The XC2C256-6TQG144C is a high-performance Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) from the Xilinx CoolRunner-II family. This 256-macrocell CPLD delivers exceptional speed and ultra-low power consumption in a compact 144-pin TQFP package. Designed for engineers seeking reliable programmable logic solutions, the XC2C256-6TQG144C combines instant-on capability with nonvolatile technology for demanding embedded applications.
Whether you’re designing portable electronics, industrial control systems, or high-speed communication equipment, this CPLD provides the flexibility and performance required for modern digital designs. Browse our complete selection of Xilinx FPGA products for your next project.
XC2C256-6TQG144C Key Features and Benefits
The XC2C256-6TQG144C stands out in the programmable logic market due to its unique combination of speed and power efficiency. The CoolRunner-II architecture employs Fast Zero Power (FZP) technology, enabling both high-performance operation and minimal power consumption in a single device.
Ultra-Low Power Consumption
Power efficiency remains critical for battery-operated devices and thermally constrained designs. The XC2C256-6TQG144C achieves standby current as low as 16μA and ultra-low standby power of just 28.8μW. This makes the device ideal for portable equipment where battery life is paramount.
High-Speed Performance
Despite its low power characteristics, the XC2C256-6TQG144C delivers impressive timing performance with pin-to-pin delays as fast as 5.7 nanoseconds. The device operates at frequencies up to 256MHz, supporting demanding data processing requirements.
Advanced Power-Saving Technologies
The CoolRunner-II family incorporates several innovative power management features including DataGATE for selective input disabling, CoolCLOCK technology for reduced dynamic power, and DualEDGE flip-flops for efficient synchronous operation at lower clock frequencies.
XC2C256-6TQG144C Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Part Number |
XC2C256-6TQG144C |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD) |
| Device Family |
CoolRunner-II CPLD |
| Macrocells |
256 |
| Equivalent Gates |
6,000 |
| Maximum Frequency |
256 MHz |
| User I/O Pins |
118 |
| Package Type |
144-Pin TQFP |
| Speed Grade |
-6 |
| Pin-to-Pin Delay |
5.7 ns (typical) |
| Operating Temperature |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| RoHS Compliance |
Compliant |
XC2C256-6TQG144C Electrical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Minimum |
Typical |
Maximum |
Unit |
| Core Voltage (VCCINT) |
1.7 |
1.8 |
1.9 |
V |
| I/O Voltage (VCCIO) |
1.5 |
– |
3.3 |
V |
| Standby Current |
– |
13 |
16 |
μA |
| Standby Power |
– |
28.8 |
– |
μW |
| Input Voltage (VI) |
-0.5 |
– |
VCCIO + 0.5 |
V |
Supported I/O Standards for XC2C256-6TQG144C
The XC2C256-6TQG144C supports multiple I/O voltage standards, enabling seamless integration with various system components and voltage domains.
| I/O Standard |
Output VCCIO |
Input VCCIO |
VREF |
Description |
| LVTTL |
3.3V |
3.3V |
N/A |
Low-Voltage TTL |
| LVCMOS33 |
3.3V |
3.3V |
N/A |
Low-Voltage CMOS 3.3V |
| LVCMOS25 |
2.5V |
2.5V |
N/A |
Low-Voltage CMOS 2.5V |
| LVCMOS18 |
1.8V |
1.8V |
N/A |
Low-Voltage CMOS 1.8V |
| 1.5V I/O |
1.5V |
1.5V |
N/A |
1.5V Compatible |
| HSTL-1 |
1.5V |
1.5V |
0.75V |
High-Speed Transceiver Logic |
| SSTL2-1 |
2.5V |
2.5V |
1.25V |
Stub Series Terminated Logic |
| SSTL3-1 |
3.3V |
3.3V |
1.5V |
Stub Series Terminated Logic |
XC2C256-6TQG144C Architecture Overview
The internal architecture of the XC2C256-6TQG144C consists of eight Function Blocks interconnected through a low-power Advanced Interconnect Matrix (AIM). This architecture delivers efficient logic synthesis and routing capabilities.
