Overview of XC2S200E-6FT256Q FPGA
The XC2S200E-6FT256Q is a powerful field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from Xilinx’s renowned Spartan-IIE family, designed to deliver exceptional performance at a cost-effective price point. This versatile FPGA offers 200,000 system gates, making it an ideal solution for complex digital designs, embedded systems, and industrial automation applications. With its 256-pin FTBGA package and speed grade of -6, this device combines compact footprint with robust functionality.
Key Technical Specifications
Core Performance Features
| Specification |
Value |
| Logic Cells |
5,292 cells |
| System Gates |
200,000 gates |
| Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) |
1,176 CLBs |
| Maximum Clock Frequency |
357 MHz |
| Operating Voltage |
1.8V |
| Process Technology |
0.15 micron |
| Package Type |
256-Pin FTBGA (Fine-Pitch BGA) |
| Speed Grade |
-6 (Commercial) |
| Temperature Range |
0°C to +85°C |
Memory Architecture
| Memory Type |
Capacity |
| Block RAM |
Up to 56 Kbits |
| Distributed RAM |
Up to 75,264 bits |
| SelectRAM™ Hierarchical Memory |
Yes |
Input/Output Capabilities
| I/O Feature |
Specification |
| Maximum User I/O Pins |
289 |
| Available I/O Standards |
16 selectable standards |
| Delay-Locked Loops (DLLs) |
4 DLLs |
| Global Clock Inputs |
4 dedicated inputs |
Advanced FPGA Architecture and Technology
Spartan-IIE Family Innovation
The XC2S200E-6FT256Q belongs to Xilinx’s second-generation ASIC replacement technology, featuring streamlined capabilities based on the proven Virtex-E FPGA architecture. This Xilinx FPGA delivers unlimited in-system reprogrammability, allowing designers to update and optimize their designs without hardware replacement.
Performance and Design Flexibility
The device supports system performance up to 357 MHz with fast, predictable interconnect that ensures successive design iterations consistently meet timing requirements. The 0.15-micron CMOS technology provides an optimal balance between performance, power consumption, and cost-effectiveness.
Memory and Resource Configuration
Hierarchical SelectRAM Memory
The XC2S200E-6FT256Q features Xilinx’s innovative SelectRAM hierarchical memory architecture, offering designers flexible memory options. Block RAM provides dedicated high-speed memory blocks, while distributed RAM utilizes CLB resources for additional memory requirements.
Configurable Logic Resources
With 1,176 configurable logic blocks and 5,292 logic cells, this FPGA provides substantial resources for implementing complex digital logic, signal processing algorithms, and custom computing architectures.
Package Information: 256-Pin FTBGA
Physical Characteristics
| Package Detail |
Specification |
| Package Code |
FTBGA (Fine-Pitch Ball Grid Array) |
| Pin Count |
256 pins |
| Body Material |
Plastic/Epoxy |
| Dimensions |
17mm x 17mm |
| Ball Pitch |
Fine pitch (submillimeter) |
| Package Configuration |
16 x 16 grid array |
| JEDEC Code |
S-PBGA-B256 |
Moisture Sensitivity
The XC2S200E-6FT256Q has a Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) of 3, requiring proper handling and storage to prevent moisture-related issues during the reflow soldering process.
Application Areas and Use Cases
Industrial Automation and Control
The XC2S200E-6FT256Q excels in building automation systems, process control, and industrial networking applications where reliable, reprogrammable logic is essential.
Communications Equipment
With support for multiple I/O standards and high-speed operation, this FPGA is ideal for communications infrastructure, protocol conversion, and data processing applications.
Consumer Electronics
The cost-effective nature of the Spartan-IIE family makes it perfect for consumer products including personal electronics, PC peripherals, and multimedia devices.
Broadband Access Systems
Fixed-line broadband equipment benefits from the FPGA’s ability to implement custom signal processing and protocol handling capabilities.
Configuration and Programming
Multiple Configuration Modes
The XC2S200E-6FT256Q supports various configuration methods:
- Master Serial Mode (from external PROM)
- Slave Serial Mode
- Slave Parallel Mode
- Boundary Scan (JTAG) Mode
In-System Programmability
Unlimited reprogrammability allows field upgrades and design modifications without replacing hardware, dramatically reducing development time and deployment costs compared to traditional ASIC solutions.
Configuration Memory Solutions
Xilinx Platform Flash in-system programmable configuration PROMs provide low-cost, reliable configuration storage with the ability to update firmware in deployed systems.
Design Tools and Development Support
Software Compatibility
The XC2S200E-6FT256Q is supported by Xilinx ISE Design Suite, providing comprehensive tools for:
- HDL synthesis and implementation
- Timing analysis and optimization
- Power estimation
- Configuration generation
- Device programming
Design Entry Options
Designers can use multiple entry methods including VHDL, Verilog HDL, schematic capture, and system-level design tools, allowing teams to use their preferred design methodologies.
