Overview of XC2S100E-6FT256I FPGA
The XC2S100E-6FT256I is a powerful Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from AMD Xilinx’s renowned Spartan-IIE family, designed to deliver exceptional performance for industrial-grade applications. This advanced programmable logic device combines 100,000 system gates with low-power 1.8V operation, making it an ideal choice for embedded systems, digital signal processing, and custom logic implementations.
As part of the second-generation ASIC replacement technology, the XC2S100E-6FT256I offers engineers and designers a flexible, cost-effective alternative to traditional mask-programmed ASICs, with the added benefit of unlimited in-system reprogrammability.
Technical Specifications
Core Architecture Features
| Specification |
Value |
| Family |
Spartan-IIE 1.8V FPGA |
| System Gates |
100,000 gates |
| Logic Cells |
2,700 cells |
| Maximum Frequency |
357 MHz |
| Process Technology |
0.15 micron CMOS |
| Core Voltage |
1.8V |
| Package Type |
256-Pin FTBGA (Fine-Pitch Ball Grid Array) |
| Temperature Grade |
Industrial (-40°C to +100°C) |
| RoHS Compliance |
Non-RoHS Compliant |
Memory Configuration
| Memory Type |
Capacity |
| Block RAM |
Up to 288K bits |
| Distributed RAM |
Up to 221,184 bits |
| Dual-Port Block RAM |
Configurable 4K-bit true dual-port |
| LUT Distributed RAM |
16 bits per LUT |
Package and Pin Information
- Package Code: FT256 (Fine-Pitch BGA)
- Total Pins: 256
- Package Dimensions: Compact ball grid array format
- Mounting Type: Surface Mount Technology (SMT)
- Lead Pitch: Fine-pitch for high-density PCB designs
Key Features and Benefits
Advanced FPGA Capabilities
The XC2S100E-6FT256I incorporates cutting-edge features derived from Xilinx’s Virtex-E architecture, providing designers with professional-grade capabilities:
1. SelectRAM Hierarchical Memory System
- Flexible memory architecture supporting distributed and block RAM configurations
- Dual-port memory access for concurrent read/write operations
- Optimized for data buffering and temporary storage applications
2. Delay-Locked Loop (DLL) Technology
- Four integrated DLLs for precise clock management
- Reduces clock skew and improves timing performance
- Enables higher system frequencies and improved signal integrity
3. High-Speed I/O Standards
- Supports 19 selectable I/O standards
- Compatible with LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, and differential signaling
- Flexible voltage level support for multi-standard system integration
4. Performance Optimization
- System performance exceeding 200 MHz in typical applications
- Fast, predictable interconnect architecture
- Consistent timing across design iterations
Application Areas
Industrial Control Systems
The XC2S100E-6FT256I excels in industrial automation environments where reliability and performance are critical. Common applications include:
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
- Motor control systems
- Factory automation equipment
- Process monitoring and control
Communications Equipment
With its high-speed capabilities and flexible I/O standards, this Xilinx FPGA is ideal for:
- Digital signal processing
- Protocol conversion and bridging
- Data acquisition systems
- Network interface controllers
Embedded Systems
The industrial temperature range and low power consumption make it suitable for:
- Automotive electronics
- Medical device controllers
- Aerospace instrumentation
- Military and defense systems
Consumer Electronics
Cost-effective FPGA solution for:
- Digital video processing
- Audio/video interface conversion
- Custom peripheral controllers
- IoT edge computing devices
Advantages Over Traditional ASICs
Flexibility and Reprogrammability
Unlike mask-programmed ASICs, the XC2S100E-6FT256I offers:
- In-System Reprogrammability: Update functionality without hardware replacement
- Rapid Prototyping: Faster time-to-market compared to ASIC development
- Field Upgrades: Deploy firmware updates and feature enhancements remotely
- Design Iteration: Modify designs without expensive mask sets
Cost-Effectiveness
- No NRE Costs: Eliminate non-recurring engineering expenses associated with ASIC development