Function Block Structure
Each Function Block receives 40 true and complement inputs from the AIM, providing extensive routing flexibility. The architecture supports efficient implementation of complex logic functions while maintaining predictable timing characteristics.
I/O Banking Configuration
The XC2C256-6TQG144C features two I/O banks, allowing designers to interface with multiple voltage domains simultaneously. This banking structure simplifies board design when connecting to devices operating at different voltage levels such as 3.3V, 2.5V, 1.8V, and 1.5V systems.
Package Information for XC2C256-6TQG144C
| Package Parameter |
Specification |
| Package Type |
TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
144 Pins |
| Body Size |
20mm × 20mm |
| Pin Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Lead-Free |
Yes (Pb-Free) |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level |
MSL 3 |
Typical Applications for XC2C256-6TQG144C CPLD
The XC2C256-6TQG144C serves diverse application requirements across multiple industries:
Consumer Electronics
Portable devices, handheld instruments, and battery-powered equipment benefit from the ultra-low standby power and instant-on capability of this CPLD.
Industrial Automation
Factory automation systems, programmable controllers, and industrial interfaces utilize the XC2C256-6TQG144C for reliable glue logic and system interface functions.
Telecommunications Equipment
Network switches, routers, and communication modules leverage the high-speed performance for protocol conversion and data path control applications.
Medical Devices
Portable diagnostic equipment and monitoring systems take advantage of the low power consumption and nonvolatile programming capability.
Automotive Systems
Infotainment systems and body electronics benefit from the wide operating temperature range and robust design of the CoolRunner-II architecture.
Development Tools and Software Support
The XC2C256-6TQG144C is fully supported by Xilinx ISE WebPACK design software. This free development environment provides complete synthesis, implementation, and programming capabilities for CoolRunner-II devices.
Programming Options
| Programming Method |
Description |
| In-System Programming (ISP) |
JTAG-based programming while installed on PCB |
| IEEE 1532 |
Standard boundary-scan programming support |
| External Programmer |
Compatible with third-party device programmers |
XC2C256-6TQG144C Ordering Information
| Order Code |
Description |
Temperature Range |
| XC2C256-6TQG144C |
Commercial Grade, Lead-Free |
0°C to +70°C |
| XC2C256-6TQG144I |
Industrial Grade, Lead-Free |
-40°C to +85°C |
Why Choose the XC2C256-6TQG144C for Your Design
The XC2C256-6TQG144C represents an optimal balance of performance, power efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for programmable logic applications. Key advantages include:
- Instant-On Operation: Nonvolatile configuration eliminates boot time
- Single-Chip Solution: Reduces BOM complexity and board space
- Multi-Voltage Flexibility: Interfaces with 1.5V to 3.3V systems
- In-System Programmable: Enables field updates and design iterations
- Low Power Design: Extends battery life in portable applications
- High Reliability: Proven 0.18μm CMOS technology
Related CoolRunner-II CPLD Products
| Part Number |
Macrocells |
I/O Pins |
Package |
| XC2C32A |
32 |
33 |
QFG32, VQG44, CPG56 |
| XC2C64A |
64 |
64 |
VQG44, VQG100, CPG56 |
| XC2C128 |
128 |
100 |
VQ100, TQ144, CP132 |
| XC2C256 |
256 |
118 |
VQ100, TQ144, FT256 |
| XC2C384 |
384 |
240 |
TQ144, PQ208, FG324 |
| XC2C512 |
512 |
270 |
PQ208, FG324 |
Conclusion
The XC2C256-6TQG144C delivers the performance and efficiency needed for modern embedded system designs. Its combination of 256 macrocells, 118 user I/O pins, and ultra-low power consumption makes it suitable for applications ranging from portable electronics to industrial control systems. The proven CoolRunner-II architecture ensures reliable operation while advanced features like DataGATE and CoolCLOCK provide additional power optimization options for demanding designs.
