The XC17S40PI is a high-performance one-time programmable (OTP) serial configuration PROM manufactured by Xilinx (now AMD). This reliable memory solution provides an easy-to-use, cost-effective method for storing configuration bitstreams for Spartan and Spartan-XL FPGA devices. Engineers and designers worldwide trust the XC17S40PI for industrial automation, telecommunications, and embedded system applications.
What Is the XC17S40PI Configuration PROM?
The XC17S40PI belongs to the Xilinx XC17S series of configuration PROMs specifically designed to store FPGA configuration data. As a serial PROM optimized for 40,000 system gate logic, this device delivers seamless integration with Xilinx FPGA platforms while maintaining exceptional reliability in demanding environments.
When your FPGA powers up, the XC17S40PI automatically loads the stored bitstream configuration, enabling rapid system initialization without external intervention.
XC17S40PI Key Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD) |
| Part Number |
XC17S40PI |
| Device Type |
Serial Configuration PROM |
| Memory Type |
One-Time Programmable (OTP) |
| Target FPGA Gates |
40,000 System Gates |
| Supply Voltage |
5V |
| Package Type |
20-Pin SOIC (Plastic) |
| Temperature Range |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
| Configuration Mode |
Serial (Master/Slave) |
XC17S40PI Package and Pinout Information
| Pin Name |
Pin Function |
Description |
| VCC |
Power Supply |
5V Power Input |
| GND |
Ground |
System Ground Reference |
| DATA |
Data Output |
Serial Configuration Data Output |
| CLK |
Clock Input |
Configuration Clock Signal |
| CE |
Chip Enable |
Active-Low Chip Enable |
| CEO |
Cascade Enable Output |
Daisy-Chain Output for Multiple PROMs |
| RESET/OE |
Reset/Output Enable |
Programmable Polarity Reset |
| NC |
No Connection |
Reserved Pins |
XC17S40PI Features and Benefits
High-Reliability OTP Memory Architecture
The XC17S40PI utilizes proven one-time programmable technology that ensures data retention exceeding 20 years. Once programmed, the configuration data remains permanently stored, eliminating concerns about data corruption or accidental erasure.
Simple FPGA Interface Design
Connecting the XC17S40PI to your Spartan FPGA requires only one user I/O pin. This streamlined interface reduces PCB complexity and minimizes routing challenges in space-constrained designs.
Flexible Configuration Modes
The XC17S40PI supports both Master Serial and Slave Serial configuration modes:
- Master Serial Mode: The FPGA generates the configuration clock, driving the PROM automatically
- Slave Serial Mode: An external clock source controls both PROM and FPGA timing
Programmable Reset Polarity
Engineers can configure the reset polarity as either active-high or active-low, ensuring compatibility with diverse system architectures and reset schemes.
Cascading Capability for Larger Designs
Multiple XC17S40PI devices can be daisy-chained using the CEO (Cascade Enable Output) pin, enabling configuration storage for larger FPGA designs exceeding single-device capacity.
XC17S40PI Compatible FPGA Families
| FPGA Family |
Compatibility |
Notes |
| Spartan |
✓ Full Support |
Primary target family |
| Spartan-XL |
✓ Full Support |
Optimized for 3.3V I/O |
| Spartan-II |
✓ Compatible |
May require level shifting |
| XC4000 Series |
✓ Compatible |
Legacy support available |
XC17S40PI Application Areas
Industrial Automation Systems
The XC17S40PI excels in industrial control applications where reliable FPGA configuration is critical for motor drives, PLC systems, and factory automation equipment.
Telecommunications Equipment
Network routers, switches, and communication infrastructure rely on the XC17S40PI for dependable FPGA initialization in mission-critical environments.
Embedded Systems Development
Prototype and production embedded systems benefit from the XC17S40PI’s straightforward programming and robust operation across extended temperature ranges.
Aerospace and Defense
The industrial temperature rating and proven reliability make the XC17S40PI suitable for demanding aerospace and defense applications.
How to Program the XC17S40PI
Step 1: Generate Configuration File
Use Xilinx ISE Foundation or ISE WebPACK software to compile your FPGA design into the standard HEX or MCS format compatible with PROM programmers.
Step 2: Select Programming Hardware
The XC17S40PI supports programming through industry-standard PROM programmers from manufacturers including Data I/O, BP Microsystems, and Xilinx development platforms.
Step 3: Verify Programming
After programming, always verify the configuration data integrity to ensure successful bitstream storage before deployment.
XC17S40PI vs. Alternative Configuration Solutions
| Feature |
XC17S40PI (OTP) |
Flash PROM |
EEPROM |
| Reprogrammability |
One-Time |
Multiple |
Multiple |
| Data Retention |
20+ Years |
10-20 Years |
10+ Years |
| Cost |
Low |
Medium |
Medium-High |
| Programming Speed |
Fast |
Moderate |
Slow |
| Security |
High |
Medium |
Medium |
| Best For |
Production |
Prototyping |
Field Updates |
XC17S40PI Ordering Information
| Part Number |
Package |
Temperature |
Voltage |
| XC17S40PI |
20-SOIC |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
5V |
| XC17S40PC |
20-SOIC |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
5V |
| XC17S40PD8I |
8-PDIP |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
5V |
| XC17S40PD8C |
8-PDIP |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
5V |
Frequently Asked Questions About XC17S40PI
What does “PI” mean in XC17S40PI?
The “PI” suffix indicates a Plastic package with Industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C), making it suitable for harsh operating environments.
Can the XC17S40PI be reprogrammed?
No. The XC17S40PI is a one-time programmable (OTP) device. Once programmed, the configuration data cannot be changed. For reprogrammable solutions, consider Xilinx Platform Flash or EEPROM alternatives.
What FPGA gate count does XC17S40PI support?
The XC17S40PI stores configuration bitstreams for FPGAs with up to 40,000 equivalent system gates, making it ideal for Spartan XCS30 and XCS40 devices.
How do I cascade multiple XC17S40PI devices?
Connect the CEO (Cascade Enable Output) pin of the first PROM to the CE (Chip Enable) pin of the next device. All CLK and DATA lines should be connected in parallel.
Conclusion
The XC17S40PI remains a trusted configuration memory solution for engineers designing with Spartan-family FPGAs. Its combination of industrial-grade reliability, simple interface requirements, and cost-effectiveness makes it an excellent choice for production applications where reprogramming is unnecessary.
Whether you’re developing industrial controllers, telecommunications equipment, or embedded systems, the XC17S40PI delivers the dependable FPGA configuration storage your design demands.
