The XC2C128-6TQ144C is a high-performance Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) from AMD’s (formerly Xilinx) acclaimed CoolRunner-II family. This 128-macrocell CPLD combines ultra-low power consumption with exceptional speed, making it the ideal choice for battery-operated devices, industrial automation, consumer electronics, and telecommunications applications. With its instant-on capability and zero-power hold time, the XC2C128-6TQ144C delivers reliable performance for mission-critical applications.
Key Features and Technical Specifications
Core Architecture and Logic Capacity
| Specification |
Value |
| Logic Capacity |
128 Macrocells |
| Function Blocks |
8 |
| Total Gates |
3,000 Gates |
| User I/O Pins |
100 |
| System Gates |
6,000 |
| Technology |
0.18μm CMOS |
Performance Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Maximum Pin-to-Pin Delay |
5.7 ns |
| Maximum Operating Frequency |
152 MHz (fCNT) |
| Speed Grade |
-6 (Industrial grade) |
| tSU (Setup Time) |
3.5 ns |
| tCO (Clock-to-Output) |
3.5 ns |
| Propagation Delay (tPD) |
5.7 ns (Maximum) |
Power Consumption and Voltage Requirements
| Power Parameter |
Value |
| Supply Voltage (VCCINT) |
1.7V – 1.9V (typical 1.8V) |
| I/O Voltage (VCCIO) |
1.5V – 3.3V |
| Standby Current |
13 μA (typical) |
| Dynamic Current |
Ultra-low power |
| Power Dissipation |
Near-zero static power |
Package and Environmental Specifications
| Package Detail |
Specification |
| Package Type |
TQ144 (144-pin TQFP) |
| Package Dimensions |
20mm x 20mm |
| Pin Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Lead-Free |
Yes (RoHS Compliant) |
| Temperature Range |
0°C to +70°C (Commercial Grade C) |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level |
MSL 3 |
| Weight |
46.1 mg (typical) |
Advanced Technology Features
CoolRunner-II Architecture Benefits
The XC2C128-6TQ144C implements AMD’s revolutionary CoolRunner-II architecture, delivering industry-leading power efficiency without compromising performance. This advanced CPLD features:
Ultra-Low Power Consumption
The device achieves exceptional power efficiency through innovative power management technologies. With standby current as low as 13 μA, the XC2C128-6TQ144C is perfect for battery-powered applications where extended operation time is critical. The zero-power hold time eliminates the need for battery backup, reducing system costs and complexity.
Instant-On Capability
Unlike traditional FPGAs that require configuration time during power-up, the XC2C128-6TQ144C features instant-on capability with zero configuration delay. This non-volatile architecture means your design is immediately operational upon power application, making it ideal for applications requiring immediate functionality.
Advanced Interconnect Matrix (AIM)
The proprietary AIM technology provides efficient signal routing between function blocks while minimizing power consumption and maximizing performance. This sophisticated interconnect structure ensures optimal resource utilization and simplified timing closure.
Flexible I/O Architecture
The XC2C128-6TQ144C features versatile I/O capabilities supporting multiple industry-standard voltage levels:
| I/O Standard |
VCCIO |
Input VREF |
Application |
| LVCMOS33 |
3.3V |
N/A |
Legacy interfaces |
| LVCMOS25 |
2.5V |
N/A |
Standard logic |
| LVCMOS18 |
1.8V |
N/A |
Low-voltage systems |
| LVCMOS15 |
1.5V |
N/A |
Ultra-low power |
| HSTL_I |
1.5V |
0.75V |
High-speed interfaces |
| SSTL2_I |
2.5V |
1.25V |
Memory interfaces |
| SSTL3_I |
3.3V |
1.5V |
DDR memory |
Understanding the Part Number: XC2C128-6TQ144C
Breaking down the part number provides critical device information:
- XC2C128: CoolRunner-II family with 128 macrocells
- 6: Speed grade (-6), indicating 5.7ns maximum pin-to-pin delay
- TQ144: 144-pin Thin Quad Flat Pack package
- C: Commercial temperature grade (0°C to +70°C)
Primary Application Areas
Industrial Automation and Control Systems
The XC2C128-6TQ144C excels in industrial environments with its:
- Deterministic performance for real-time control
- Robust operation in commercial temperature ranges
- Glitch-free power-up for safety-critical applications
- Support for multiple sensor and actuator interfaces
Portable and Battery-Operated Devices
Perfect for mobile applications including:
- Smartphones and tablets
- Wearable technology and fitness trackers
- Portable medical devices
- IoT sensors and edge computing nodes
Consumer Electronics
Widely deployed in:
- Smart home automation systems
- Home entertainment equipment
- Gaming peripherals
- Audio/video processing devices
Telecommunications Equipment
Ideal for networking applications:
- Router and switch control logic
- Protocol conversion interfaces
- Signal conditioning circuits
- Line card control functions
Design Implementation and Programming
Development Tools and Software
The XC2C128-6TQ144C is supported by comprehensive design tools from AMD (Xilinx):
