The XC2C256-7TQ144CMS is a high-performance Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) from the Xilinx CoolRunner-II family. This 256-macrocell CPLD delivers exceptional low-power operation combined with fast pin-to-pin delays, making it an ideal choice for portable electronics, telecommunications equipment, and industrial control applications. Whether you’re designing battery-operated devices or high-speed communication systems, the XC2C256-7TQ144CMS offers the perfect balance of performance and power efficiency.
XC2C256-7TQ144CMS Key Specifications
Understanding the technical specifications helps engineers make informed decisions. Below is a comprehensive overview of the XC2C256-7TQ144CMS parameters.
Technical Attributes Table
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD) |
| Product Family |
CoolRunner-II CPLD |
| Part Number |
XC2C256-7TQ144CMS |
| Macrocells |
256 |
| Equivalent Gates |
6,000 |
| Maximum Frequency |
152 MHz |
| Pin-to-Pin Delay |
5.7 ns (typical) |
| Package Type |
144-Pin TQFP |
| User I/O Pins |
118 |
| Core Voltage |
1.8V |
| I/O Voltage Range |
1.5V to 3.3V |
| Process Technology |
0.18μm CMOS |
| Quiescent Current |
As low as 13 μA |
| Operating Temperature |
Commercial |
CoolRunner-II CPLD Architecture Overview
The XC2C256-7TQ144CMS features a sophisticated architecture designed for optimal logic synthesis and minimal power consumption.
Function Block Structure
This device consists of eight interconnected Function Blocks linked through Xilinx’s proprietary Advanced Interconnect Matrix (AIM). Each Function Block receives 40 true and complement inputs from the AIM, ensuring flexible signal routing throughout the device.
| Component |
Description |
| Function Blocks |
8 blocks with 40×56 P-term PLA |
| Macrocells per Block |
16 macrocells |
| Interconnect Matrix |
Low-power AIM technology |
| Global Clocks |
3 synchronous clock sources |
| I/O Banks |
2 independent banks |
Macrocell Configuration Options
The macrocells within the XC2C256-7TQ144CMS offer extensive configurability for various design requirements. Engineers can configure each macrocell as a D flip-flop, T flip-flop, or D latch. Additionally, registers can be globally reset or preset based on design needs.
XC2C256-7TQ144CMS Features and Benefits
Power-Saving Technologies
The CoolRunner-II family incorporates several innovative features that minimize power consumption without sacrificing performance.
CoolCLOCK Technology: This feature combines clock division (by 2) with DualEDGE flip-flop operation, enabling high-performance synchronous designs at lower clock frequencies. The result is significantly reduced dynamic power consumption.
DataGATE Function: By selectively disabling unused inputs during specific operational periods, DataGATE reduces unnecessary signal switching and further lowers power usage.
Multi-Voltage I/O Support
| I/O Voltage |
Compatibility |
| 3.3V |
Full support |
| 2.5V |
Full support |
| 1.8V |
Optimized operation |
| 1.5V |
Schmitt-trigger inputs |
The dual I/O banking architecture allows designers to interface with multiple voltage domains simultaneously, simplifying mixed-voltage system designs.
Pin Configuration and Package Information
144-Pin TQFP Package Details
| Package Attribute |
Value |
| Package Type |
TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| Total Pins |
144 |
| User I/O |
118 |
| Lead Pitch |
0.5 mm |
| Body Size |
20 × 20 mm |
| Pb-Free Option |
Available |
Output Pin Features
The XC2C256-7TQ144CMS provides multiple output pin configuration options to match specific application requirements. Supported output configurations include slew rate limiting for reduced EMI, bus hold for maintaining stable signal levels, programmable pull-up resistors, open-drain outputs, and programmable grounds.
XC2C256-7TQ144CMS Application Areas
This versatile CPLD serves numerous industries and applications due to its combination of low power consumption and high-speed operation.
Industrial Applications
| Industry |
Use Cases |
| Telecommunications |
Protocol conversion, signal routing |
| Consumer Electronics |
Power management, interface bridging |
| Industrial Control |
PLC interfaces, motor control logic |
| Medical Equipment |
Sensor interfaces, data acquisition |
| IoT Devices |
Edge processing, communication protocols |
| Automotive |
Body control modules, infotainment systems |
For designers working with Xilinx FPGA platforms, the XC2C256-7TQ144CMS provides an excellent complementary solution for glue logic, power sequencing, and interface conversion tasks.
Clock Management Capabilities
Global and Local Clocking
The XC2C256-7TQ144CMS offers sophisticated clock management capabilities. Three global clocks are available for synchronous operation across all Function Blocks. Additionally, local product-term clocks can be configured on a per-macrocell or per-Function Block basis.
Clock Divider Options
| Division Factor |
Available |
| ÷2 |
Yes |
| ÷4 |
Yes |
| ÷6 |
Yes |
| ÷8 |
Yes |
| ÷10 |
Yes |
| ÷12 |
Yes |
| ÷14 |
Yes |
| ÷16 |
Yes |
The global clock (GCK2) can be divided by eight different selections, providing both even and odd frequency division options for flexible timing designs.
Design Tools and Development Support
Xilinx Development Software
Engineers can develop designs for the XC2C256-7TQ144CMS using Xilinx ISE Design Suite. This comprehensive toolchain supports VHDL, Verilog, and schematic entry methods for design capture.
Programming Interface
| Feature |
Support |
| JTAG Programming |
Full IEEE 1149.1 compliance |
| In-System Programming |
Yes |
| Boundary Scan |
Supported |
| Configuration Storage |
Non-volatile |
Ordering Information and Part Number Variants
XC2C256 Series Comparison
| Part Number |
Speed Grade |
Package |
Temperature |
| XC2C256-7TQ144CMS |
-7 |
144-TQFP |
Commercial |
| XC2C256-7TQ144C |
-7 |
144-TQFP |
Commercial |
| XC2C256-7TQ144I |
-7 |
144-TQFP |
Industrial |
| XC2C256-7TQ100C |
-7 |
100-VQFP |
Commercial |
| XC2C256-7FTG256C |
-7 |
256-FTBGA |
Commercial |
Conclusion
The XC2C256-7TQ144CMS represents an excellent choice for engineers requiring a reliable, low-power CPLD solution with robust I/O capabilities. Its combination of 256 macrocells, 118 user I/O pins, and advanced power-saving features like CoolCLOCK and DataGATE make it suitable for a wide range of applications from portable devices to industrial equipment. With multi-voltage I/O support and comprehensive design tool compatibility, this CoolRunner-II CPLD continues to be a dependable component for modern electronic designs.