- Low Initial Investment: Start production without multi-million dollar tooling costs
- Flexible Production: Adjust to market demands without minimum order quantities
- Risk Mitigation: Avoid the financial risk of ASIC development cycles
Development Tools and Support
Xilinx ISE Design Suite
The XC2S100E-6FT256I is fully supported by Xilinx development tools:
- Comprehensive synthesis and implementation environment
- Advanced timing analysis and constraint management
- Integrated simulation and verification tools
- ChipScope Pro for in-system debugging
Programming Options
- JTAG boundary-scan programming
- Serial configuration through SPI flash
- SelectMAP parallel configuration
- Partial reconfiguration capability
Package and Ordering Information
Part Number Breakdown
XC2S100E-6FT256I
- XC2S = Spartan-IIE family
- 100E = 100K gate density
- 6 = Speed grade (-6)
- FT256 = Fine-Pitch BGA, 256 pins
- I = Industrial temperature range
Related Part Numbers
For different temperature grades and package options, consider:
- XC2S100E-6FTG256C (Commercial grade, 0°C to +85°C)
- XC2S100E-6PQ208I (208-pin PQFP package, Industrial)
- XC2S100E-6TQ144I (144-pin TQFP package, Industrial)
Quality and Reliability
Manufacturing Standards
- Produced using advanced 0.15-micron CMOS process technology
- Rigorous quality control and testing procedures
- Full compliance with AMD Xilinx quality standards
- ESD protection on all I/O pins
Product Lifecycle
While the XC2S100E-6FT256I is a mature product (not recommended for new designs by AMD Xilinx), it remains:
- Available for legacy system support
- Suitable for cost-sensitive applications
- Supported by extensive documentation and community resources
- Compatible with established design flows
Technical Comparison Table
XC2S100E vs. Similar FPGAs
| Feature |
XC2S100E-6FT256I |
XC3S100E-4TQ144C |
XC2S100-5FG256I |
| Family |
Spartan-IIE |
Spartan-3E |
Spartan-II |
| Gates |
100K |
100K |
100K |
| Cells |
2,700 |
2,160 |
2,700 |
| Voltage |
1.8V |
1.2V |
2.5V |
| Process |
0.15μm |
90nm |
0.18μm |
| Max Freq |
357 MHz |
572 MHz |
263 MHz |
Getting Started
Design Considerations
When implementing designs with the XC2S100E-6FT256I, engineers should consider:
- Power Supply Design: Ensure stable 1.8V core voltage with adequate current capacity
- Thermal Management: Industrial temperature range requires proper heat dissipation
- Configuration Strategy: Select appropriate configuration method for your application
- Signal Integrity: Fine-pitch BGA requires careful PCB layout and impedance control
Resource Utilization
Optimize your FPGA design by:
- Balancing logic cell usage with available resources
- Leveraging block RAM for data-intensive applications
- Utilizing DLLs for clock domain management
- Implementing appropriate I/O standards for your interfaces
Supply Chain and Availability
Authorized Distributors
The XC2S100E-6FT256I is available through multiple authorized channels including:
- Digi-Key Electronics
- Mouser Electronics
- Arrow Electronics
- Avnet
- Independent distributors worldwide
Packaging and Storage
- Anti-static packaging with ESD protection
- Moisture sensitivity level per JEDEC standards
- Proper storage conditions ensure long-term reliability
- Tray or tape-and-reel options available
Conclusion
The XC2S100E-6FT256I represents a proven, reliable FPGA solution for industrial applications requiring moderate logic density, high performance, and cost-effectiveness. Its industrial temperature rating, comprehensive feature set, and established design ecosystem make it an excellent choice for legacy system support and cost-sensitive new projects.
Whether you’re designing industrial control systems, communications equipment, or embedded applications, the XC2S100E-6FT256I offers the perfect balance of performance, flexibility, and value. With unlimited reprogrammability and extensive development tool support, this Spartan-IIE FPGA continues to serve engineers worldwide in creating innovative electronic solutions.
For technical specifications, pricing information, and availability, consult authorized AMD Xilinx distributors or visit the official AMD Xilinx documentation center.
