Overview of XCS10XL-4VQ100I FPGA Chip
The XCS10XL-4VQ100I is a powerful field-programmable gate array from Xilinx FPGA Spartan-XL family, designed specifically for high-volume production environments requiring reliable ASIC replacement solutions. This industrial-grade FPGA delivers 10,000 system gates with 466 logic cells, making it an ideal choice for communications equipment, wireless infrastructure, medical devices, and enterprise systems.
Operating at speeds up to 217MHz with a 3.3V supply voltage, the XCS10XL-4VQ100I offers exceptional performance in a compact 100-pin VTQFP package. With 77 user-configurable I/O pins and an extended industrial temperature range (-40°C to +100°C), this FPGA provides the flexibility and robustness needed for demanding applications.
Technical Specifications
Core Performance Characteristics
| Specification |
Value |
| Part Number |
XCS10XL-4VQ100I |
| Family |
Spartan-XL |
| Logic Cells |
466 |
| System Gates |
10,000 |
| Maximum Frequency |
217 MHz |
| Supply Voltage |
3.3V |
| Speed Grade |
-4 |
Package and I/O Details
| Feature |
Specification |
| Package Type |
VTQFP (Very Thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
100 pins |
| User I/O |
77 configurable I/O pins |
| Package Dimensions |
14mm x 14mm |
| Mounting |
Surface mount |
Operating Conditions
| Parameter |
Rating |
| Temperature Range |
-40°C to +100°C (Industrial) |
| Temperature Grade |
I-Temp |
| RoHS Compliance |
Yes (Lead-free) |
| ESD Protection |
Built-in |
Key Features and Benefits
Advanced FPGA Architecture
The XCS10XL-4VQ100I features the proven Spartan-XL architecture with 196 configurable logic blocks (CLBs) arranged in a 14×14 matrix. Each CLB contains:
- Three look-up tables (LUTs) for flexible logic implementation
- Two flip-flops for sequential logic
- Fast carry logic for arithmetic operations
- 6,272 bits of distributed RAM
This architecture enables designers to implement complex digital logic functions with high efficiency and performance.
In-System Programmability
The device supports multiple configuration modes including:
- Master Serial mode
- Slave Serial mode
- Master Parallel mode
- JTAG boundary-scan (IEEE 1149.1/1532)
In-system programmability allows for field upgrades and rapid prototyping, significantly reducing development time and costs.
High-Speed Performance
With maximum operating frequencies up to 217MHz and optimized routing resources, the XCS10XL-4VQ100I delivers:
- Fast clock-to-output times
- Minimal propagation delays
- Efficient signal routing
- Low power consumption
Application Areas
Communications and Wireless Infrastructure
The XCS10XL-4VQ100I excels in communications applications requiring:
- Protocol processing and conversion
- Digital signal processing
- Interface bridging
- Custom communication controllers
Industrial Automation
Perfect for industrial control systems including:
- Motor control and drive systems
- Sensor interface processing
- Real-time control logic
- Data acquisition systems
Medical Equipment
Reliable performance for medical devices such as:
- Patient monitoring systems
- Diagnostic equipment
- Medical imaging processing
- Laboratory instrumentation
Enterprise Systems
Ideal for enterprise applications including:
- Data processing equipment
- Network infrastructure
- Server management systems
- Enterprise projectors and displays
Design Resources and Support
Development Tools
The XCS10XL-4VQ100I is fully supported by Xilinx development tools:
- ISE Design Suite for design entry and synthesis
- Timing analysis and constraint management
- Built-in simulation capabilities
- Programming and configuration utilities
On-Chip Features
Additional features that simplify design implementation:
- Internal 8MHz oscillator with programmable dividers
- Global clock distribution network
- Power-down mode for reduced power consumption
- Built-in boundary-scan testing
Comparison with Similar Devices
Spartan-XL Family Comparison
| Device |
Logic Cells |
System Gates |
I/O Pins |
CLB Matrix |
| XCS05XL |
238 |
5,000 |
77 |
10×10 |
| XCS10XL |
466 |
10,000 |
112 |
14×14 |
| XCS20XL |
950 |
20,000 |
160 |
20×20 |
| XCS30XL |
1,368 |
30,000 |
192 |
24×24 |
The XCS10XL strikes an optimal balance between logic capacity, I/O availability, and cost-effectiveness for mid-range applications.
Package Options and Ordering Information
Available Package Variants
The XCS10XL device family offers multiple package options:
- VQ100 (100-pin VQFP) – Featured variant
- TQ144 (144-pin TQFP)
- CS144 (144-pin CSA)
- PQ208 (208-pin PQFP)
Part Number Nomenclature
XCS10XL-4VQ100I breakdown:
- XCS10XL: Device family and size
- -4: Speed grade (faster = lower number)
- VQ100: Package type and pin count
- I: Industrial temperature range
Why Choose XCS10XL-4VQ100I?
Cost-Effective ASIC Alternative
The XCS10XL-4VQ100I provides ASIC-level performance and pricing in high volumes while eliminating:
- High initial NRE costs
- Long development cycles
- Manufacturing risks
- Design inflexibility
Proven Reliability
With extensive field deployment and rigorous testing:
- 100% functional testing
- Extended temperature operation
- Long-term availability
- Industry-proven architecture
Design Flexibility
Enables rapid product development through:
- Quick design iterations
- Field upgradability
- Easy design modifications
- Reduced time-to-market
Technical Support and Documentation
Available Resources
Complete documentation package includes:
- Comprehensive datasheet with timing specifications
- Configuration guide and programming information
- PCB footprint and symbol files
- Application notes and design examples
Quality Assurance
- RoHS compliant (lead-free)
- Pre-shipment inspection
- Authorized distributor network
- One-year warranty coverage
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Spartan and Spartan-XL?
The Spartan-XL family offers improved performance with faster speed grades, enhanced routing resources, and better timing predictability compared to the original Spartan family.
Can I use this FPGA for commercial temperature applications?
While the XCS10XL-4VQ100I is rated for industrial temperature (-40°C to +100°C), commercial temperature variants (XCS10XL-4VQ100C) are available for 0°C to +85°C applications.
What programming cable do I need?
The device supports standard Xilinx programming cables including Platform Cable USB and JTAG programmers compatible with IEEE 1149.1 standard.
Is this device still in production?
The XCS10XL family has reached obsolete status. However, inventory remains available through authorized distributors and electronics component suppliers for legacy system support and maintenance.
Conclusion
The XCS10XL-4VQ100I represents an excellent choice for designers seeking a reliable, cost-effective FPGA solution for industrial applications. With its proven architecture, comprehensive I/O capabilities, and robust operating specifications, this device continues to serve critical roles in communications, industrial, medical, and enterprise systems worldwide.
Whether you’re maintaining existing designs or developing new applications requiring industrial-grade reliability, the XCS10XL-4VQ100I delivers the performance and flexibility needed for successful product deployment.
