The XA3S500E-4CPG132I is an automotive-grade Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the renowned Spartan-3E family, manufactured by AMD (formerly Xilinx). This robust FPGA solution delivers exceptional performance with 500K gates and 10,476 cells, making it ideal for cost-sensitive automotive electronics and industrial applications requiring reliable programmable logic.
Overview of XA3S500E-4CPG132I Specifications
The XA3S500E-4CPG132I combines advanced 90nm CMOS technology with automotive-grade reliability, operating at speeds up to 572MHz. This <a href=”https://pcbsync.com/xilinx-fpga/”>Xilinx FPGA</a> features a compact 132-pin CS-BGA package, providing an optimal balance between functionality and board space efficiency.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XA3S500E-4CPG132I |
| Manufacturer |
AMD / Xilinx |
| Product Family |
XA Spartan-3E |
| Logic Elements |
10,476 Cells |
| System Gates |
500,000 (500K) |
| Configurable Logic Blocks |
1,164 CLBs |
| Operating Frequency |
572 MHz |
| Supply Voltage |
1.2V Core |
| Process Technology |
90nm CMOS |
| Package Type |
132-Pin CS-BGA (Chip Scale Ball Grid Array) |
| Temperature Grade |
Automotive (-40°C to +125°C) |
| Speed Grade |
-4 (Industrial) |
XA3S500E-4CPG132I Features and Benefits
Automotive-Grade Reliability
The XA designation indicates this FPGA meets stringent automotive quality standards, making it suitable for mission-critical automotive applications including infotainment systems, driver assistance modules, and instrument clusters.
High-Performance Architecture
| Feature Category |
Details |
| Logic Resources |
1,164 CLBs providing flexible logic implementation |
| Memory |
Distributed RAM and dedicated block RAM resources |
| I/O Capabilities |
Multiple I/O standards support with 132 configurable pins |
| Clock Management |
Digital Clock Manager (DCM) for precise timing control |
| Configuration |
Multiple configuration modes including JTAG, SPI, and parallel |
Cost-Effective FPGA Solution
The Spartan-3E architecture optimizes cost per logic cell, delivering more functionality per dollar compared to traditional ASIC solutions. This makes the XA3S500E-4CPG132I perfect for high-volume production environments.
Applications for XA3S500E-4CPG132I
Automotive Electronics
- Infotainment Systems: Audio/video processing, connectivity modules
- Driver Information Displays: Dashboard instrumentation, HUD systems
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Sensor fusion, image processing
- Body Control Modules: Lighting control, climate systems
Industrial Control Systems
- Motor Drive Controllers: Precision motor control algorithms
- Communication Equipment: Protocol conversion, data routing
- Datacom Modules: High-speed data processing
- Process Automation: Real-time control and monitoring
Technical Architecture Details
Configurable Logic Block Structure
The XA3S500E-4CPG132I features 1,164 CLBs arranged in a flexible fabric. Each CLB contains four logic slices with look-up tables (LUTs), flip-flops, and dedicated arithmetic logic for efficient digital design implementation.
Memory Resources
| Memory Type |
Capacity |
Application |
| Block RAM |
Multiple 18Kb blocks |
Data buffering, FIFO implementation |
| Distributed RAM |
Within CLB slices |
Small memory arrays, shift registers |
| Configuration Memory |
SRAM-based |
Volatile configuration storage |
Clock and Timing Management
The integrated Digital Clock Manager provides frequency synthesis, phase shifting, and clock distribution capabilities essential for multi-domain timing applications.
Package Information: 132-Pin CS-BGA
Physical Characteristics
- Package Type: CS-BGA (Chip Scale Ball Grid Array)
- Pin Count: 132 pins
- Footprint: Compact surface-mount design
- Ball Pitch: Fine-pitch for high-density PCB layouts
- Thermal Performance: Enhanced heat dissipation characteristics
PCB Design Considerations
| Design Aspect |
Recommendation |
| Layer Count |
Minimum 4-layer PCB recommended |
| Power Planes |
Dedicated planes for 1.2V core and I/O supplies |
| Decoupling |
Multiple capacitors per power pin |
| Signal Integrity |
Controlled impedance for high-speed signals |
| Thermal Management |
Adequate copper pour and thermal vias |
Programming and Configuration
Supported Configuration Methods
The XA3S500E-4CPG132I supports multiple configuration interfaces:
- JTAG: In-circuit programming and debugging
- Master Serial: Direct SPI flash boot
- Master Parallel: High-speed parallel configuration
- Slave Serial: Daisy-chain configuration
- Slave Parallel: Processor-controlled configuration
Development Tools
Compatible with industry-standard FPGA development tools including Xilinx ISE Design Suite and Vivado Design Suite (for legacy support).
