Overview of XC2S300E-6PQG208I FPGA
The XC2S300E-6PQG208I from AMD Xilinx represents a powerful field-programmable gate array solution designed for demanding industrial and embedded system applications. This Spartan-IIE family FPGA delivers exceptional performance with 300,000 system gates and operates at frequencies up to 357MHz, making it an ideal choice for digital signal processing, industrial automation, and enterprise system implementations.
As part of the proven Spartan-IIE architecture, the XC2S300E-6PQG208I offers designers a cost-effective alternative to traditional ASICs while maintaining high performance and flexibility. For comprehensive information about Xilinx FPGA technology and applications, explore our detailed resources.
Key Technical Specifications
Core FPGA Parameters
| Specification |
Value |
| Product Family |
Spartan-IIE |
| System Gates |
300,000 gates |
| Logic Cells |
6,912 cells |
| Maximum Frequency |
357MHz |
| Process Technology |
0.15µm CMOS |
| Operating Voltage |
1.8V |
| Package Type |
208-Pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Temperature Grade |
Industrial (-40°C to +100°C) |
| RoHS Compliance |
Yes (Lead-free) |
Memory and Logic Resources
| Resource Type |
Specification |
| Block RAM |
Up to 288Kbits |
| Distributed RAM |
Up to 221,184 bits |
| Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) |
Hierarchical architecture |
| DLLs (Delay-Locked Loops) |
4 integrated DLLs |
| I/O Standards Supported |
19 selectable standards |
| User I/O Pins |
Multiple dedicated I/O configurations |
Advanced Features and Capabilities
Performance Characteristics
The XC2S300E-6PQG208I FPGA delivers system-level performance that exceeds 200MHz for most applications, with peak performance reaching 357MHz in optimized designs. The speed grade “-6” designation indicates industrial-grade timing specifications, ensuring reliable operation across demanding environmental conditions.
Programmable Architecture
Built on the proven Virtex-E streamlined architecture, this FPGA features:
- Configurable Logic Blocks: Matrix-based CLB arrangement for flexible digital circuit implementation
- Programmable Interconnects: Fast, predictable routing ensures timing closure across design iterations
- SelectRAM Memory Hierarchy: Combines 16-bit/LUT distributed RAM with configurable 4K-bit true dual-port block RAM
- In-System Reprogrammability: Unlimited configuration updates without hardware replacement
I/O Capabilities and Standards
The 208-pin PQFP package provides extensive connectivity options:
| I/O Feature |
Description |
| Pin Configuration |
Dedicated power, ground, configuration, and user I/O pins |
| Voltage Compatibility |
Multiple I/O voltage standards support |
| Interface Protocols |
Support for diverse digital communication protocols |
| Signal Integrity |
Optimized pin arrangement for minimal crosstalk |
Application Areas
Industrial Automation and Control
The XC2S300E-6PQG208I excels in industrial automation environments where reliability and performance are critical:
- Factory automation systems
- Process control applications
- Industrial machine vision
- Motion control systems
- Real-time monitoring and data acquisition
Enterprise and Data Center Applications
For enterprise-level implementations, this FPGA provides:
- Network protocol processing
- Data encryption and security
- Server acceleration
- Storage system controllers
- High-speed data routing
Digital Signal Processing
The FPGA’s architecture supports complex DSP operations:
- Audio and video processing
- Communications signal processing
- Image enhancement and filtering
- Real-time data compression
- Software-defined radio implementations
Embedded Systems Development
Ideal for embedded applications requiring:
- Custom peripheral interfaces
- Protocol conversion
- System-on-chip prototyping
- IoT edge computing
- Sensor data fusion
Design and Development Support
Programming and Configuration
The XC2S300E-6PQG208I supports multiple configuration methods:
- JTAG Programming: Standard IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan interface
- Master/Slave Serial Configuration: Flexible deployment options
- SelectMAP Configuration: High-speed parallel configuration
- Boundary-Scan Testing: Built-in test and debug capabilities
Development Tools
Compatible with industry-standard design tools:
| Tool Category |
Supported Options |
| Design Suite |
Xilinx ISE Design Suite, Vivado (for newer projects) |
| Synthesis |
XST (Xilinx Synthesis Technology) |
| Simulation |
ModelSim, ISim, and third-party simulators |
| Timing Analysis |
Static timing analysis tools |
| Floorplanning |
PlanAhead design planning |
Package and Pin Configuration
PQFP208 Package Specifications
| Package Detail |
Specification |
| Package Type |
Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP) |
| Total Pin Count |
208 pins |
| Package Dimensions |
28mm × 28mm body |
| Lead Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Package Height |
Low-profile design |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level |
MSL 3 |
Pin Categories
The 208-pin configuration includes:
- Power supply pins (VCC, VCCINT, VCCAUX)
- Ground pins (GND)
- Configuration pins (CCLK, DIN, DONE, PROGRAM)
- Dedicated I/O pins
- User-configurable I/O pins
- No-connect (NC) pins
Electrical Characteristics
Power Supply Requirements
| Power Parameter |
Typical |
Maximum |
| Core Voltage (VCCINT) |
1.8V |
1.8V ±5% |
| I/O Voltage (VCCAUX) |
2.5V/3.3V |
Varies by standard |
| Power Consumption (Static) |
Low |
Application-dependent |
| Power Consumption (Dynamic) |
Moderate |
Design-dependent |
Operating Conditions
The industrial temperature grade (-6) ensures operation from -40°C to +100°C ambient temperature, making this FPGA suitable for harsh industrial environments.
