The AMD XC2S50-5TQG144C is a high-performance field programmable gate array from the renowned Spartan-II FPGA family. This versatile programmable logic device delivers 50,000 system gates, 1,728 logic cells, and operates at frequencies up to 263 MHz, making it an excellent choice for embedded systems, telecommunications equipment, and industrial automation applications.
XC2S50-5TQG144C Key Features and Benefits
The XC2S50-5TQG144C offers an impressive combination of processing power and flexibility. Built on cost-effective 0.18-micron process technology, this FPGA provides unlimited reprogramming cycles through its SRAM-based architecture. Engineers benefit from field-upgradable designs without requiring hardware replacement, significantly reducing development costs and time-to-market.
This Spartan-II device includes four dedicated Delay-Locked Loops (DLLs) for advanced clock control and management. The four primary low-skew global clock distribution networks ensure precise timing across all logic elements. Additionally, the device supports IEEE 1149.1 boundary scan logic for comprehensive testing and debugging capabilities.
XC2S50-5TQG144C Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Value |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (formerly Xilinx) |
| Part Number |
XC2S50-5TQG144C |
| FPGA Family |
Spartan-II |
| System Gates |
50,000 |
| Logic Cells |
1,728 |
| CLB Array |
16 x 24 |
| Total CLBs |
384 |
| Maximum User I/O |
92 |
| Operating Frequency |
Up to 263 MHz |
| Core Voltage |
2.5V |
| Process Technology |
0.18 µm |
| Speed Grade |
-5 |
| Temperature Range |
Commercial (0°C to +85°C) |
| Package Type |
144-Pin TQFP |
| RoHS Status |
Compliant (Pb-Free) |
Memory Architecture of XC2S50-5TQG144C
The XC2S50-5TQG144C features a sophisticated hierarchical memory system designed for maximum flexibility. The SelectRAM technology provides two distinct memory options that engineers can utilize based on application requirements.
Block RAM Specifications
The device incorporates 32 kilobits of dedicated block RAM organized in eight 4,096-bit dual-port memory blocks. Each block RAM cell operates as a fully synchronous dual-ported RAM with independent control signals for each port. This architecture enables simultaneous read and write operations, ideal for FIFO buffers, frame storage, and data buffering applications.
Distributed RAM Capabilities
Beyond block RAM, the XC2S50-5TQG144C provides 24,576 bits of distributed RAM implemented within the Configurable Logic Blocks. Each Look-Up Table (LUT) can store 16 bits of user data, enabling designers to create small, fast memory structures directly within the logic fabric for register files and small lookup tables.
Configurable Logic Block Architecture
The Configurable Logic Blocks form the core processing element of the XC2S50-5TQG144C FPGA. Each CLB contains four Logic Cells (LCs), and each Logic Cell includes a 4-input function generator (LUT), dedicated storage element, and dedicated carry logic for arithmetic operations.
The CLB architecture supports efficient implementation of complex logic functions, arithmetic operations, and memory elements. Four direct feedthrough paths per CLB provide extra data input lines without consuming logic resources. This design enables high-performance implementations of multipliers, counters, and state machines.
I/O Standards and Packaging
The XC2S50-5TQG144C supports 16 different I/O standards, providing exceptional interfacing flexibility. Compatible standards include LVTTL, LVCMOS (3.3V and 2.5V), PCI (3.3V), GTL, GTL+, HSTL (Class I, II, III, and IV), SSTL (2 and 3, Class I and II), CTT, and AGP.
The 144-pin TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) package offers 92 user-programmable I/O pins organized into eight I/O banks. Each bank supports independent VCCO voltage levels, enabling direct connection to multiple voltage domains within a single design. The “G” suffix indicates Pb-free (lead-free) packaging for RoHS compliance.
Configuration Options for XC2S50-5TQG144C
The XC2S50-5TQG144C supports multiple configuration modes to accommodate various system architectures. Master Serial mode allows the FPGA to autonomously load configuration data from an external serial PROM during power-up.
Slave Serial and Slave Parallel modes enable external processors or controllers to manage the configuration process. Boundary Scan mode supports JTAG-based programming for in-system configuration and debugging. The configuration data size for XC2S50 devices is approximately 559,200 bits.
XC2S50-5TQG144C Application Areas
This versatile Xilinx FPGA excels in numerous applications requiring programmable logic solutions.
Telecommunications and Networking
The XC2S50-5TQG144C handles protocol conversion, packet processing, and interface bridging in base stations, network switches, and communication gateways. Its DLL-based clock management and wide I/O support enable adaptation to evolving interface standards.
Industrial Automation and Control
Factory automation systems, motion controllers, and smart sensors benefit from the device’s reliable timing and abundant on-chip memory. Custom state machines and control algorithms implement efficiently within the FPGA’s logic fabric.
Consumer Electronics
Smart TVs, gaming peripherals, and home automation hubs utilize this FPGA for video processing, audio handling, and control tasks. The cost-effective design enables integration of multiple functions on a single chip.
Automotive Systems
In-vehicle infotainment, advanced driver assistance systems, and sensor fusion applications leverage the reprogrammable logic for updatable features. The 2.5V core with multi-voltage I/O compatibility matches typical automotive power rails.
Design Tools and Development Support
AMD provides comprehensive development support through the ISE Design Suite, which includes synthesis, implementation, and timing analysis tools optimized for Spartan-II devices. The software environment supports VHDL, Verilog, and schematic-based design entry methods.
Configuration storage options include Platform Flash PROMs for automatic power-up loading and JTAG programming interfaces for development and production programming. Third-party IP cores extend functionality with pre-verified modules for processors, interfaces, and signal processing algorithms.
Why Choose the XC2S50-5TQG144C FPGA
The XC2S50-5TQG144C represents an optimal balance between performance, features, and cost for mid-density FPGA applications. Its second-generation ASIC replacement technology eliminates the initial cost, lengthy development cycles, and inherent risk associated with conventional ASICs.
The device’s unlimited reprogrammability enables design upgrades in the field without hardware replacement, providing long-term flexibility impossible with fixed-function devices. Fast, predictable interconnect ensures successive design iterations continue meeting timing requirements, accelerating development cycles.
Order XC2S50-5TQG144C Today
The AMD XC2S50-5TQG144C delivers proven Spartan-II technology in a compact 144-pin TQFP package. With 50,000 system gates, comprehensive memory options, and support for 16 I/O standards, this FPGA provides the flexibility and performance needed for demanding embedded applications. Contact our team for current stock availability, pricing, and technical support for your next programmable logic design project.