Power Specifications and Consumption
Voltage Requirements
| Power Rail |
Typical Voltage |
Tolerance |
Purpose |
| VCCINT |
1.2V |
±5% |
Core logic supply |
| VCCO |
1.2V to 3.3V |
Bank-dependent |
I/O supply voltage |
| VCCAUX |
2.5V or 3.3V |
±5% |
Auxiliary circuits |
Power Management Features
- Multiple power domains for flexible I/O voltage
- Low-power modes for reduced standby consumption
- Power sequencing requirements for reliable startup
Performance Characteristics
Speed Grade Analysis
The -4 speed grade represents an industrial-grade timing specification, offering:
- Maximum operating frequency of 572 MHz
- Optimized for cost-sensitive applications
- Balanced performance and power consumption
- Wide temperature range operation
Timing Performance
| Parameter |
Value |
| Logic Delay |
~4 speed grade |
| Clock-to-Out |
Fast propagation times |
| Setup/Hold Times |
Optimized for high-frequency operation |
| Global Clock Resources |
Multiple low-skew clock networks |
Comparison with Related Parts
Spartan-3E Family Overview
The XA3S500E-4CPG132I sits in the middle of the Spartan-3E density range:
- XA3S100E: 100K gates – smallest family member
- XA3S250E: 250K gates – compact applications
- XA3S500E: 500K gates – mainstream choice (this device)
- XA3S1200E: 1.2M gates – high-density applications
- XA3S1600E: 1.6M gates – maximum capacity
Package Variants
| Part Number |
Package |
Pin Count |
Use Case |
| XA3S500E-4CPG132I |
CS-BGA |
132 |
Space-constrained designs |
| XA3S500E-4PQG208I |
PQFP |
208 |
Higher I/O count |
| XA3S500E-4FTG256I |
FTBGA |
256 |
Maximum I/O availability |
| XA3S500E-4FG320I |
FBGA |
320 |
Enhanced thermal performance |
Quality and Compliance
Automotive Standards
- AEC-Q100 Qualified: Meets automotive reliability standards
- Extended Temperature Range: -40°C to +125°C junction temperature
- Proven in Production: Widely deployed in automotive systems
Environmental Compliance
- RoHS compliant (lead-free)
- REACH compliant
- Halogen-free options available
- Moisture sensitivity level (MSL) rated
Design Resources and Support
Documentation Available
- Complete datasheet with electrical specifications
- User guide for Spartan-3E architecture
- Application notes for automotive designs
- PCB layout guidelines for CS-BGA packages
- Thermal management application notes
Reference Designs
Multiple reference designs available for common automotive applications including CAN bus interfaces, motor control, and sensor interfacing.
Ordering Information and Availability
Part Number Breakdown
XA3S500E-4CPG132I
- XA: Automotive-grade qualification
- 3S500E: Spartan-3E, 500K gate density
- -4: Speed grade (industrial)
- CPG132: 132-pin CS-BGA package
- I: Industrial temperature range
Lead Time and Availability
Available through authorized distributors including DigiKey, Mouser, and other major electronics suppliers. Consult your preferred distributor for current stock levels and pricing.
Why Choose XA3S500E-4CPG132I?
Advantages Over ASIC Solutions
The XA3S500E-4CPG132I offers significant advantages compared to traditional ASIC implementations:
- No NRE Costs: Eliminate expensive mask set charges
- Faster Time-to-Market: Immediate design iteration capability
- Field Upgradability: Update functionality without hardware changes
- Design Flexibility: Modify requirements during development
- Lower Risk: Validate designs before production commitment
Cost-Performance Balance
This FPGA strikes an optimal balance between capability and cost, providing:
- Sufficient logic resources for complex designs
- Automotive-grade reliability without premium pricing
- Compact package for space-efficient implementations
- Industry-proven architecture with extensive support
Technical Support and Community
Manufacturer Resources
AMD/Xilinx provides comprehensive technical support including:
- Online design tools and IP cores
- Technical documentation library
- Application engineering support
- Training and certification programs
- Active user community forums
Third-Party Ecosystem
Extensive ecosystem of development boards, IP vendors, and design services supporting Spartan-3E FPGAs ensures rapid development and proven solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between XA and XC Spartan-3E parts?
A: XA parts are automotive-grade with extended temperature range (-40°C to +125°C) and additional reliability screening. XC parts are commercial/industrial grade.
Q: Can I use commercial-grade development tools?
A: Yes, XA parts are fully compatible with standard Xilinx ISE and Vivado Design Suite software.
Q: What configuration memory is required?
A: The XA3S500E requires approximately 2.2 Mbit configuration memory, typically implemented with SPI flash.
Q: Is this FPGA suitable for safety-critical applications?
A: While automotive-grade, specific safety certification requirements should be evaluated for your application.
Conclusion
The XA3S500E-4CPG132I represents an excellent choice for automotive and industrial applications requiring reliable, cost-effective programmable logic. With 500K gates, automotive-grade qualification, and the proven Spartan-3E architecture, this FPGA delivers the performance and reliability needed for demanding applications while maintaining competitive pricing.
Whether you’re designing advanced driver assistance systems, industrial controllers, or communication equipment, the XA3S500E-4CPG132I provides the flexibility, performance, and quality required for successful product deployment.
For more information about this and other <a href=”https://pcbsync.com/xilinx-fpga/”>Xilinx FPGA</a> solutions, consult with your preferred authorized distributor or contact AMD/Xilinx technical support directly.
