The XC2S200-6FGG867C is a powerful Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the legendary Xilinx Spartan-II family, delivering exceptional programmable logic capabilities for demanding digital applications. This cost-effective FPGA solution combines high-performance processing with flexible configuration options, making it the ideal choice for engineers developing complex electronic systems in telecommunications, industrial automation, consumer electronics, and embedded applications.
As part of the second-generation Spartan series, the XC2S200-6FGG867C represents proven ASIC replacement technology that eliminates the high initial costs and lengthy development cycles associated with traditional Application-Specific Integrated Circuits. With 200,000 system gates and 5,292 logic cells, this FPGA provides the processing power and versatility needed for today’s sophisticated digital designs.
Key Technical Specifications of XC2S200-6FGG867C
Core Architecture Features
| Specification |
Value |
Description |
| System Gates |
200,000 |
Total gate count for complex logic implementation |
| Logic Cells |
5,292 |
Configurable logic blocks for flexible design |
| CLB Array |
28 x 42 (1,176 CLBs) |
Organized configurable logic block structure |
| Maximum Operating Frequency |
263 MHz |
High-speed clock performance |
| Speed Grade |
-6 |
Premium speed grade for demanding applications |
| Process Technology |
0.18µm |
Advanced semiconductor manufacturing |
| Core Voltage |
2.5V |
Low-power core operation |
| I/O Voltage |
1.5V, 2.5V, 3.3V |
Multi-voltage I/O compatibility |
Memory and Storage Resources
| Memory Type |
Capacity |
Application |
| Distributed SelectRAM |
42,368 bits |
Fast, distributed memory integrated in CLBs |
| Block RAM |
56 Kbits (14 blocks × 4Kbits) |
Dedicated high-speed memory blocks |
| Total RAM |
98,368 bits |
Combined memory resources |
| Configuration Memory |
Single-event upset resistant |
Reliable configuration storage |
Package and I/O Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Package Type |
Fine-pitch Ball Grid Array (FBGA) |
| Total Balls |
867 |
| Maximum User I/O |
284 pins |
| Differential I/O Pairs |
142 pairs |
| Global Clock Networks |
4 dedicated low-skew networks |
| Temperature Range |
0°C to +70°C (Commercial) |
Advanced Features and Capabilities
Digital Clock Management (DCM)
The XC2S200-6FGG867C incorporates four Delay-Locked Loop (DLL) circuits strategically positioned at each corner of the die, providing sophisticated clock management capabilities:
- Clock multiplication and division for flexible frequency generation
- Phase shifting for precise timing control
- Clock de-skew for eliminating distribution delays
- Clock mirroring for multi-device board-level synchronization
- Duty cycle correction for 50% duty cycle output
Versatile I/O Standards Support
This FPGA supports 16 high-performance interface standards, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of external devices and systems:
Single-Ended I/O Standards
- LVTTL (Low-Voltage TTL)
- LVCMOS (1.5V, 2.5V, 3.3V)
- PCI 33MHz and 66MHz compliant
- GTL and GTL+ for high-speed backplane
- HSTL (High-Speed Transceiver Logic)
- SSTL (Stub Series Terminated Logic)
Differential I/O Standards
- LVDS (Low-Voltage Differential Signaling)
- LVPECL (Low-Voltage Positive ECL)
- Differential HSTL and SSTL variants
Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs)
Each CLB in the XC2S200-6FGG867C contains:
- Four logic slices with two 4-input Look-Up Tables (LUTs) each
- Two storage elements per slice (configurable as flip-flops or latches)
- Fast carry logic for high-speed arithmetic operations
- Dedicated multiplexer resources for efficient data routing
- Cascade chain support for implementing wide-input logic functions
Performance Benchmarks and Speed Grades
Speed Grade Comparison
| Speed Grade |
Maximum Frequency |
Propagation Delay |
Applications |
| -4 |
200 MHz |
Standard performance |
General-purpose designs |
| -5 |
230 MHz |
Enhanced performance |
Medium-speed applications |
| -6 |
263 MHz |
Premium performance |
High-speed digital processing |
The -6 speed grade of the XC2S200-6FGG867C delivers maximum performance for time-critical applications including:
- High-speed data acquisition systems
