The AMD XC2S50-5PQG208I is a high-performance Spartan-II Field Programmable Gate Array designed for versatile digital circuit implementations. This 50,000 system gate FPGA delivers exceptional flexibility and reliability for embedded systems, industrial automation, telecommunications, and consumer electronics applications. Engineers worldwide trust this reconfigurable logic device for prototyping and production environments where adaptability and cost-effectiveness matter.

XC2S50-5PQG208I Key Features and Benefits

The XC2S50-5PQG208I combines powerful processing capabilities with energy-efficient operation. Built on 0.18μm CMOS technology, this device operates at a 2.5V core voltage while supporting multiple I/O voltage standards including 1.5V, 2.5V, and 3.3V. The industrial-grade temperature rating ensures reliable performance across demanding operating environments.

System Gate Capacity and Logic Resources

This Spartan-II FPGA provides 50,000 system gates organized into 1,728 logic cells. The architecture includes 384 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) arranged in a flexible array structure. Each CLB contains four logic cells with look-up tables (LUTs) that can implement any 4-input Boolean function. This configuration enables complex digital logic designs without external components.

Block RAM and Distributed Memory

The XC2S50-5PQG208I features 56 Kbits of dedicated block RAM organized as dual-port synchronous memory blocks. Each 4,096-bit memory block operates independently with configurable data widths. Additionally, the device offers 75 Kbits of distributed RAM using CLB resources for smaller, faster memory requirements close to logic elements.

Clock Management with Delay-Locked Loops

Four dedicated Delay-Locked Loops (DLLs) positioned at each corner of the die provide precise clock management capabilities. These DLLs eliminate clock distribution delays, multiply or divide clock frequencies, and enable phase shifting for optimal system timing. The maximum operating frequency reaches 263 MHz, supporting high-speed digital processing applications.

XC2S50-5PQG208I Technical Specifications

Understanding the complete specifications helps engineers integrate this FPGA effectively into their designs.

Package Information and Pin Configuration

The PQG208 package offers a 208-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack configuration optimized for surface-mount assembly. The “G” designation indicates Pb-free (lead-free) packaging compliant with RoHS environmental standards. This package provides 140 user-programmable I/O pins organized into multiple I/O banks.

I/O Standards and Voltage Compatibility

The XC2S50-5PQG208I supports 16 different I/O standards for maximum design flexibility. Compatible standards include LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI 3.3V, GTL, GTL+, HSTL, SSTL, and differential signaling options. The I/O bank architecture allows different voltage levels on separate banks, simplifying mixed-voltage system integration.

Spartan-II FPGA Architecture Overview

The Spartan-II architecture provides a balanced combination of logic, memory, and routing resources. Input/Output Blocks (IOBs) surround the CLB array, with block RAM columns positioned along vertical edges. This layout optimizes signal routing between logic elements and I/O pins.

Configurable Logic Block Structure

Each CLB contains four interconnected logic cells organized as two slices. Every slice includes two 4-input LUTs, two flip-flops or latches, and carry logic for arithmetic operations. The LUTs can alternatively function as 16×1 distributed RAM or 16-bit shift registers, adding memory flexibility within the logic fabric.

Global Clock Distribution Network

Four dedicated low-skew global clock networks distribute timing signals across the entire device. These primary global nets connect to all IOB, CLB, and block RAM clock inputs with minimal propagation delay. Secondary clock resources provide additional routing options for multi-clock domain designs.

XC2S50-5PQG208I Applications

This versatile FPGA serves numerous application areas requiring reconfigurable logic and high-speed processing.

Industrial Automation and Control

Factory automation systems utilize this FPGA for motion control, sensor fusion, and custom state machine implementations. The device handles real-time processing requirements while supporting various industrial communication protocols through its flexible I/O structure.

Telecommunications and Networking

Base stations, network switches, and protocol converters benefit from the high-speed processing and adaptable interface capabilities. The block RAM and DLL features enable efficient data buffering and clock domain crossing in communication systems.

Consumer Electronics

Smart devices, audio/video processing equipment, and gaming peripherals leverage the FPGA’s programmable logic for custom functionality. The compact package and low power consumption suit battery-powered and space-constrained applications.

Automotive Electronics

In-vehicle infotainment, driver assistance systems, and sensor processing applications rely on the industrial temperature rating and reprogrammable architecture. Designers can update functionality as standards evolve without hardware modifications.

Development Tools and Design Support

AMD provides comprehensive development support through the ISE Design Suite software environment. This toolchain handles synthesis, mapping, placement, and routing for Spartan-II devices. Hardware description languages including VHDL and Verilog enable efficient design entry for complex digital systems.

Configuration Options

The XC2S50-5PQG208I supports multiple configuration modes including Master Serial, Slave Serial, Slave Parallel, and Boundary Scan (JTAG). Configuration data loads from external PROM devices or through system processors, enabling flexible boot architectures and in-system updates.

Ordering Information and Part Number Breakdown

The part number XC2S50-5PQG208I decodes as follows:

• XC2S50: Spartan-II family, 50K system gates
• -5: Speed grade (standard performance)
• PQ: Plastic Quad Flat Pack
• G: Pb-free (lead-free) package
• 208: Pin count
• I: Industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C)

Why Choose the XC2S50-5PQG208I for Your Design

This Spartan-II FPGA delivers proven reliability backed by decades of field deployment across diverse industries. The combination of adequate logic resources, integrated memory, and robust I/O capabilities addresses mid-range complexity designs cost-effectively. Industrial temperature operation and RoHS-compliant packaging meet modern manufacturing and environmental requirements.

For engineers seeking programmable logic solutions, the XC2S50-5PQG208I provides an established platform with extensive documentation and community support. Whether prototyping new concepts or deploying production systems, this FPGA offers the flexibility and performance that demanding applications require.