The XC2S50-6TQG144C is a high-performance Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the AMD Xilinx Spartan-II family. This versatile programmable logic device delivers exceptional value for embedded systems, industrial control, telecommunications, and consumer electronics applications. With 50,000 system gates, 1,728 logic cells, and a 144-pin TQFP package, the XC2S50-6TQG144C offers the perfect balance of performance, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.
XC2S50-6TQG144C Key Features and Benefits
The Spartan-II XC2S50-6TQG144C combines proven Virtex architecture with cost-optimized design. Engineers and designers choose this FPGA for its reliable performance and extensive feature set that simplifies complex digital logic implementations.
High-Performance Programmable Logic
This FPGA operates at speeds up to 263 MHz, enabling real-time signal processing and high-speed data handling. The -6 speed grade designation indicates the fastest commercial-grade option available in the Spartan-II XC2S50 series, making it ideal for performance-critical applications.
Flexible Memory Architecture
The XC2S50-6TQG144C features SelectRAM hierarchical memory with:
- 32 Kbits total RAM capacity
- Distributed RAM: 16 bits per Look-Up Table (LUT)
- Block RAM: Configurable 4K-bit dual-port RAM blocks
- Fast interfaces to external RAM for expanded memory requirements
XC2S50-6TQG144C Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC2S50-6TQG144C |
| Manufacturer |
AMD Xilinx |
| Family |
Spartan-II |
| System Gates |
50,000 |
| Logic Cells |
1,728 |
| CLBs (Configurable Logic Blocks) |
384 |
| Maximum User I/O |
92 |
| Total RAM Bits |
32,768 |
| Speed Grade |
-6 (Fastest) |
| Process Technology |
0.18 µm |
| Core Voltage |
2.5V |
| I/O Voltage Range |
1.8V to 3.3V |
| Package Type |
144-Pin TQFP (20mm × 20mm) |
| Temperature Range |
0°C to +85°C (Commercial) |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status |
Pb-Free (Lead-Free) |
XC2S50-6TQG144C Architecture Overview
Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs)
The core programmable area consists of 384 CLBs arranged in a regular array. Each CLB contains four logic cells with:
- Four-input Look-Up Tables (LUTs) for implementing combinational logic
- D-type flip-flops or level-sensitive latches for sequential logic
- Dedicated carry logic for high-speed arithmetic operations
- Cascade chains for wide-input functions
Input/Output Blocks (IOBs)
The XC2S50-6TQG144C provides 92 user-configurable I/O pins organized into 8 I/O banks (Bank 0 through Bank 7). Each IOB supports multiple I/O standards including:
- LVTTL and LVCMOS (3.3V, 2.5V, 1.8V)
- PCI (3.3V and 5V tolerant inputs)
- GTL and GTL+
- SSTL2 and SSTL3
- HSTL Class I, II, III, and IV
Delay-Locked Loops (DLLs)
Four dedicated DLLs positioned at the corners of the die provide advanced clock management capabilities:
- Clock deskewing and phase shifting
- Clock multiplication and division
- Board-level clock synchronization across multiple FPGAs
- Low-jitter clock distribution
XC2S50-6TQG144C Configuration Options
The XC2S50-6TQG144C offers unlimited reprogramming cycles through SRAM-based configuration. Configuration data loads into internal static memory cells, determining the logic functions and interconnections.
Supported Configuration Modes
| Mode |
Description |
| Master Serial |
FPGA reads from external serial PROM |
| Slave Serial |
External controller writes serially |
| Slave Parallel |
External controller writes 8-bit parallel |
| Boundary Scan (JTAG) |
IEEE 1149.1 compliant programming |
XC2S50-6TQG144C Pin Configuration
The 144-pin TQFP package provides efficient board layout with the following pin allocation:
| Pin Category |
Count |
| User I/O Pins |
92 |
| Global Clock Inputs |
4 |
| Power Supply (VCCINT) |
Multiple |
| I/O Power (VCCO) |
Per Bank |
| Ground (GND) |
Multiple |
| Configuration Pins |
Dedicated |
| JTAG Interface |
4 (TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO) |
XC2S50-6TQG144C Applications
The XC2S50-6TQG144C Spartan-II FPGA serves diverse market segments requiring cost-effective programmable logic solutions:
Industrial Applications
- Motor control and servo drives
- Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Industrial automation systems
- Sensor interface and signal conditioning
Telecommunications
- Protocol conversion and bridging
- Data encryption and decryption
- Timing and synchronization circuits
- Digital signal processing front-ends
Consumer Electronics
- Video and image processing
- Audio processing systems
- Display controllers
- Gaming peripherals
Automotive Systems
- In-vehicle networking interfaces
- Dashboard instrumentation
- Body electronics control
- Infotainment systems
XC2S50-6TQG144C Development Tools
The XC2S50-6TQG144C integrates seamlessly with Xilinx ISE Design Suite, providing comprehensive development support:
- HDL Synthesis: Verilog and VHDL support
- Schematic Capture: Graphical design entry
- Simulation: Behavioral and timing simulation
- Implementation: Automatic placement and routing
- Bitstream Generation: Configuration file creation
- ChipScope Pro: On-chip debugging and analysis
Why Choose the XC2S50-6TQG144C?
Cost-Effective ASIC Alternative
The Spartan-II family eliminates the initial cost, lengthy development cycles, and inherent risks of mask-programmed ASICs. With unlimited reprogrammability, design iterations and field upgrades become straightforward.
Proven Reliability
Built on mature 0.18 µm process technology, the XC2S50-6TQG144C delivers consistent performance across commercial temperature ranges. The Pb-free (lead-free) packaging meets environmental compliance requirements.
Design Flexibility
The combination of high-speed operation, flexible memory options, and comprehensive I/O standards support enables implementation of complex digital systems without external glue logic.
XC2S50-6TQG144C Ordering Information
| Order Code |
Speed Grade |
Temperature Range |
Package |
| XC2S50-6TQG144C |
-6 |
Commercial (0°C to +85°C) |
144-TQFP Pb-Free |
| XC2S50-6TQG144I |
-6 |
Industrial (-40°C to +100°C) |
144-TQFP Pb-Free |
| XC2S50-5TQG144C |
-5 |
Commercial (0°C to +85°C) |
144-TQFP Pb-Free |
The “G” in the part number indicates Pb-free (green) packaging for RoHS compliance.
Related Xilinx FPGA Products
Looking for more Xilinx FPGA options? Explore the complete Spartan-II family and other programmable logic solutions to find the perfect fit for your design requirements. From entry-level to high-performance devices, Xilinx offers scalable FPGA solutions for every application.
XC2S50-6TQG144C Documentation and Resources
For complete technical documentation, reference the official AMD Xilinx resources:
- Datasheet: DS001 – Spartan-II FPGA Family Data Sheet
- User Guide: Spartan-II FPGA User Guide
- Application Notes: Configuration and implementation guides
- Pin Tables: Package-specific pinout information
Conclusion
The AMD Xilinx XC2S50-6TQG144C Spartan-II FPGA delivers a compelling combination of performance, flexibility, and value. With 50,000 system gates, 1,728 logic cells, and speeds up to 263 MHz in a compact 144-pin TQFP package, this device meets the demanding requirements of industrial, telecommunications, consumer, and automotive applications. The -6 speed grade ensures maximum performance, while the commercial temperature rating and Pb-free packaging provide reliability and environmental compliance.
Whether you’re designing motor control systems, communication interfaces, or custom digital logic, the XC2S50-6TQG144C provides the programmable platform to accelerate your development and reduce time-to-market.