- Real-time signal processing
- Fast communication protocols
- Network packet processing
- Video and image processing pipelines
Application Areas for XC2S200-6FGG867C
Telecommunications and Networking
The XC2S200-6FGG867C excels in communication infrastructure applications:
- Baseband processing for wireless communication systems
- Protocol implementation (Ethernet, USB, PCIe)
- Network routers and switches with packet inspection
- Digital modulation/demodulation circuits
- Software-defined radio (SDR) components
Industrial Automation and Control
Robust performance for industrial environments:
- Motor control systems with PWM generation
- PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) implementation
- Industrial protocol bridges (PROFIBUS, Modbus, CANbus)
- Sensor data acquisition and processing
- Real-time control loops for manufacturing equipment
Consumer Electronics
Cost-effective solutions for consumer products:
- Set-top boxes with video processing
- Digital television receivers and decoders
- Home networking equipment
- Gaming peripherals and controllers
- Audio/video processing systems
Medical and Scientific Instrumentation
Reliable operation for critical applications:
- Medical imaging systems (ultrasound, X-ray processing)
- Patient monitoring equipment with multi-channel data acquisition
- Laboratory instruments with precision timing
- Diagnostic equipment with signal analysis
- Biometric identification systems
Development Tools and Software Support
Xilinx ISE Design Suite
The XC2S200-6FGG867C is fully supported by Xilinx’s comprehensive development environment:
Design Entry Options
- HDL synthesis (VHDL, Verilog)
- Schematic capture for visual design entry
- IP core integration from CoreGen library
- State machine editors for control logic
Implementation Flow
- Automatic mapping of logic to CLB resources
- Place and route optimization for timing closure
- Static timing analysis with detailed timing reports
- Power analysis for thermal management
- Bitstream generation with security features
Configuration Methods
| Configuration Mode |
Description |
Use Case |
| Master Serial |
FPGA controls configuration |
Standalone operation with external PROM |
| Slave Serial |
External device controls process |
Microcontroller-based systems |
| Master Parallel |
Fast parallel configuration |
High-speed boot requirements |
| Slave Parallel |
External parallel control |
Processor-based reconfiguration |
| JTAG Boundary Scan |
IEEE 1149.1 compliant |
Development, debugging, in-system programming |
Power Consumption and Thermal Management
Power Characteristics
| Operating Condition |
Typical Power |
Maximum Power |
| Core Static Power |
75 mW @ 25°C |
150 mW @ 70°C |
| Dynamic Power (50% toggle) |
450 mW @ 100 MHz |
1.2 W @ 263 MHz |
| I/O Power (50% loaded) |
200 mW |
500 mW |
| Total System Power |
725 mW typical |
1.85 W maximum |
Thermal Design Considerations
The XC2S200-6FGG867C’s FBGA package provides excellent thermal dissipation:
- Junction-to-ambient thermal resistance: θJA = 28°C/W (with adequate airflow)
- Junction-to-case thermal resistance: θJC = 5°C/W
- Maximum junction temperature: 125°C (commercial grade)
Comparison with Alternative FPGA Solutions
XC2S200 vs. Other Spartan-II Family Members
| Device |
System Gates |
Logic Cells |
Block RAM |
Max I/O |
Best For |
| XC2S50 |
50,000 |
1,728 |
32 Kbits |
176 |
Entry-level designs |
| XC2S100 |
100,000 |
2,700 |
40 Kbits |
176 |
Medium complexity |
| XC2S150 |
150,000 |
3,888 |
48 Kbits |
260 |
Advanced applications |
| XC2S200 |
200,000 |
5,292 |
56 Kbits |
284 |
Maximum performance |
Advantages Over Traditional ASICs
| Aspect |
XC2S200-6FGG867C FPGA |
Traditional ASIC |
| Initial Cost |
Low (no NRE charges) |
High ($100K+ NRE) |
| Time to Market |
Days to weeks |
6-12 months |
| Design Flexibility |
Unlimited reprogrammability |
Fixed after fabrication |
| Risk |
Minimal |
High (design errors costly) |
| Field Updates |
Easy reconfiguration |
Impossible |
| Prototyping |
Immediate |
Requires expensive masks |
Design Best Practices for XC2S200-6FGG867C
Timing Closure Strategies
- Clock domain management: Use dedicated global clock networks for primary clocks
- Register placement: Place registers at I/O boundaries to meet setup/hold requirements
