The XC2S50E-6TQ144I is a versatile field-programmable gate array from the Spartan-IIE family, engineered for demanding industrial and embedded applications. This programmable logic device combines moderate logic density with enhanced clock management, making it an ideal choice for cost-sensitive designs requiring reliable performance.
Key Features of XC2S50E-6TQ144I FPGA
Core Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Logic Cells |
1,728 cells |
| System Gates |
50,000 gates |
| Configurable Logic Blocks |
384 CLBs |
| Maximum Frequency |
357 MHz |
| Process Technology |
0.15 μm CMOS |
| Core Voltage |
1.8V |
| Package Type |
TQFP-144 (Thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| Operating Temperature |
Industrial (-40°C to +100°C) |
| Speed Grade |
-6 (High Performance) |
Memory Architecture
The XC2S50E-6TQ144I features a hierarchical memory structure designed for flexibility and performance:
| Memory Type |
Capacity |
Description |
| Block RAM |
32 Kbits |
Dual-port configuration for simultaneous read/write operations |
| Distributed RAM |
24,576 bits |
LUT-based memory for fast, local data access |
| Total RAM Resources |
56+ Kbits |
Suitable for buffering and embedded memory functions |
Technical Advantages of Spartan-IIE Architecture
Clock Management System
The device integrates four Delay-Locked Loops (DLLs) that provide:
- Precise clock deskewing capabilities
- Frequency synthesis and multiplication
- Phase-aligned clock distribution across the FPGA fabric
- Support for high-speed synchronous digital circuits
Flexible I/O Capabilities
The XC2S50E-6TQ144I offers exceptional I/O flexibility with:
- 144 pins in TQFP package
- Multiple I/O standards support including LVTTL, LVCMOS, HSTL, SSTL, and LVDS
- Bidirectional I/O configuration options
- Industrial-grade voltage tolerance (up to 3.6V I/O voltage)
XC2S50E-6TQ144I Applications and Use Cases
Industrial Control and Automation
This Xilinx FPGA excels in factory automation environments where:
- Custom state machines and control loops are required
- Robust timing and reliable I/O performance are essential
- System updates without hardware replacement are beneficial
- Moderate logic capacity meets industrial control requirements
Embedded System Design
Perfect for embedded applications including:
- Digital signal processing implementations
- Motor control systems
- Communication protocol interfaces
- Glue logic and finite state machines
Automotive Electronics
The industrial temperature range and reliable performance make it suitable for:
- Instrument cluster implementations
- Electronic control modules
- Automotive sensor interfaces
- Infotainment system logic
Communication Systems
Ideal for implementing:
- Protocol converters and bridges
- Data buffering and processing
- Custom communication interfaces
- Network controller logic
Programming and Configuration
SRAM-Based Technology
The XC2S50E-6TQ144I utilizes SRAM configuration technology, enabling:
- Unlimited in-system reprogrammability
- Fast configuration times
- Ideal for prototyping and iterative design
- Field-upgradeable logic without hardware replacement
- Easy system updates and bug fixes
Development Tools Support
Compatible with Xilinx development tools for efficient design implementation:
- ISE Design Suite support for legacy designs
- Comprehensive simulation and synthesis tools
- Timing analysis and optimization utilities
- Device-specific programming files
Physical and Reliability Specifications
Package Information
| Specification |
Detail |
| Package Type |
TQFP-144 (Thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
144 pins |
| Form Factor |
Gull Wing terminals |
| Package Shape |
Square |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) |
| Body Size |
Compact footprint for space-constrained designs |
Environmental and Operating Conditions
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Operating Temperature Range |
-40°C to +100°C (Industrial Grade) |
| Core Supply Voltage |
1.8V ±5% |
| I/O Supply Voltage |
1.2V to 3.6V (depending on I/O standard) |
| Temperature Grade Suffix |
“I” – Industrial temperature range |
| RoHS Compliance |
RoHS compliant for lead-free manufacturing |
Performance Characteristics
Speed Grade Analysis
The -6 speed grade designation indicates:
- High-performance timing characteristics
- 357 MHz maximum internal clock frequency
- Optimized for time-critical applications
- Balanced power consumption and performance
- Suitable for moderate to high-speed digital designs
Logic Density Benefits
With 50,000 system gates and 1,728 logic cells, the device provides:
- Sufficient capacity for moderately complex designs
- Cost-effective solution for mid-range applications
- Balance between logic resources and device cost
- Adequate for controllers, interfaces, and processing tasks
Comparison with Related Spartan-IIE Devices
Product Variants
| Part Number |
Package |
Temperature |
Key Difference |
| XC2S50E-6TQ144I |
TQFP-144 |
Industrial |
Standard industrial grade |
| XC2S50E-6TQ144C |
TQFP-144 |
Commercial |
Commercial temperature (0°C to +85°C) |
| XC2S50E-6FT256I |
FBGA-256 |
Industrial |
More I/O pins in BGA package |
| XC2S50E-7TQ144I |
TQFP-144 |
Industrial |
Higher speed grade (-7) |
Design Considerations for XC2S50E-6TQ144I
When to Choose This FPGA
Select the XC2S50E-6TQ144I when your project requires:
- Moderate logic density (up to 50K gates)
- Industrial temperature operation
- Cost-effective programmable logic solution
- Multiple I/O standard support
- Reliable clock management with DLLs
- In-system reprogrammability
Power Supply Design
Ensure proper power delivery with:
- Clean 1.8V core supply with adequate decoupling
- Separate I/O bank power supplies as needed
- Proper voltage sequencing during power-up
- Sufficient current capacity for logic and I/O switching
PCB Layout Guidelines
Optimize your board design by:
- Providing adequate thermal management
- Using proper decoupling capacitors near power pins
- Maintaining signal integrity for high-speed traces
- Following Xilinx PCB design guidelines
- Implementing proper grounding techniques
Lifecycle and Availability
Current Status
| Status |
Details |
| Lifecycle |
Obsolete (as of mid-2024) |
| Availability |
Available through authorized distributors and stock |
| Replacement Recommendation |
Consider newer Spartan-7 family for new designs |
| Support |
Continued support for existing designs and legacy systems |
Long-Term Support Considerations
While classified as obsolete, the XC2S50E-6TQ144I remains:
- Available from multiple distributors worldwide
- Supported for existing production requirements
- Suitable for legacy system maintenance
- An economical choice for proven designs
Quality and Compliance
Manufacturing Standards
The device meets rigorous quality standards including:
- Automotive-grade reliability testing
- Industrial temperature qualification
- ESD protection on all I/O pins
- Comprehensive functional and parametric testing
Documentation and Support
Access comprehensive resources including:
- Detailed technical datasheets
- Application notes and design guides
- Reference designs and examples
- Technical support from Xilinx/AMD
Summary: Why Choose XC2S50E-6TQ144I
The XC2S50E-6TQ144I delivers exceptional value for industrial applications requiring moderate logic density, reliable performance, and flexible I/O capabilities. Its proven Spartan-IIE architecture, combined with industrial temperature range and cost-effective pricing, makes it an excellent choice for embedded control systems, automotive electronics, and communication interfaces.
With 50,000 system gates, 357 MHz performance, and TQFP-144 packaging, this FPGA provides the perfect balance of functionality, reliability, and affordability for demanding industrial applications.
