Overview of XCS40-4PQ208I FPGA
The XCS40-4PQ208I is a powerful field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from AMD (formerly Xilinx), designed for engineers and designers who need reliable, reconfigurable logic solutions. This Spartan-XL family FPGA delivers exceptional performance with 40,000 gates and 1,862 logic cells, making it ideal for telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, and industrial control applications.
As part of the renowned Spartan-XL series, the XCS40-4PQ208I combines cost-effectiveness with robust functionality, offering designers the flexibility to implement complex digital logic circuits without compromising on performance or reliability.
Technical Specifications
Core Features
| Specification |
Details |
| Part Number |
XCS40-4PQ208I |
| Manufacturer |
AMD / Xilinx |
| Product Family |
Spartan-XL |
| Number of Gates |
40,000 gates |
| Logic Elements |
1,862 logic cells |
| CLBs (Configurable Logic Blocks) |
784 CLBs |
| Total RAM Bits |
25,088 bits |
| Maximum I/O |
169 user I/O pins |
Package and Environmental Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Package Type |
208-PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Package Dimensions |
28mm x 28mm |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°C to +100°C (Industrial grade) |
| Supply Voltage |
3.3V |
| Speed Grade |
-4 (standard performance) |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
Performance Characteristics
| Feature |
Specification |
| Maximum Frequency |
Up to 217 MHz |
| Configuration Memory |
SRAM-based |
| Configuration Mode |
Master Serial, Slave Serial, Peripheral |
| Programming Cycles |
Unlimited reprogramming capability |
| Technology Node |
0.5µm three-layer metal CMOS |
Key Features and Benefits
High Logic Density
With 40,000 gates and 784 configurable logic blocks, the XCS40-4PQ208I provides ample resources for implementing complex digital designs, signal processing algorithms, and control logic systems.
Industrial Temperature Range
Operating reliably from -40°C to +100°C, this FPGA excels in harsh environmental conditions, making it perfect for automotive, aerospace, and outdoor industrial applications.
Flexible I/O Architecture
The device features 169 user I/O pins with programmable output slew-rate control, allowing designers to optimize signal integrity while minimizing electromagnetic interference (EMI) in their systems.
Cost-Effective Solution
As part of the Spartan-XL family, this FPGA delivers excellent price-to-performance ratio, making it an economical choice for medium-density programmable logic applications.
Proven Reliability
Built on Xilinx’s mature 0.5µm CMOS process technology with three-layer metal interconnect, the XCS40-4PQ208I offers long-term reliability and consistent performance across production batches.
Applications and Use Cases
Telecommunications Equipment
- Protocol converters and bridges
- Digital signal processing (DSP) implementations
- Communication interface controllers
- Data packet processing
Industrial Automation
- Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Motion control systems
- Sensor interface modules
- Factory automation equipment
Automotive Electronics
- Engine control units (ECUs)
- Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
- Infotainment system controllers
- Vehicle network interfaces
Aerospace and Defense
- Avionics control systems
- Radar signal processing
- Satellite communication modules
- Military-grade control systems
Design and Development Support
Software Compatibility
The XCS40-4PQ208I is fully supported by industry-standard design tools:
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite – Complete development environment
- VHDL and Verilog – HDL synthesis support
- Schematic Capture – Graphical design entry
- ABEL – Hardware description language support
Programming and Configuration
Multiple configuration modes provide flexibility:
- Master Serial mode for standalone operation
- Slave Serial mode for daisy-chain configuration
- Peripheral mode for microprocessor-based systems
Development Resources
Engineers working with this FPGA can access comprehensive resources including datasheets, application notes, reference designs, and active community support through technical forums.
Pin Configuration and Package Information
The 208-pin PQFP package (28mm x 28mm) offers an optimal balance between I/O count and board space. The pinout includes:
- Power supply pins (VCCINT, VCCIO)
- Ground pins (GND)
- Configuration pins (CCLK, DONE, PROG)
- 169 user-configurable I/O pins
- Dedicated clock input pins
Comparison with Similar FPGAs
XCS40-4PQ208I vs. Alternative Solutions
| Feature |
XCS40-4PQ208I |
XCS30XL |
Altera Cyclone II |
| Logic Cells |
1,862 |
1,400 |
Variable |
| Gates |
40,000 |
30,000 |
Variable |
| I/O Pins |
169 |
Lower |
Comparable |
| Temperature Range |
-40°C to +100°C |
-40°C to +85°C |
-40°C to +85°C |
Ordering Information and Availability
When ordering the XCS40-4PQ208I, engineers should verify:
- Complete part number including speed grade (-4)
- Package type (PQ208)
- Temperature grade (I for industrial)
- Lead-free/RoHS compliance requirements
The device is available through authorized distributors worldwide, with various packaging options including tape and reel for automated assembly.
Why Choose XCS40-4PQ208I for Your Design?
Proven Track Record
With years of successful deployments across multiple industries, the Spartan-XL family has established itself as a reliable choice for mission-critical applications.
Design Flexibility
The reconfigurable nature of this FPGA allows for rapid prototyping, easy design iterations, and field updates, significantly reducing time-to-market for your products.
Long-Term Availability
As a well-established product from AMD/Xilinx, the XCS40-4PQ208I benefits from strong supply chain support and long-term product lifecycle planning.
Technical Support
Access to comprehensive technical documentation, application notes, and responsive technical support ensures your design success from concept to production.
Getting Started with XCS40-4PQ208I
Design Flow
- Specification – Define your logic requirements
- Design Entry – Use VHDL, Verilog, or schematic capture
- Synthesis – Convert HDL to gate-level netlist
- Implementation – Place and route the design
- Configuration – Program the FPGA device
- Testing – Verify functionality and timing
Essential Tools
- Development board or custom PCB
- Programming cable (JTAG or serial)
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite
- Simulation tools for verification
Related Products and Resources
For comprehensive information about Xilinx FPGA technologies and design resources, explore advanced FPGA solutions and development platforms that complement the XCS40-4PQ208I in your system architecture.
Technical Support and Documentation
Available Resources
- Detailed product datasheet (DS060)
- Application notes for Spartan-XL family
- Configuration guides and programming specifications
- Timing analysis and constraint files
- Reliability and quality documentation
Community and Support
Access technical forums, knowledge bases, and direct engineering support through authorized distributors and manufacturer channels.
Conclusion
The XCS40-4PQ208I represents an excellent choice for engineers seeking a reliable, cost-effective FPGA solution with substantial logic capacity. Its industrial temperature range, proven reliability, and comprehensive development tool support make it suitable for demanding applications across telecommunications, industrial, automotive, and aerospace sectors.
Whether you’re developing a new product or upgrading an existing design, the XCS40-4PQ208I offers the perfect combination of performance, flexibility, and value. With 40,000 gates, 1,862 logic cells, and 169 I/O pins, this Spartan-XL FPGA provides the resources needed to implement sophisticated digital logic designs while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
