Overview of XC2S150E-6PQ208I FPGA
The XC2S150E-6PQ208I is a powerful field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from AMD Xilinx’s Spartan-IIE family, designed to deliver exceptional performance and flexibility for embedded systems and industrial applications. This Xilinx FPGA combines high-density logic resources with cost-effective 0.15-micron technology, making it an ideal solution for designers seeking programmable logic alternatives to traditional ASICs.
Key Features and Specifications
Core Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC2S150E-6PQ208I |
| Manufacturer |
AMD Xilinx (formerly Xilinx Inc.) |
| FPGA Family |
Spartan-IIE 1.8V |
| System Gates |
150,000 gates |
| Logic Cells |
3,888 cells |
| Maximum Frequency |
357 MHz |
| Operating Voltage |
1.8V core voltage |
| Package Type |
208-Pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Temperature Range |
Industrial (-40°C to +100°C) |
| Process Technology |
0.15μm CMOS |
Memory Architecture
| Memory Type |
Capacity |
| Block RAM |
Up to 288 Kbits configurable dual-port |
| Distributed RAM |
Up to 221,184 bits (16 bits per LUT) |
| SelectRAM |
Hierarchical memory structure |
Input/Output Capabilities
| I/O Feature |
Details |
| User I/O Pins |
Up to 172 pins |
| I/O Standards |
19 selectable standards |
| DLL (Delay-Locked Loops) |
4 DLLs for clock management |
| Hot Swap Support |
Yes, supported |
Why Choose XC2S150E-6PQ208I?
Superior Alternative to ASICs
The XC2S150E-6PQ208I FPGA offers significant advantages over mask-programmed ASICs:
- Zero Initial Tooling Costs – Eliminate expensive NRE (Non-Recurring Engineering) fees
- Rapid Time-to-Market – No lengthy fabrication cycles
- Field Upgradability – Unlimited in-system reprogrammability
- Design Flexibility – Make changes without hardware replacement
- Risk Mitigation – Avoid the inherent risks of ASIC commitments
Advanced Architecture Benefits
The Spartan-IIE architecture provides streamlined features based on the proven Virtex-E FPGA platform:
- Fast Predictable Interconnect – Ensures timing closure across design iterations
- Efficient Resource Utilization – Optimized logic cell structure
- Flexible Memory Options – Dual-port block RAM and distributed RAM
- Clock Management – Four DLLs for precise timing control
Target Applications
Industrial Control Systems
The XC2S150E-6PQ208I excels in industrial automation environments:
- Process control systems
- Motor drive controllers
- PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) modules
- Industrial networking equipment
- Machine vision systems
Communication Infrastructure
Ideal for telecommunications and networking applications:
- Broadband access equipment
- Protocol conversion systems
- Network switches and routers
- Communication interface cards
- Signal processing modules
Enterprise and Data Center
Suitable for commercial computing applications:
- Server interface cards
- Storage controllers
- Data acquisition systems
- Enterprise projectors
- Video processing equipment
Automotive Electronics
Supports automotive-grade applications:
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
- In-vehicle infotainment
- Electronic control units (ECUs)
- Sensor interfaces
- Diagnostic systems
Design and Development Support
Programming Tools
The XC2S150E-6PQ208I is supported by comprehensive development tools:
- ISE Design Suite – Legacy tool for Spartan-IIE devices
- Vivado Design Suite – Modern synthesis and implementation platform
- Programming Options – JTAG, Master/Slave Serial, SelectMAP modes
Development Resources
Engineers benefit from extensive design resources:
- Complete datasheet (DS077)
- Reference designs and application notes
- PCB footprint and symbol libraries
- Online technical support communities
- Design examples and tutorials
Package and Pin Configuration
208-Pin PQFP Package Details
| Package Attribute |
Value |
| Package Type |
Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) |
| Pin Count |
208 pins |
| Body Size |
28mm × 28mm |
| Lead Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) |
Pin Assignment Features
- Flexible I/O pin placement
- Dedicated configuration pins
- Power and ground pin distribution
- User-programmable I/O banks
Compliance and Quality Standards
Environmental Compliance
| Standard |
Status |
| RoHS |
