The XC18V02VQ44C is a high-performance, in-system programmable configuration PROM manufactured by AMD (formerly Xilinx). This 2-megabit EEPROM is specifically designed for storing and loading configuration bitstreams into Xilinx FPGA devices, making it an essential component for embedded systems, industrial automation, and telecommunications applications.
XC18V02VQ44C Overview and Key Features
The XC18V02VQ44C belongs to the XC18V00 series of configuration memory devices, providing engineers and designers with a cost-effective, reliable solution for FPGA configuration storage. This PROM supports both serial and parallel configuration modes, offering exceptional flexibility in system design.
Primary Features of the XC18V02VQ44C
- In-system programmable 3.3V PROM technology
- 2-megabit (256K x 8) memory capacity
- 20ns access time for high-speed configuration
- Dual configuration modes (serial and parallel)
- JTAG boundary-scan support (IEEE Std 1149.1)
- Low-power advanced CMOS FLASH process
- Cascadable design for longer bitstreams
- 5V-tolerant I/O pins accepting 5V, 3.3V, and 2.5V signals
XC18V02VQ44C Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC18V02VQ44C |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (Xilinx) |
| Memory Type |
EEPROM / Configuration PROM |
| Memory Size |
2 Mbit (2,097,152 bits) |
| Memory Organization |
256K x 8 |
| Access Time |
20ns |
| Supply Voltage |
3.3V |
| Output Voltage |
3.3V or 2.5V Capability |
| Package Type |
44-Pin VQFP (VQ44) |
| Package Dimensions |
10mm x 10mm |
| Temperature Grade |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| Technology |
CMOS FLASH |
XC18V02VQ44C Package Information
| Specification |
Details |
| Package Code |
VQ44 / VQFP-44 |
| Pin Count |
44 Pins |
| Package Shape |
Square |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount (SMD) |
| Lead-Free Status |
RoHS Compliant |
| MSL Rating |
Level 3 |
XC18V02VQ44C Configuration Modes and Performance
The XC18V02VQ44C supports multiple configuration modes to accommodate various FPGA design requirements.
Serial Configuration Mode
When operating in serial mode, the configuration data is transmitted bit-by-bit through the DATA (D0) pin. This mode supports clock frequencies up to 33 MHz, delivering reliable configuration for applications where pin count is a concern.
Parallel Configuration Mode
The parallel mode enables data transfer through all eight DATA pins (D0-D7), achieving configuration speeds up to 264 Mb/s at 33 MHz. This high-speed mode significantly reduces FPGA boot time in performance-critical applications.
| Configuration Mode |
Data Width |
Max Clock |
Max Throughput |
| Serial Slow |
1-bit |
33 MHz |
33 Mb/s |
| Serial Fast |
1-bit |
33 MHz |
33 Mb/s |
| Parallel (SelectMAP) |
8-bit |
33 MHz |
264 Mb/s |
XC18V02VQ44C Electrical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Min |
Typ |
Max |
Unit |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) |
3.0 |
3.3 |
3.6 |
V |
| Input High Voltage (VIH) |
2.0 |
– |
5.5 |
V |
| Input Low Voltage (VIL) |
-0.5 |
– |
0.8 |
V |
| Output High Voltage (VOH) |
2.4 |
– |
– |
V |
| Output Low Voltage (VOL) |
– |
– |
0.4 |
V |
| Standby Current (ICC) |
– |
100 |
500 |
µA |
| Operating Current |
– |
10 |
15 |
mA |
XC18V02VQ44C Endurance and Reliability
| Parameter |
Value |
| Program/Erase Cycles |
20,000 cycles minimum |
| Data Retention |
20 years |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to +70°C |
| Storage Temperature |
-65°C to +150°C |
| ESD Protection |
Human Body Model: 2000V |
XC18V02VQ44C Applications
The XC18V02VQ44C configuration PROM is widely used across multiple industries and applications.
