The XC2C256-6VQG100C is a high-performance Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) from the Xilinx CoolRunner-II family. This 256-macrocell CPLD delivers exceptional speed with ultra-low power consumption, making it ideal for portable electronics, industrial automation, and communication equipment. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the XC2C256-6VQG100C specifications, features, and applications.
XC2C256-6VQG100C Overview and Key Features
The XC2C256-6VQG100C belongs to Xilinx’s renowned CoolRunner-II series, which combines high-speed performance with industry-leading low power consumption. This device is specifically optimized for 1.8V systems while supporting multi-voltage I/O operations ranging from 1.5V to 3.3V.
Why Choose the XC2C256-6VQG100C CPLD?
Engineers select the XC2C256-6VQG100C for several compelling reasons. First, it offers pin-to-pin delays as fast as 5.7 ns, ensuring rapid signal propagation. Second, the quiescent current can be as low as 13 μA, extending battery life in portable applications. Additionally, the 0.18-micron CMOS technology provides an optimized architecture for effective logic synthesis.
XC2C256-6VQG100C Technical Specifications
Understanding the complete specifications helps engineers make informed decisions. Below are the detailed technical parameters for the XC2C256-6VQG100C.
General Specifications Table
| Parameter |
Value |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD) |
| Product Family |
CoolRunner-II |
| Part Number |
XC2C256-6VQG100C |
| Device Type |
CPLD |
| Number of Macrocells |
256 |
| Equivalent Gates |
6,000 |
| Function Blocks |
8 |
| Technology |
0.18 μm CMOS |
Electrical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Core Operating Voltage |
1.8V |
| I/O Voltage Range |
1.5V to 3.3V |
| Maximum Operating Frequency |
256 MHz |
| Propagation Delay (Pin-to-Pin) |
5.7 ns |
| Quiescent Current |
13 μA (typical) |
| Number of I/O Pins |
80 |
| I/O Banks |
2 |
Operating Conditions
| Condition |
Rating |
| Minimum Operating Temperature |
0°C |
| Maximum Operating Temperature |
+70°C |
| Temperature Grade |
Commercial (C) |
| Mounting Style |
SMD/SMT |
| Package Type |
100-Pin VQFP |
| Lead-Free Option |
Available |
XC2C256-6VQG100C Architecture Details
The XC2C256-6VQG100C features a sophisticated internal architecture designed for optimal performance. Understanding this architecture helps designers maximize device utilization.
Advanced Interconnect Matrix (AIM)
The device consists of eight Function Blocks interconnected by a low-power Advanced Interconnect Matrix. The AIM feeds 40 true and complement inputs to each Function Block, enabling flexible signal routing with minimal propagation delays.
CoolRunner-II Unique Features
CoolCLOCK Technology
The XC2C256-6VQG100C incorporates CoolCLOCK technology, which combines clock division with DualEDGE flip-flops. This feature allows high-performance synchronous operation at lower clock frequencies, significantly reducing overall power consumption.
DataGATE Function
DataGATE selectively disables unused CPLD inputs during specific operations. By reducing signal switching on inactive inputs, this feature further decreases dynamic power consumption without compromising performance.
DualEDGE Flip-Flops
Available on a per-macrocell basis, DualEDGE flip-flops enable data capture on both rising and falling clock edges. This capability effectively doubles the data throughput while maintaining the same clock frequency.
XC2C256-6VQG100C Package Information
100-Pin VQFP Package Details
| Package Attribute |
Value |
| Package Type |
VQFP (Very thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
100 |
| User I/O Pins |
80 |
| Package Dimensions |
14mm x 14mm |
| Pin Pitch |
0.5mm |
| RoHS Compliance |
Yes |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level |
MSL 3 |
XC2C256-6VQG100C Part Number Decoder
Understanding the part number helps identify exact device specifications:
| Code Segment |
Meaning |
| XC2C |
Xilinx CoolRunner-II Family |
| 256 |
256 Macrocells |
| 6 |
Speed Grade (-6 = Fastest Commercial) |
| VQ |
Very thin Quad Flat Package |
| G |
Lead-Free (Green) |
| 100 |
100-Pin Package |
| C |
Commercial Temperature (0°C to +70°C) |
XC2C256-6VQG100C Applications
The XC2C256-6VQG100C serves diverse applications across multiple industries due to its unique combination of speed and low power consumption.