Advantages Over Traditional ASICs
Cost-Effective Solution
The XC2S200E-6FT256Q eliminates the high initial costs associated with mask-programmed ASICs, including NRE (Non-Recurring Engineering) charges and minimum order quantities.
Rapid Development Cycles
FPGA-based designs can be prototyped, tested, and deployed in weeks rather than the months required for ASIC development, accelerating time-to-market significantly.
Design Flexibility
Unlike fixed ASICs, the reprogrammable nature of this FPGA allows continuous improvement and feature additions even after product deployment.
Risk Mitigation
Field programmability eliminates the inherent risks of ASIC development, including design errors that require expensive mask revisions.
Power Management and Thermal Considerations
Low-Voltage Operation
Operating at 1.8V core voltage, the XC2S200E-6FT256Q offers reduced power consumption compared to older FPGA generations while maintaining high performance.
Power Optimization
Multiple power-saving features allow designers to optimize power consumption based on application requirements, including clock gating and selective block activation.
Compatibility and Migration Path
Pin Compatibility
The FT256 package provides a standardized footprint that may allow migration between different Spartan-IIE family members, subject to specific design requirements and pin assignments.
Family Scalability
The Spartan-IIE family offers devices ranging from 50,000 to 600,000 system gates, providing scalability options as design requirements evolve.
Quality and Reliability Standards
RoHS Compliance
The XC2S200E-6FT256Q is available in RoHS-compliant versions, meeting environmental regulations for lead-free manufacturing.
Qualification Testing
Xilinx FPGAs undergo rigorous qualification testing including temperature cycling, humidity testing, and long-term reliability assessment.
Ordering Information and Availability
Part Number Breakdown
XC2S200E-6FT256Q decodes as:
- XC2S = Spartan-II family prefix
- 200E = 200K gates, Spartan-IIE variant
- 6 = Speed grade (commercial temperature)
- FT256 = 256-pin Fine-Pitch BGA package
- Q = Quality/qualification level
Package Variants
The XC2S200E is available in multiple package options including PQ208 (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) and FG456 (Fine-Pitch BGA) for different board space and I/O requirements.
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation
Comprehensive technical documentation includes detailed datasheets, application notes, user guides, and reference designs available through Xilinx support channels.
Development Boards
Various evaluation and development boards support Spartan-IIE FPGAs, enabling rapid prototyping and design validation.
Comparison with Similar FPGAs
Within Spartan-IIE Family
| Device |
System Gates |
Logic Cells |
Max I/O |
| XC2S100E |
100,000 |
2,400 |
202 |
| XC2S200E |
200,000 |
5,292 |
289 |
| XC2S300E |
300,000 |
6,912 |
329 |
| XC2S400E |
400,000 |
10,800 |
410 |
The XC2S200E-6FT256Q offers an excellent balance of resources and I/O capability for mid-range applications.
Implementation Best Practices
Timing Closure
The fast, predictable interconnect architecture ensures that timing constraints can be met consistently across design iterations, reducing the time required for timing closure.
Resource Utilization
Efficient use of CLBs, block RAM, and distributed RAM allows designers to maximize functionality within the available device resources.
I/O Planning
With 289 available user I/O pins in the FT256 package, careful I/O planning ensures optimal signal integrity and compatibility with external components.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the XC2S200E-6FT256Q suitable for commercial applications?
The -6 speed grade and 0°C to +85°C temperature range make this device ideal for commercial and industrial applications where extended temperature operation is not required, providing cost savings compared to military-grade parts.
Can I upgrade my design after deployment?
Yes, the unlimited reprogrammability of the XC2S200E-6FT256Q allows field upgrades through in-system programming, enabling bug fixes, feature additions, and performance optimizations without hardware changes.
What development tools are required?
Xilinx ISE Design Suite provides all necessary tools for design entry, synthesis, implementation, and device programming. Third-party tools are also supported through standard interfaces.
Conclusion
The XC2S200E-6FT256Q represents an excellent choice for designers requiring a high-performance, cost-effective FPGA solution. With 200,000 system gates, 357 MHz operation, and comprehensive I/O capabilities in a compact 256-pin FTBGA package, this device delivers the flexibility and performance needed for modern digital designs. Whether developing industrial control systems, communications equipment, or consumer electronics, the XC2S200E-6FT256Q provides the resources, reliability, and reprogrammability essential for successful product deployment.
For designers seeking a proven FPGA platform with strong vendor support, extensive development tools, and a clear migration path within the Spartan family, the XC2S200E-6FT256Q stands as a compelling solution that balances capability with cost-effectiveness.