ISE WebPACK – Free development environment providing:
- Schematic capture tools
- HDL synthesis for VHDL and Verilog
- Implementation and place-and-route
- Timing analysis and constraint management
- Device programming interface
ISE Design Suite – Professional edition featuring:
- Advanced optimization algorithms
- Power analysis tools
- Signal integrity analysis
- Enhanced debugging capabilities
Programming and Configuration Methods
The device supports industry-standard JTAG programming via:
- IEEE 1149.1 Boundary-Scan: Standard JTAG testing
- IEEE 1532: In-System Configuration (ISC) programming
- In-System Programming (ISP): Field upgrades without removal
- Serial programming: Quick configuration updates
Design Entry Methodologies
Engineers can implement designs using:
- Schematic Capture: Graphical design entry for straightforward logic
- VHDL: High-level hardware description for complex algorithms
- Verilog: Industry-standard HDL for mixed-signal designs
- State Machine Design: Built-in templates for FSM implementation
Comparison with Similar CPLDs
XC2C128 vs. XC2C64 Series
| Feature |
XC2C128-6TQ144C |
XC2C64 |
| Macrocells |
128 |
64 |
| Logic Capacity |
2x larger |
Baseline |
| I/O Pins |
Up to 100 |
Up to 64 |
| Price Point |
Higher |
More economical |
| Best For |
Complex designs |
Simple logic |
XC2C128 vs. XC2C256 Series
| Feature |
XC2C128-6TQ144C |
XC2C256 |
| Macrocells |
128 |
256 |
| Power Consumption |
Lower |
Slightly higher |
| Cost |
More economical |
Premium |
| Complexity Handling |
Moderate |
High complexity |
Advantages of Choosing XC2C128-6TQ144C
Performance Excellence
- Fast 5.7ns pin-to-pin delays enable high-speed applications
- 152 MHz maximum operating frequency
- Predictable timing for critical path optimization
- Low-skew clock distribution
Power Efficiency Leadership
- Industry-leading 13 μA standby current
- Zero-power hold eliminates battery backup
- Dynamic power management reduces active consumption
- Ideal for always-on applications
Design Flexibility
- 128 macrocells handle moderately complex logic
- 100 user I/O pins provide extensive connectivity
- Multiple voltage standard support
- Flexible pin assignment
Reliability and Quality
- Non-volatile Flash technology
- Unlimited reprogramming cycles
- ESD protection on all pins
- Industrial-grade quality standards
Integration with Xilinx FPGA Ecosystem
The XC2C128-6TQ144C seamlessly integrates into AMD’s broader programmable logic portfolio. For applications requiring greater logic density or DSP capabilities, designers can leverage Xilinx FPGA solutions while maintaining similar design methodologies and tool chains. The CoolRunner-II CPLDs complement FPGA implementations by handling glue logic, I/O expansion, and power sequencing tasks.
Design Considerations and Best Practices
Power Supply Design
Implement robust power delivery with:
- Separate VCCINT (1.8V core) and VCCIO (variable I/O) supplies
- Adequate decoupling capacitors (0.1μF and 10μF recommended)
- Low-noise power planes
- Proper ground plane implementation
PCB Layout Guidelines
Optimize board design with:
- Controlled impedance traces for high-speed signals
- Short clock distribution paths
- Dedicated return paths for signals
- Thermal relief for programming connections
Thermal Management
Ensure reliable operation through:
- Adequate airflow in enclosed systems
- Thermal vias for heat dissipation
- Junction temperature monitoring
- Derating for high-temperature environments
Quality and Reliability Standards
The XC2C128-6TQ144C meets rigorous quality standards:
| Standard |
Compliance |
| RoHS |
Fully compliant |
| REACH |
Registered |
| Conflict Minerals |
Compliant |
| ISO 9001 |
Certified manufacturing |
| Automotive (AEC-Q100) |
Available in automotive grades |
Conclusion: Why Choose XC2C128-6TQ144C
The XC2C128-6TQ144C represents an optimal balance of performance, power efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for modern digital designs. Its ultra-low power consumption, instant-on capability, and flexible I/O architecture make it the preferred choice for battery-operated devices, industrial controls, and consumer electronics. With comprehensive development tool support and proven reliability, the XC2C128-6TQ144C delivers exceptional value for applications requiring 128 macrocells of programmable logic.
Whether you’re designing portable medical devices, industrial automation systems, or smart consumer products, the XC2C128-6TQ144C provides the perfect combination of features to bring your innovative designs to life efficiently and reliably.
Technical Support and Resources
For successful implementation:
- Consult the complete datasheet for detailed electrical specifications
- Access AMD’s extensive documentation library
- Utilize the TechForum for community support
- Download reference designs and application notes
- Contact authorized distributors for samples and pricing