The XC2C256-7VQG100C is a 256-macrocell Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) from the renowned CoolRunner-II family, originally developed by Xilinx (now AMD). This advanced CPLD delivers exceptional performance with ultra-low power consumption, making it ideal for embedded systems, portable electronics, and industrial control applications.

Key Features of the XC2C256-7VQG100C CPLD

The XC2C256-7VQG100C stands out in the programmable logic market for several reasons. This 1.8V CPLD combines high-speed operation with remarkable energy efficiency, featuring a typical standby current of just 16µA. The device utilizes advanced 0.18-micron CMOS technology, delivering pin-to-pin delays as fast as 5.7 nanoseconds.

Ultra-Low Power Consumption

One of the most significant advantages of the XC2C256-7VQG100C is its exceptional power efficiency. With Fast Zero Power (FZP) technology and just 28.8µW ultra-low power operation, this CPLD extends battery life in portable applications while maintaining high performance. The innovative DataGATE technology allows designers to selectively disable unused inputs, reducing signal switching and further decreasing power consumption.

Advanced Architecture Specifications

The XC2C256-7VQG100C features sixteen function blocks interconnected by a low-power Advanced Interconnect Matrix (AIM). This architecture feeds 40 true and complement inputs to each function block. Each function block contains a 40 by 56 P-term PLA and 16 macrocells with configuration bits for combinational or registered operation modes.

Technical Specifications Table

Parameter	Specification
Manufacturer	AMD (formerly Xilinx)
Product Family	CoolRunner-II
Macrocells	256
System Gates	6,000
User I/O Pins	80
Total Pins	100
Package Type	VQFP (Very Thin Quad Flat Pack)
Pin Pitch	0.5mm
Core Voltage	1.8V (1.7V – 1.9V range)
Operating Frequency	Up to 152MHz
Propagation Delay	5.7ns (pin-to-pin)
Operating Temperature	0°C to +70°C (Commercial)
Process Technology	0.18µm CMOS

I/O Standards and Voltage Compatibility

The XC2C256-7VQG100C supports multiple I/O standards for versatile system integration. Two I/O banks enable easy interfacing with devices operating at different voltage levels.

I/O Standard	Voltage Level	Description
LVTTL	3.3V	Low-Voltage TTL for general-purpose applications
LVCMOS	1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V	Low-Voltage CMOS for modern digital systems
HSTL	1.5V, 1.8V	High-Speed Transceiver Logic for memory interfaces
SSTL	1.8V, 2.5V	Stub Series Terminated Logic for DDR applications

Performance Characteristics

Parameter	Value
Global Clock Setup Time	3.3ns
Standby Current	16µA typical
Power Consumption	28.8µW (ultra-low power mode)
Speed Grade	-7
MSL Rating	MSL 3 – 168 hours

CoolRunner-II CPLD Applications

The XC2C256-7VQG100C is engineered for diverse applications across multiple industries:

Consumer Electronics

Battery-powered devices benefit tremendously from the ultra-low standby current and instant-on capability. Handheld gadgets, wearable technology, and portable instruments achieve extended battery life without sacrificing performance.

Industrial Control Systems

High-speed logic processing combined with reliable operation makes this CPLD suitable for automation equipment, motor control, sensor interfaces, and real-time monitoring systems.

Telecommunications Equipment

Communication systems leverage the XC2C256-7VQG100C for protocol bridging, signal processing, and interface logic. The device’s low power consumption reduces thermal challenges in densely packed equipment.

Embedded Systems Design

System designers use this CPLD for glue logic, address decoding, state machine implementation, and peripheral interfacing. The non-volatile configuration ensures instant-on operation without external configuration memory.

Why Choose the XC2C256-7VQG100C for Your Design?

Instant-On Capability

Unlike SRAM-based FPGAs, the XC2C256-7VQG100C retains its configuration in non-volatile memory. This enables instant operation at power-up without waiting for configuration loading, which is critical for safety-critical applications and systems requiring immediate response.

Design Tool Support

The XC2C256-7VQG100C is supported by Xilinx ISE WebPACK, a free development environment for CPLD design. Engineers can create, simulate, and implement designs using industry-standard VHDL or Verilog HDL languages.

In-System Programming

The device supports JTAG-based in-system programming, allowing firmware updates without removing the chip from the circuit board. This simplifies manufacturing, field upgrades, and design iterations.

Package Information

Dimension	Specification
Package Style	100-Pin VQFP
Body Size	14mm x 14mm
Lead Pitch	0.5mm
Mounting Type	Surface Mount
Lead-Free	RoHS Compliant options available

Ordering Information

The XC2C256-7VQG100C part number follows AMD/Xilinx naming conventions:

• XC2C256: CoolRunner-II family, 256 macrocells
• -7: Speed grade (-7 indicates 7.5ns performance tier)
• VQ: Very Thin Quad Flat Pack
• 100: 100-pin package
• C: Commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C)

Related CoolRunner-II CPLD Devices

For different design requirements, consider these alternative devices from the same family:

Part Number	Macrocells	I/O Pins	Package
XC2C128-7TQ144C	128	100	144-TQFP
XC2C256-7TQ144C	256	118	144-TQFP
XC2C384-7TQ144C	384	118	144-TQFP
XC2C512-7PQ208C	512	172	208-PQFP

Conclusion

The XC2C256-7VQG100C represents an excellent choice for engineers seeking a balance between logic density, performance, and power efficiency. Its combination of 256 macrocells, 5.7ns propagation delay, and ultra-low power consumption makes it suitable for applications ranging from portable consumer electronics to industrial control systems.

For more programmable logic solutions including this device, explore our comprehensive selection of Xilinx FPGA products and development resources.

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The XC2C256-7VQG100C CPLD delivers the performance, flexibility, and power efficiency that modern embedded designs demand. Contact us today for pricing, availability, and technical support.