Advantages Over ASIC Solutions
Cost-Effective Development
The XC2S300E-6PQG208I eliminates traditional ASIC disadvantages:
- No Initial Tooling Costs: Avoid expensive mask sets
- Rapid Prototyping: Immediate design iteration and testing
- Reduced Time-to-Market: Skip lengthy fabrication cycles
- Lower Risk: Modify designs without hardware respins
- Volume Flexibility: Economic for low to medium production volumes
Design Flexibility
- Unlimited Reprogrammability: Update functionality in deployed systems
- Field Upgrades: Implement new features remotely
- Bug Fixes: Correct design issues without hardware changes
- Feature Enhancement: Add capabilities post-deployment
Ordering Information and Product Status
Part Number Breakdown
XC2S300E-6PQG208I decodes as:
- XC2S: Spartan-II family identifier
- 300E: 300K gates, Extended (IIE) version
- -6: Speed grade (industrial)
- PQG208: Package type (PQFP, 208 pins)
- I: Industrial temperature range
Product Lifecycle Status
While classified as not recommended for new designs by the manufacturer, the XC2S300E-6PQG208I remains available through authorized distributors for legacy system support, replacement parts, and cost-sensitive applications where newer FPGAs may be overspecified.
Comparison with Related Devices
Spartan-IIE Family Comparison
| Part Number |
Gates |
Logic Cells |
Speed Grade |
Package |
| XC2S150E |
150K |
3,456 |
-6/-7 |
Various |
| XC2S300E |
300K |
6,912 |
-6/-7 |
PQFP208/FTBGA256 |
| XC2S400E |
400K |
9,216 |
-6/-7 |
FTBGA456 |
| XC2S600E |
600K |
13,824 |
-6/-7 |
FTBGA456 |
Quality and Reliability
Manufacturing Standards
The XC2S300E-6PQG208I is manufactured under strict quality control:
- ISO-certified production facilities
- Comprehensive electrical testing
- Burn-in testing for high-reliability applications
- RoHS compliant (lead-free)
- REACH compliant materials
Reliability Specifications
| Reliability Metric |
Performance |
| MTBF |
High reliability rating |
| ESD Protection |
HBM Class 1C (>2000V) |
| Latch-up Immunity |
>100mA |
| Operating Lifetime |
Exceeds industry standards |
Storage and Handling
ESD Precautions
The XC2S300E-6PQG208I requires proper electrostatic discharge protection:
- Store in anti-static packaging
- Use ESD-safe workstations for handling
- Implement grounding protocols during assembly
- Follow IPC-A-610 guidelines for PCB assembly
Storage Conditions
Maintain components in controlled environments:
- Temperature: -40°C to +125°C (storage)
- Humidity: <70% RH
- Avoid direct sunlight exposure
- Seal in moisture barrier bags when not in use
Technical Support Resources
Documentation Available
- Complete datasheet with AC/DC characteristics
- User guide for Spartan-IIE architecture
- Application notes for specific use cases
- PCB layout guidelines and reference designs
- Schematic symbols and PCB footprints
- IBIS models for signal integrity analysis
Development Resources
Access comprehensive design support through:
- Online technical forums and communities
- Reference designs and IP cores
- Video tutorials and training modules
- Webinars on FPGA design best practices
- Technical support from authorized distributors
Why Choose XC2S300E-6PQG208I?
Proven Technology
The Spartan-IIE family has demonstrated reliability across millions of deployed units worldwide. This mature technology offers:
- Stable supply chain
- Extensive documentation
- Large user community
- Proven design methodologies
- Predictable performance
Cost-Performance Balance
The XC2S300E-6PQG208I delivers optimal value:
- Competitive pricing for 300K gate density
- Lower power consumption than comparable devices
- Reduced PCB complexity with integrated features
- Minimized external component count
Long-Term Availability
While not recommended for new designs, the device remains available through authorized distributors, ensuring:
- Support for legacy systems
- Replacement part availability
- Continued technical documentation access
- Compatible development tool support
Conclusion
The XC2S300E-6PQG208I Spartan-IIE FPGA represents a mature, cost-effective solution for industrial automation, embedded systems, and digital signal processing applications. With 300,000 system gates, 6,912 logic cells, and operation up to 357MHz, this device offers the perfect balance of performance, features, and value.
Whether you’re maintaining existing designs, developing cost-sensitive applications, or require proven technology with extensive documentation support, the XC2S300E-6PQG208I delivers reliable FPGA performance in an industrial-grade package.
For detailed technical specifications, design resources, and purchasing information, consult authorized AMD Xilinx distributors or visit manufacturer documentation resources.
