What Is the XC2C256-VQG100CMS?
The XC2C256-VQG100CMS is a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) manufactured by Xilinx, now part of AMD. This device belongs to the CoolRunner-II CPLD family, which is renowned for delivering exceptional performance while maintaining ultra-low power consumption. Consequently, engineers and designers prefer the XC2C256-VQG100CMS for applications requiring both high-speed logic processing and energy efficiency.
This CPLD features 256 macrocells and comes in a compact 100-pin VQFP (Very Thin Quad Flat Package). Moreover, the device operates on 1.8V core voltage and supports multi-voltage I/O operations ranging from 1.5V to 3.3V.
XC2C256-VQG100CMS Key Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC2C256-VQG100CMS |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD) |
| Product Family |
CoolRunner-II CPLD |
| Number of Macrocells |
256 |
| Equivalent Gates |
6,000 |
| User I/O Pins |
80 |
| Package Type |
TQFP-100 (VQFP-100) |
| Package Dimensions |
14mm x 14mm |
| Core Voltage (VCCINT) |
1.8V |
| I/O Voltage (VCCIO) |
1.5V – 3.3V |
| Process Technology |
0.18µm CMOS |
| RoHS Compliance |
Yes |
XC2C256-VQG100CMS Performance Parameters
| Performance Metric |
Value |
| Pin-to-Pin Delay (tPD) |
As fast as 5.7 ns |
| Maximum Frequency |
Up to 256 MHz |
| Quiescent Current (Standby) |
As low as 13 µA |
| Function Blocks |
8 |
| I/O Banks |
2 |
| Global Clocks |
3 |
XC2C256-VQG100CMS Architecture Overview
Advanced Interconnect Matrix (AIM)
The XC2C256-VQG100CMS incorporates Xilinx’s proprietary Advanced Interconnect Matrix (AIM) technology. This low-power interconnect structure feeds 40 true and complement inputs to each Function Block. As a result, the AIM enables efficient signal routing while minimizing dynamic power consumption.
Function Block Configuration
Each of the eight Function Blocks contains a 40×56 product-term PLA and 16 macrocells. Furthermore, these macrocells provide extensive configuration options including:
- Combinational or registered operation modes
- D or T flip-flop configuration
- D latch mode
- Global reset and preset capabilities
- Per-macrocell clock selection
Dual I/O Bank Support
The XC2C256-VQG100CMS features two independent I/O banks. Therefore, designers can easily interface with devices operating at different voltage levels (3.3V, 2.5V, 1.8V, and 1.5V) within the same design.
XC2C256-VQG100CMS Advanced Features
CoolCLOCK Technology
CoolCLOCK combines clock division (divide-by-2) with the DualEDGE flip-flop feature. Consequently, this technology enables high-performance synchronous operation at reduced clock frequencies, significantly lowering overall power consumption.
DualEDGE Flip-Flop
The DualEDGE feature allows macrocell registers to operate on both rising and falling clock edges. Thus, designers can achieve equivalent throughput at half the clock frequency.
DataGATE Input Control
DataGATE technology selectively disables unused CPLD inputs during specific operational periods. Hence, switching power consumption decreases substantially when certain signals are not required.
Clock Divider Circuit
The XC2C256-VQG100CMS includes built-in clock divider circuitry for global clock GCK2. This feature provides eight different division selections, yielding both even and odd clock frequencies.
XC2C256-VQG100CMS Pin Configuration
| Pin Category |
Description |
| VCCINT |
Core power supply (1.8V) |
| VCCIO |
I/O power supply (1.5V–3.3V) |
| GND |
Ground connections |
| I/O Pins |
80 general-purpose user I/O |
| GCK[2:0] |
Global clock inputs |
| GSR |
Global Set/Reset |
| GTS[1:0] |
Global Output Enable |
| JTAG |
Programming/debugging interface |
XC2C256-VQG100CMS I/O Features
| Feature |
Capability |
| Schmitt-Trigger Inputs |
Per-pin configurable |
| Slew Rate Control |
Programmable |
| Bus Hold |
Available |
| Internal Pull-up |
Programmable |
| Open Drain Output |
Supported |
| Programmable Grounds |
Available |
| JEDEC I/O Standards |
Compatible |
XC2C256-VQG100CMS Application Areas
Due to its exceptional balance of performance and low power consumption, the XC2C256-VQG100CMS suits numerous applications:
- Consumer Electronics – Portable devices requiring minimal power drain
- Industrial Control Systems – Logic interfacing and protocol conversion
- Telecommunications Equipment – High-speed signal processing
- Medical Devices – Battery-operated diagnostic equipment
- Internet of Things (IoT) – Edge computing and sensor interfacing
- 5G Infrastructure – Signal conditioning and control logic
- Automotive Electronics – ADAS and infotainment systems
XC2C256-VQG100CMS Package Options
The XC2C256 device is available in multiple package configurations:
| Package Type |
Pin Count |
User I/O |
| VQFP (VQG100) |
100 |
80 |
| TQFP (TQ144) |
144 |
118 |
| CP BGA (0.5mm) |
132 |
106 |
| PQFP (PQ208) |
208 |
173 |
| FT BGA (1.0mm) |
256 |
184 |
All packages are available in Pb-free (lead-free) versions for RoHS compliance.
XC2C256-VQG100CMS Design Tools
Designers can develop projects for the XC2C256-VQG100CMS using Xilinx ISE Design Suite. This comprehensive toolchain includes:
- ISE WebPACK – Free downloadable design software
- CPLD Fitter – Optimized place-and-route engine
- ISE Simulator – Functional and timing simulation
- ChipScope Pro – On-chip debugging capabilities
- JTAG Programmer – In-system programming support
For advanced Xilinx FPGA and CPLD product solutions, comprehensive design resources and technical support are available.
XC2C256-VQG100CMS Ordering Information
| Part Number |
Speed Grade |
Temperature Range |
Package |
| XC2C256-VQG100CMS |
Standard |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
VQFP-100 |
| XC2C256-6VQG100C |
-6 (Fastest) |
Commercial |
VQFP-100 |
| XC2C256-7VQG100C |
-7 (Standard) |
Commercial |
VQFP-100 |
| XC2C256-7VQG100I |
-7 (Standard) |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
VQFP-100 |
Why Choose the XC2C256-VQG100CMS?
The XC2C256-VQG100CMS delivers compelling advantages for embedded system designers:
- Ultra-Low Power – 13µA standby current extends battery life
- High Performance – 5.7ns pin-to-pin delays enable fast logic execution
- Flexible I/O – Multi-voltage support simplifies mixed-voltage designs
- Compact Package – 100-pin VQFP saves valuable PCB space
- Advanced Features – CoolCLOCK, DataGATE, and DualEDGE reduce power further
- Easy Programming – JTAG interface enables in-system updates
- Reliable Operation – Low power operation improves system reliability