Compliant (Lead-free) |
| REACH |
Registered |
| Conflict Minerals |
Compliant |
Quality Certifications
- Manufactured in ISO-certified facilities
- Automotive-grade temperature screening available
- Full traceability and lot control
- Comprehensive reliability testing
Performance Characteristics
Speed Grade: -6
The “-6” speed grade indicates:
- Optimized for high-performance applications
- Maximum operating frequency of 357 MHz
- Balanced performance across all resources
- Industrial temperature range support
Power Characteristics
Efficient power management features:
- 1.8V core voltage operation
- Low static power consumption
- Dynamic power scaling capabilities
- Multiple power-saving modes
Ordering Information and Availability
Part Number Breakdown
XC2S150E-6PQ208I
- XC2S150E – Spartan-IIE, 150K gates
- -6 – Speed grade
- PQ208 – 208-pin PQFP package
- I – Industrial temperature range
Current Market Status
Important Note: The XC2S150E-6PQ208I is classified as obsolete/discontinued by AMD Xilinx. However, it remains available through:
- Authorized distributors’ remaining stock
- Specialized obsolete component suppliers
- Excess inventory channels
- Secondary market sources
Procurement Considerations
When sourcing XC2S150E-6PQ208I components:
- Verify authenticity from trusted suppliers
- Check date codes for recent manufacturing
- Request certificate of conformance
- Consider long-term availability planning
- Evaluate migration paths to current devices
Alternative and Compatible Devices
Direct Replacements
For new designs, consider these modern alternatives:
- Spartan-6 Family – Pin-compatible upgrades
- Spartan-7 Family – Latest generation with improved performance
- Artix-7 Family – Enhanced features and lower power
Migration Path
Designers using XC2S150E-6PQ208I should plan for:
- Design verification with newer FPGAs
- Tool chain updates to Vivado
- Performance benchmarking
- Long-term component availability strategy
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation Access
Complete technical documentation includes:
- Product datasheet (DS077)
- User guide and application notes
- PCB design guidelines
- Programming and configuration guides
- Reliability reports
Community and Support
Access technical assistance through:
- AMD Xilinx support portal
- Online design forums
- Authorized distributor FAE support
- Third-party FPGA design services
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between XC2S150E and XC2S150?
The XC2S150E operates at 1.8V with 0.15μm technology, while the XC2S150 uses 2.5V with 0.18μm technology. The “E” version offers lower power consumption and higher performance.
Can I use Vivado Design Suite for XC2S150E-6PQ208I?
The XC2S150E-6PQ208I requires ISE Design Suite, as Spartan-IIE devices are not supported in Vivado. ISE 14.7 is the last version supporting this family.
What temperature ranges are available?
The “-I” suffix indicates industrial temperature range (-40°C to +100°C). Commercial (C) and extended (E) grades may also be available through specialized suppliers.
How many user I/Os does the 208-pin package support?
The XC2S150E-6PQ208I supports up to 172 user I/O pins in the 208-pin PQFP package, depending on configuration and power requirements.
Is this device suitable for new designs?
While technically capable, the XC2S150E-6PQ208I is obsolete and not recommended for new designs. Consider migrating to Spartan-7 or Artix-7 families for better long-term support.
Conclusion
The XC2S150E-6PQ208I represents a proven FPGA solution for industrial and embedded applications requiring high performance, flexibility, and reliability. While classified as obsolete, this device continues to serve legacy systems and specialized applications where its combination of 150K gates, 357 MHz performance, and 1.8V operation remains valuable.
For designers working with existing XC2S150E-based systems, comprehensive support resources remain available through authorized channels. New projects should evaluate current Xilinx FPGA families that offer enhanced performance, lower power consumption, and guaranteed long-term availability.
Whether maintaining legacy systems or evaluating FPGA solutions, understanding the capabilities and limitations of the XC2S150E-6PQ208I ensures informed decision-making for your embedded design requirements.