- Critical path optimization: Identify and optimize timing-critical logic paths
- Pipelining: Insert pipeline registers to achieve higher clock frequencies
- Constraint-driven design: Apply comprehensive timing constraints from project start
Resource Utilization Guidelines
Optimal CLB usage:
- Target 70-85% CLB utilization for best results
- Reserve resources for future enhancements
- Balance logic distribution across the die
- Utilize block RAM for data storage (more efficient than distributed RAM)
I/O planning considerations:
- Group related signals by bank to minimize voltage level translators
- Plan differential pairs for high-speed interfaces
- Reserve global clock pins for primary clock inputs
- Consider signal integrity for high-frequency I/O
Power Optimization Techniques
- Clock gating: Disable clocks to unused logic sections
- Voltage scaling: Use lowest acceptable I/O voltage standards
- Logic optimization: Minimize unnecessary toggle activity
- Resource sharing: Multiplex functions to reduce gate count
- Sleep modes: Implement low-power standby states when possible
Quality and Reliability
Manufacturing Standards
The XC2S200-6FGG867C is manufactured to stringent quality standards:
- ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturing facilities
- Automotive-grade variants available for harsh environments
- RoHS compliant lead-free packaging options
- REACH compliant for European markets
- Conflict-free minerals sourcing policy
Reliability Metrics
| Parameter |
Specification |
| MTBF |
>1,000,000 hours @ 55°C |
| Operating Lifetime |
>20 years typical use |
| Configuration Cycles |
Unlimited reprogramming |
| Data Retention |
>20 years (configuration memory) |
| ESD Protection |
Class 1C (>1000V HBM) |
Ordering Information and Part Number Decoding
Part Number Breakdown: XC2S200-6FGG867C
- XC: Xilinx Commercial product
- 2S: Spartan-II family
- 200: 200K system gates device
- -6: Speed grade (highest performance)
- FGG: Fine-pitch BGA package with lead-free (Green) option
- 867: Pin/ball count
- C: Commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C)
Available Temperature Grades
| Grade |
Temperature Range |
Applications |
| C (Commercial) |
0°C to +70°C |
Standard indoor equipment |
| I (Industrial) |
-40°C to +100°C |
Harsh environment operation |
| M (Military) |
-55°C to +125°C |
Aerospace and defense systems |
Getting Started with XC2S200-6FGG867C Development
Essential Development Resources
To begin your FPGA design journey with the XC2S200-6FGG867C, you’ll need:
- Development software: Xilinx ISE Design Suite (free WebPACK edition available)
- Programming hardware: Platform Cable USB or JTAG programmer
- Reference documentation: Spartan-II User Guide, datasheet, and application notes
- Design examples: Starter projects and IP cores from Xilinx
- Simulation tools: ModelSim or ISim for behavioral verification
Recommended Learning Path
Beginner level:
- Study Spartan-II architecture fundamentals
- Complete basic HDL tutorials (VHDL or Verilog)
- Implement simple combinational and sequential circuits
- Practice constraints file creation and timing analysis
Intermediate level:
- Design state machines and control logic
- Integrate block RAM and memory controllers
- Implement communication protocols
- Optimize designs for speed and resource usage
Advanced level:
- Multi-clock domain design techniques
- High-speed I/O implementation
- System-on-chip (SoC) integration
- Advanced timing closure and floor planning
Support and Community Resources
Technical Support Channels
- Official Xilinx documentation portal: Comprehensive datasheets, user guides, and application notes
- Xilinx community forums: Peer-to-peer support from experienced FPGA designers
- Local FAE support: Regional Field Application Engineers for technical assistance
- Training programs: Online courses, webinars, and in-person workshops
Third-Party Resources
- Open-source IP cores: GitHub repositories with reusable FPGA designs
- FPGA development boards: Evaluation platforms with XC2S200 devices
- Tutorial websites: Step-by-step project guides and video tutorials
- Design service providers: Companies offering FPGA consulting and development
Why Choose XC2S200-6FGG867C for Your Next Project?