Industrial Applications
- Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Motor control systems
- Sensor interface circuits
- Industrial communication bridges
Consumer Electronics
- Portable medical devices
- Battery-powered instruments
- Handheld gaming devices
- Wearable technology
Communication Equipment
- Protocol conversion
- Interface bridging
- Timing and control logic
- Signal conditioning
Automotive Systems
- Body electronics
- Infotainment interfaces
- Dashboard controllers
- Lighting systems
XC2C256-6VQG100C Design Considerations
Voltage Level Translation
The XC2C256-6VQG100C features two I/O banks that support independent voltage levels. This capability enables seamless interfacing with 3.3V, 2.5V, 1.8V, and 1.5V devices within the same design, eliminating the need for external level shifters.
Development Tools
Designers can program the XC2C256-6VQG100C using Xilinx ISE Design Suite. While Vivado supports newer FPGA families, ISE remains the primary tool for CoolRunner-II CPLDs. The software supports VHDL and Verilog design entry, along with schematic capture.
JTAG Programming Interface
The device supports IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary scan, enabling in-system programming and testing. This feature simplifies production programming and facilitates board-level testing.
XC2C256-6VQG100C vs. Alternative Devices
Speed Grade Comparison
| Part Number |
Speed Grade |
Max Frequency |
Propagation Delay |
| XC2C256-4VQG100C |
-4 |
152 MHz |
7.5 ns |
| XC2C256-5VQG100C |
-5 |
200 MHz |
6.2 ns |
| XC2C256-6VQG100C |
-6 |
256 MHz |
5.7 ns |
| XC2C256-7VQG100C |
-7 |
152 MHz |
6.7 ns |
Package Alternatives
| Part Number |
Package |
Pins |
User I/Os |
| XC2C256-6VQG100C |
VQFP |
100 |
80 |
| XC2C256-6TQG144C |
TQFP |
144 |
118 |
| XC2C256-6CP132C |
BGA |
132 |
106 |
| XC2C256-6PQG208C |
PQFP |
208 |
173 |
| XC2C256-6FTG256C |
BGA |
256 |
184 |
I/O Standards Supported by XC2C256-6VQG100C
The XC2C256-6VQG100C supports multiple JEDEC I/O standards for maximum design flexibility.
| I/O Standard |
Voltage Level |
Support |
| LVCMOS33 |
3.3V |
Yes |
| LVCMOS25 |
2.5V |
Yes |
| LVCMOS18 |
1.8V |
Yes |
| LVCMOS15 |
1.5V |
Yes |
| SSTL2-I |
2.5V |
Yes |
| SSTL3-I |
3.3V |
Yes |
| HSTL-I |
1.5V |
Yes |
Where to Buy XC2C256-6VQG100C
The XC2C256-6VQG100C is available from authorized distributors worldwide. For more information about this device and other programmable logic solutions, visit our Xilinx FPGA product page.
XC2C256-6VQG100C Summary
The XC2C256-6VQG100C delivers an exceptional balance of performance and power efficiency. With 256 macrocells, 5.7 ns propagation delays, and ultra-low 13 μA standby current, this CoolRunner-II CPLD addresses demanding applications in portable, industrial, and communication systems. The 100-pin VQFP package with 80 user I/Os provides sufficient connectivity for most designs while maintaining a compact footprint.
Whether you’re designing battery-powered devices requiring minimal current draw or high-speed interfaces demanding fast signal propagation, the XC2C256-6VQG100C offers the features and performance necessary to meet your design goals.
