Overview of XC3030A-7PC84C Field Programmable Gate Array
The XC3030A-7PC84C is a high-performance Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) manufactured by AMD (formerly Xilinx). This versatile programmable logic device delivers exceptional processing capabilities for embedded systems, industrial automation, and digital signal processing applications. As part of the XC3000A series, this FPGA combines reliability with proven technology, making it an ideal choice for both legacy system maintenance and new design implementations.
XC3030A-7PC84C Key Specifications
Core Technical Parameters
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC3030A-7PC84C |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (Xilinx) |
| Package Type |
84-PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) |
| Speed Grade |
-7 (7ns) |
| Logic Cells |
3000 gates |
| Operating Temperature |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| Mounting Type |
Through Hole |
| Voltage Supply |
5V |
Pin Configuration Details
| Feature |
Value |
| Total Pins |
84 pins |
| User I/O Pins |
64 configurable I/O |
| Package Footprint |
PLCC-84 |
| Pin Pitch |
1.27mm (50 mil) |
XC3030A-7PC84C Architecture and Performance
Internal Architecture Features
The XC3030A-7PC84C features a sophisticated architecture optimized for flexible digital design:
- Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs): Provides 3000 equivalent gates arranged in a matrix configuration
- Programmable Interconnect: Full routing flexibility between CLBs enabling complex logic implementations
- I/O Blocks: 64 bidirectional I/O pins with programmable drive strength and slew rate control
- Speed Performance: 7ns propagation delay for high-speed applications
Memory and Storage Capabilities
| Memory Type |
Capacity |
| Configuration Memory |
SRAM-based |
| User Memory |
Distributed RAM available |
| Programming Method |
In-system programmable via boundary scan |
Applications of XC3030A-7PC84C FPGA
Industrial Control Systems
The XC3030A-7PC84C excels in industrial automation applications where reliable programmable logic is essential. Common uses include:
- Motor control circuits
- PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) interfaces
- Sensor data acquisition systems
- Process control automation
Communication Systems
This <a href=”https://pcbsync.com/xilinx-fpga/”>Xilinx FPGA</a> provides excellent performance for communication protocols:
- Serial communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C)
- Protocol converters
- Data buffering and formatting
- Signal conditioning circuits
Consumer Electronics
Despite being a mature product, the XC3030A-7PC84C remains relevant for:
- Legacy equipment upgrades
- Replacement parts for existing designs
- Educational and prototyping projects
- Custom interface development
XC3030A-7PC84C Programming and Configuration
Configuration Options
| Configuration Method |
Description |
| Master Serial Mode |
FPGA controls external serial PROM |
| Slave Serial Mode |
External controller programs the device |
| Boundary Scan (JTAG) |
IEEE 1149.1 compliant for testing and programming |
| Master Parallel Mode |
Parallel configuration from byte-wide PROM |
Development Tools Compatibility
The XC3030A-7PC84C is supported by industry-standard FPGA development tools:
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite (legacy versions)
- Third-party schematic capture tools
- VHDL and Verilog HDL synthesis tools
- Simulation and timing analysis software
XC3030A-7PC84C Electrical Characteristics
Power Requirements
| Parameter |
Typical |
Maximum |
Units |
| Supply Voltage (Vcc) |
5.0 |
5.25 |
V |
| Operating Current |
30 |
50 |
mA |
| Standby Current |
5 |
10 |
mA |
| Power Dissipation |
150 |
250 |
mW |
Timing Specifications
| Timing Parameter |
Value |
Units |
| Clock Frequency |
Up to 50 |
MHz |
| Input Setup Time |
3 |
ns |
| Output Delay |
7 |
ns |
| Clock-to-Output |
8 |
ns |
Package Dimensions and Mechanical Data
PLCC-84 Package Information
| Dimension |
Measurement |
| Package Length |
29.21 mm |
| Package Width |
29.21 mm |
| Package Height |
4.57 mm |
| Weight |
Approximately 2.5g |
| Lead Spacing |
1.27 mm (50 mil) |
Pin Assignment Features
The XC3030A-7PC84C offers versatile pin configuration:
- All I/O pins are user-programmable
- Multiple I/O standards supported
- Programmable pull-up/pull-down resistors
- Adjustable output drive strength
- Schmitt trigger inputs available
Quality and Reliability Standards
Manufacturing Quality
The XC3030A-7PC84C meets stringent quality standards:
- RoHS compliant versions available
- Moisture sensitivity level (MSL): Level 3
- ESD protection on all pins
- Latch-up immunity built-in
Reliability Specifications
| Reliability Metric |
Value |
| MTBF |
>1,000,000 hours |
| Operating Life |
20+ years |
| Thermal Cycles |
1000+ cycles |
| ESD Protection |
Human Body Model (HBM): 2000V |
Design Considerations for XC3030A-7PC84C
PCB Layout Guidelines
When designing with the XC3030A-7PC84C, consider these best practices:
- Place decoupling capacitors (0.1µF ceramic) close to each Vcc pin
- Maintain solid ground plane for noise immunity
- Use controlled impedance for high-speed signals
- Allow adequate thermal dissipation pathways
- Follow PLCC socket mounting guidelines for socketed designs
Power Distribution Network
| Component |
Recommendation |
| Bulk Capacitor |
10µF tantalum per device |
| Decoupling Capacitors |
0.1µF ceramic at each Vcc pin |
| Power Plane |
Dedicated Vcc and GND planes |
| Trace Width |
Minimum 10 mil for power traces |
Ordering Information and Availability
Part Number Breakdown
Understanding the XC3030A-7PC84C nomenclature:
- XC3030A: Device family and gate count (3000 gates, A revision)
- -7: Speed grade (7ns propagation delay)
- PC84: Package type (Plastic PLCC, 84 pins)
- C: Commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C)
Compatible Sockets and Accessories
| Accessory Type |
Description |
| PLCC Socket |
84-pin through-hole socket |
| Programming Cable |
JTAG or parallel programming interface |
| Development Board |
Compatible FPGA prototyping platforms |
| Heat Sink |
Optional for high-ambient temperature applications |
XC3030A-7PC84C vs. Modern FPGA Alternatives
Technology Comparison
| Feature |
XC3030A-7PC84C |
Modern FPGAs |
| Process Node |
0.8µm CMOS |
7-16nm FinFET |
| Logic Capacity |
3,000 gates |
10K – 1M+ logic cells |
| Configuration |
SRAM-based |
SRAM or Flash-based |
| Voltage |
5V |
1.0V – 3.3V |
| Best Use |
Legacy support, education |
High-performance applications |
Technical Support and Documentation
Available Resources
Designers working with the XC3030A-7PC84C can access:
- Complete datasheets with electrical specifications
- Application notes for common design patterns
- Reference designs and example code
- Online technical forums and community support
- Legacy tool documentation archives
Conclusion: Why Choose XC3030A-7PC84C
The XC3030A-7PC84C FPGA remains a reliable choice for applications requiring proven technology, legacy system compatibility, or educational purposes. Its 3000-gate capacity, 84-pin PLCC package, and 7ns speed grade provide adequate performance for many digital logic applications. While modern FPGAs offer greater density and speed, the XC3030A-7PC84C delivers excellent value for maintenance, replacement, and learning applications.
For engineers maintaining existing systems or developing new designs with moderate complexity requirements, the XC3030A-7PC84C offers a cost-effective, well-documented solution backed by decades of field-proven reliability.