Compelling Value Proposition
The XC2S200-6FGG867C stands out as an exceptional choice for digital design projects due to:
Proven reliability: Mature technology with extensive field deployment history spanning over two decades
Cost-effectiveness: Optimal price-to-performance ratio for 200K gate applications
Comprehensive toolchain: Industry-standard development tools with extensive documentation
Design flexibility: Unlimited reprogrammability enables iterative development and field upgrades
Risk mitigation: Avoid ASIC development costs and time-to-market delays
Legacy support: Long-term availability ensures multi-year production stability
Broad compatibility: Extensive I/O standard support simplifies system integration
Frequently Asked Questions About XC2S200-6FGG867C
Q: What is the difference between FG and FGG package designations? A: The “FGG” designation indicates a lead-free (Green) package variant that complies with RoHS environmental standards, while “FG” represents standard packaging.
Q: Can the XC2S200-6FGG867C be reconfigured in the field? A: Yes, the FPGA supports unlimited reprogramming cycles through various configuration methods including JTAG, serial, and parallel modes.
Q: What development tools are compatible with this FPGA? A: The primary tool is Xilinx ISE Design Suite. Third-party synthesis tools like Synplify Pro also support Spartan-II devices.
Q: How does the -6 speed grade compare to -5 or -4? A: The -6 speed grade offers the fastest performance with maximum operating frequencies up to 263 MHz, while -5 and -4 grades operate at lower speeds with reduced cost.
Q: What is the typical power consumption? A: Typical system power consumption ranges from 700 mW to 1.85 W depending on clock frequency, toggle rates, and I/O loading.
Q: Is the XC2S200 suitable for automotive applications? A: While commercial-grade devices are not AEC-Q100 qualified, Xilinx offers automotive-grade XA Spartan variants for qualified automotive use.
Conclusion: XC2S200-6FGG867C – Your Gateway to Advanced FPGA Design
The XC2S200-6FGG867C represents a pinnacle of Spartan-II FPGA technology, delivering robust performance, comprehensive features, and exceptional value for digital design applications. Whether you’re developing telecommunications infrastructure, industrial control systems, consumer electronics, or medical instrumentation, this versatile FPGA provides the processing power, flexibility, and reliability your project demands.
With 200,000 system gates, 5,292 logic cells, premium -6 speed grade performance, and extensive I/O capabilities, the XC2S200-6FGG867C eliminates the barriers traditionally associated with custom silicon development. Its proven architecture, backed by mature development tools and extensive documentation, ensures your design success from concept through production.
For comprehensive Xilinx FPGA solutions, technical resources, and expert support, explore the complete ecosystem of development tools, IP cores, and community knowledge that makes working with Spartan-II FPGAs accessible to engineers of all experience levels. Start your next innovative project with the confidence that comes from choosing a trusted, time-tested FPGA platform.
Ready to Begin Your FPGA Journey?
Take the next step in bringing your digital design vision to life with the XC2S200-6FGG867C. Access comprehensive datasheets, order development kits, and connect with technical support resources to transform your ideas into working hardware solutions. The future of programmable logic is here – and it’s more accessible than ever.