Industrial Applications
- Programmable logic controller (PLC) systems
- Industrial automation equipment
- Motor control systems
- Process control instrumentation
Telecommunications Applications
- Network switches and routers
- Base station equipment
- Signal processing systems
- Communication infrastructure
Consumer Electronics Applications
- Digital video processing
- Audio equipment
- Gaming systems
- Display controllers
Aerospace and Defense Applications
- Avionics systems
- Radar processing units
- Secure communication systems
- Navigation equipment
XC18V02VQ44C JTAG Programming Support
The XC18V02VQ44C features full IEEE Std 1149.1 boundary-scan (JTAG) support, enabling convenient in-system programming and testing capabilities.
JTAG Features
- Standard 4-wire JTAG interface (TCK, TMS, TDI, TDO)
- In-system programming without removing the device
- JTAG command initiation of standard FPGA configuration
- Compatible with Xilinx ISE Foundation software packages
- Supports daisy-chain configuration with multiple devices
XC18V02VQ44C Cascading Capability
For applications requiring larger bitstreams, multiple XC18V02VQ44C devices can be cascaded together using the CEO (Chip Enable Output) signal.
Cascading Benefits
- Store bitstreams larger than 2 Mbit
- Support multiple FPGA configurations
- Compatible with XC17V00 one-time programmable PROMs
- Simple interconnection of clock and data lines
XC18V02VQ44C vs Alternative Configuration Solutions
| Feature |
XC18V02VQ44C |
Standard EEPROM |
SPI Flash |
| In-System Programmable |
Yes |
Limited |
Yes |
| JTAG Support |
Yes |
No |
No |
| FPGA-Optimized Interface |
Yes |
No |
No |
| Parallel Mode Support |
Yes |
No |
No |
| Cascading Support |
Yes |
No |
Limited |
| Xilinx ISE Support |
Yes |
No |
No |
XC18V02VQ44C Design Considerations
Power Supply Requirements
- Provide stable 3.3V supply with proper decoupling
- Use 100nF ceramic capacitors near VCC pins
- Ensure adequate power supply filtering
PCB Layout Guidelines
- Place PROM close to target FPGA
- Minimize trace lengths for clock and data signals
- Use ground plane for noise reduction
- Follow recommended land pattern for VQ44 package
Signal Integrity
- Match impedance for high-speed signals
- Use series termination resistors if necessary
- Keep clock traces short and direct
XC18V02VQ44C Ordering Information
| Order Code |
Description |
| XC18V02VQ44C |
2Mbit PROM, 44-Pin VQFP, Commercial Grade |
| XC18V02VQ44I |
2Mbit PROM, 44-Pin VQFP, Industrial Grade |
| XC18V02PC44C |
2Mbit PROM, 44-Pin PLCC, Commercial Grade |
XC18V02VQ44C Related Products in XC18V00 Family
| Part Number |
Memory Size |
Description |
| XC18V512 |
512 Kbit |
Entry-level configuration PROM |
| XC18V01 |
1 Mbit |
Standard configuration PROM |
| XC18V02 |
2 Mbit |
Medium-density configuration PROM |
| XC18V04 |
4 Mbit |
High-density configuration PROM |
Why Choose the XC18V02VQ44C Configuration PROM
The XC18V02VQ44C offers several advantages for FPGA configuration storage.
Cost-Effective Solution
The XC18V02VQ44C provides an economical approach to FPGA configuration, eliminating the need for complex external memory interfaces while ensuring reliable bitstream storage.
Design Flexibility
With support for both serial and parallel configuration modes, the XC18V02VQ44C adapts to various design requirements, from pin-constrained applications to high-performance systems requiring fast boot times.
Long-Term Reliability
The 20,000 program/erase cycle endurance and 20-year data retention make the XC18V02VQ44C suitable for applications requiring frequent updates and long operational lifetimes.
Simplified Development
Full compatibility with Xilinx ISE Foundation software packages streamlines the development process, allowing engineers to program and verify configurations using familiar tools.
Conclusion
The XC18V02VQ44C is a versatile, reliable configuration PROM that serves as an ideal companion for FPGA-based designs. Its combination of in-system programmability, multiple configuration modes, and JTAG support makes it a preferred choice for engineers seeking a robust configuration storage solution. Whether you’re developing industrial control systems, telecommunications equipment, or consumer electronics, the XC18V02VQ44C delivers the performance and reliability required for successful FPGA implementations.
