
| Operating Voltage Range |
3.0V to 3.6V |
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation Available
- Complete datasheet with electrical specifications
- Application notes for FPGA configuration
- Programming guidelines
- PCB layout recommendations
- Thermal management guidelines
Design Resources
Access comprehensive support materials including:
- Reference designs
- Evaluation boards information
- Programming examples
- Troubleshooting guides
- FAQs and knowledge base
Conclusion
The XC18V512PC20I represents a proven, reliable solution for FPGA configuration storage in demanding industrial applications. With its robust temperature range, flexible programming options, and comprehensive support for Xilinx FPGAs, this configuration PROM delivers the performance and reliability required for mission-critical embedded systems. Whether designing telecommunications equipment, industrial controllers, or advanced test instruments, the XC18V512PC20I provides the configuration memory foundation essential for successful FPGA-based designs.
