Overview of XC3042-100PP132C Field Programmable Gate Array
The XC3042-100PP132C is a professional-grade Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) manufactured by Xilinx (now part of AMD), belonging to the industry-proven XC3000 series family. This 132-pin PPGA (Plastic Pin Grid Array) device delivers exceptional performance for custom VLSI design applications, offering designers a flexible, reprogrammable solution for complex digital logic implementations.
As a member of the XC3000 family, the XC3042-100PP132C represents mature FPGA technology with a proven track record in industrial, commercial, and embedded system applications. With 3,000 usable gates and 144 configurable logic cells operating at 100MHz, this FPGA provides an ideal balance between logic capacity, speed, and cost-effectiveness.
Key Technical Specifications
Core Performance Parameters
| Specification |
Value |
| Part Number |
XC3042-100PP132C |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD) |
| Product Family |
XC3000 Series FPGAs |
| Logic Cells |
144 CLBs (Configurable Logic Blocks) |
| Usable Gates |
3,000 gates |
| Maximum Frequency |
100 MHz |
| Supply Voltage |
5V |
| Package Type |
132-Pin PPGA (Plastic Pin Grid Array) |
| Speed Grade |
-100 (10ns) |
| Operating Temperature |
Commercial: 0°C to +70°C |
Package and Physical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Description |
| Package Style |
PPGA (Plastic Pin Grid Array) |
| Pin Count |
132 pins |
| Mounting Type |
Through-hole |
| Package Dimensions |
Standard 132-pin PGA footprint |
| I/O Pins Available |
Up to 118 user I/O pins |
| Weight |
Lightweight plastic construction |
Architecture and Design Features
Configurable Logic Block (CLB) Architecture
The XC3042-100PP132C features a sophisticated Logic Cell Array (LCA) architecture composed of three primary configurable elements:
- 144 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs): Each CLB contains combinatorial logic and flip-flops for implementing complex sequential and combinatorial functions
- I/O Blocks (IOBs): Perimeter programmable I/O blocks providing flexible interface capabilities
- Interconnect Resources: Comprehensive routing architecture enabling efficient signal distribution throughout the device
Advanced FPGA Capabilities
| Feature |
Benefit |
| CMOS Static Memory Technology |
Low power consumption with high reliability |
| In-System Reprogrammability |
Unlimited design iterations without hardware changes |
| Fast Configuration |
Approximately 290 clock cycles (~195-580 μs) |
| Internal 3-State Buses |
Efficient resource sharing and complex data routing |
| On-Chip Oscillator |
Built-in crystal oscillator amplifier for clock generation |
| Flexible I/O Standards |
TTL or CMOS input threshold compatibility |
Application Areas and Use Cases
Industrial and Commercial Applications
The XC3042-100PP132C excels in diverse application scenarios:
- Digital Signal Processing (DSP) – Implementing custom filters, modulators, and signal conditioning circuits
- Control Systems – Motor controllers, PID controllers, and industrial automation logic
- Communication Interfaces – Protocol converters, UART, SPI, I2C implementations
- Test Equipment – Pattern generators, logic analyzers, and measurement instruments
- Prototyping – Rapid hardware prototyping for ASIC validation
- Legacy System Maintenance – Replacement for obsolete TTL, MSI, and PLD components
- Embedded Computing – Glue logic, peripheral interfaces, and system integration
Design Advantages
The Xilinx FPGA architecture provides significant advantages for engineers:
- Replaces Multiple ICs: Integrates TTL, MSI, and other discrete logic components into a single programmable device
- No NRE Costs: Eliminates non-recurring engineering expenses associated with custom ASIC development
- Rapid Time-to-Market: Immediate prototyping and production without mask fabrication delays
- Risk Reduction: Field-upgradeable design allows post-deployment modifications
Performance Characteristics
Timing and Speed Specifications
| Performance Metric |
Specification |
| Logic Delay |
9-10 ns typical |
| Toggle Rate |
Up to 100 MHz |
| System Clock Speed |
>80 MHz achievable |
| Configuration Time |
195-580 microseconds |
| Pin-to-Pin Delay |
Dependent on routing (typically 15-25ns) |
Power Consumption
| Power Parameter |
Value |
| Static Power |
0.07 mW per MHz (typical) |
| Dynamic Power |
0.50 mW per MHz (typical) |
| Standby Current |
<10 mA |
| Active Current |
Varies with design complexity (50-200mA typical) |
Development and Programming
Design Tools and Software
The XC3042-100PP132C is supported by comprehensive development tools:
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite: Legacy but fully functional design environment
- XACT Development System: Original tool suite for schematic capture and place-and-route
- Third-Party Tools: Compatible with various HDL synthesis tools (VHDL, Verilog)
- Simulation Support: Logic and timing simulation capabilities for design verification
Programming Methods
| Configuration Mode |
Description |
| Master Serial Mode |
Device autonomously configures from external memory |
| Slave Serial Mode |
External controller provides configuration data |
| Boundary Scan (JTAG) |
IEEE 1149.1 compatible programming and testing |
| Peripheral Mode |
Configuration through microprocessor interface |
Quality and Reliability
Manufacturing Standards
- CMOS Process Technology: Sub-micron manufacturing for optimal performance and reliability
- Quality Assurance: Manufactured to industry-leading standards with comprehensive testing
- Long-Term Availability: While classified as mature technology, components remain available through authorized distributors
- RoHS Compliance: Environmental compliance for modern manufacturing requirements
Operational Reliability
| Reliability Parameter |
Specification |
| MTBF |
>1,000,000 hours |
| Configuration Retention |
>20 years at 25°C |
| Program/Erase Cycles |
Unlimited reprogramming capability |
| ESD Protection |
Human Body Model compliant |
Pin Configuration and Package Information
132-Pin PPGA Package Details
The PP132C package designation indicates:
- PP: Plastic Pin Grid Array
- 132: Total pin count
- C: Commercial temperature grade
Pin Categories
| Pin Type |
Quantity |
Function |
| User I/O |
Up to 118 pins |
Configurable input/output |
| Power (VCC) |
Multiple pins |
+5V supply connections |
| Ground (GND) |
Multiple pins |
Ground reference |
| Configuration |
4-6 pins |
DONE, PROG, CLK, DIN, DOUT |
Comparison with Related Products
XC3042 Package Variants
| Part Number |
Package |
Pin Count |
Key Difference |
| XC3042-100PP132C |
PPGA |
132 |
This product – Plastic PGA |
| XC3042-100PG132C |
CPGA |
132 |
Ceramic PGA variant |
| XC3042-100PQ100C |
PQFP |
100 |
Quad Flat Pack, fewer I/O |
| XC3042-100PC84C |
PLCC |
84 |
Smaller package, reduced I/O |
| XC3042-100TQ100C |
TQFP |
100 |
Thin Quad Flat Pack |
Ordering Information and Availability
Part Number Breakdown
XC3042-100PP132C
- XC3042: Device family and gate count (3000 gates, 42 = 4200 gate equivalent)
- -100: Speed grade (-100 = 10ns, commercial grade)
- PP: Package type (Plastic Pin Grid Array)
- 132: Pin count
- C: Commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C)
Temperature Grade Options
| Grade Code |
Temperature Range |
Application |
| C (Commercial) |
0°C to +70°C |
Standard commercial applications |
| I (Industrial) |
-40°C to +85°C |
Industrial environments |
| M (Military) |
-55°C to +125°C |
Military and aerospace |
Design Considerations and Best Practices
PCB Design Guidelines
- Power Distribution: Use proper power plane design with adequate decoupling capacitors (0.1µF ceramic near each power pin)
- Signal Integrity: Maintain controlled impedance for high-speed signals
- Thermal Management: Ensure adequate airflow; device typically requires no heatsink for normal operation
- Pin Assignment: Utilize the device’s flexible I/O for optimal routing
- Configuration Circuit: Include proper pull-up/pull-down resistors on configuration pins
Common Design Tips
- Resource Utilization: Target 70-80% CLB utilization for optimal performance
- Clock Distribution: Use dedicated clock nets for global timing
- I/O Standards: Match voltage levels carefully when interfacing with other devices
- Configuration Strategy: Choose appropriate configuration mode based on system requirements
- Backup Design: Maintain configuration bitstream in non-volatile memory for power-on initialization
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the XC3042-100PP132C still in production? The XC3000 series is considered mature/legacy technology. While Xilinx no longer actively manufactures new units, substantial inventory exists through authorized distributors and specialized suppliers.
Q: What is the difference between PP132C and PG132C packages? PP132C uses a plastic pin grid array construction, while PG132C uses ceramic. The plastic version is more cost-effective for commercial applications; ceramic offers superior thermal performance and hermetic sealing for demanding environments.
Q: Can I use modern development tools with this FPGA? Yes, the ISE Design Suite (versions 14.7 and earlier) fully supports the XC3000 series. While Vivado does not support legacy devices, ISE remains available for download from Xilinx.
Q: What are suitable replacement or upgrade options? For new designs, consider Spartan series FPGAs (Spartan-3, Spartan-6, or Spartan-7) which offer significantly more resources, lower power consumption, and modern I/O standards while maintaining compatibility with standard FPGA design flows.
Technical Support and Documentation
Available Resources
- Datasheet: Complete electrical and timing specifications
- User Guide: Comprehensive architecture and design information
- Application Notes: Design examples and best practices
- Development Tools: ISE Design Suite documentation
- Community Support: Online forums and technical communities
Summary: Why Choose XC3042-100PP132C
The XC3042-100PP132C represents a proven FPGA solution offering:
✓ Reliable Performance: Industry-tested architecture with millions of deployed units
✓ Cost-Effective Design: Mature technology at competitive pricing
✓ Flexible Development: Unlimited reprogrammability for design iterations
✓ Wide Compatibility: Standard 5V logic interface compatible with existing systems
✓ Comprehensive Support: Extensive documentation and legacy tool availability
Whether you’re maintaining legacy equipment, prototyping new designs, or requiring a cost-optimized programmable logic solution, the XC3042-100PP132C delivers proven FPGA capabilities in a robust 132-pin package.
