Product Overview: XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C FPGA
The XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C is a high-performance Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from AMD Xilinx’s Spartan-3A DSP family, engineered specifically for demanding digital signal processing applications. This advanced programmable logic device delivers exceptional DSP capabilities at a competitive price point, making it ideal for cost-sensitive applications requiring robust processing power.
As part of the proven Spartan-3A DSP series, this FPGA combines 1.8 million system gates with enhanced DSP processing blocks, offering engineers a flexible solution for implementing complex algorithms in consumer electronics, industrial automation, and communications systems.
Technical Specifications Table
| Specification |
Details |
| Part Number |
XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C |
| Manufacturer |
AMD Xilinx |
| Product Family |
Spartan-3A DSP |
| System Gates |
1.8 Million |
| Logic Cells |
37,440 cells |
| LABs/CLBs |
4,160 configurable logic blocks |
| Total RAM |
189 kB |
| I/O Pins |
309 user I/O pins |
| Package Type |
484-CSBGA (Chip Scale BGA) |
| Pin Count |
484 pins |
| Operating Voltage |
1.2V core |
| Speed Grade |
-5 (high performance) |
| Operating Temp Range |
0°C to 85°C (Commercial) |
| Maximum Frequency |
Up to 280 MHz |
| Process Technology |
90nm CMOS |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
| RoHS Compliance |
RoHS3 Compliant, Pb-free |
Key Features of XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C
High-Performance DSP Architecture
The XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C features AMD Xilinx’s XtremeDSP DSP48A slices, providing hardware-accelerated multiply-accumulate (MAC) operations essential for digital signal processing tasks. These dedicated DSP blocks enable efficient implementation of complex mathematical operations without consuming general logic resources.
Enhanced Memory Configuration
With 189 kB of embedded RAM, this Xilinx FPGA provides sufficient memory resources for buffering data, implementing lookup tables, and storing intermediate processing results. The block RAM architecture includes output registers for improved timing performance.
Flexible I/O Capabilities
- 309 user-programmable I/O pins supporting multiple voltage standards
- Compatible with 26 single-ended and differential signaling standards
- Support for LVDS, LVCMOS, SSTL, and other industry-standard interfaces
- Source-synchronous interfacing for high-speed data transfer
Compact CSBGA Packaging
The 484-pin CSBGA package with 0.8mm pitch offers:
- Space-efficient board layout
- Excellent thermal performance
- High signal integrity for high-speed applications
- Surface-mount technology compatibility
XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C Performance Specifications
| Performance Metric |
Value |
| Clock Frequency |
280 MHz maximum |
| DSP Performance |
High-throughput MAC operations |
| Logic Capacity |
37,440 logic cells |
| Power Consumption |
Low power optimized design |
| Configuration Time |
Fast configuration via SPI/BPI |
Target Applications for Spartan-3A DSP FPGA
Industrial & Automation Systems
The XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C excels in industrial control applications requiring real-time processing, motion control algorithms, and high-speed data acquisition. Its robust architecture handles demanding factory automation tasks with reliability.
Digital Signal Processing
Perfect for implementing:
- Digital filtering algorithms
- FFT/IFFT operations
- Image and video processing
- Audio codec implementations
- Software-defined radio (SDR)
Consumer Electronics
Ideal for cost-sensitive consumer applications including:
- Broadband access equipment
- Home networking devices
- Display and projection systems
- Digital television equipment
- Set-top boxes
Communications Infrastructure
Well-suited for:
- Wireless base stations
- Network switches and routers
- Protocol conversion
- Data encryption/decryption
- High-speed serial interfaces
Medical Instrumentation
Supports medical device applications requiring:
- Real-time signal processing
- Data acquisition and analysis
- Patient monitoring systems
- Diagnostic imaging equipment
Development Resources & Ecosystem
Design Software Support
| Tool |
Purpose |
| Vivado Design Suite |
Primary synthesis and implementation platform |
| ISE Design Tools |
Legacy support for existing projects |
| System Generator |
MATLAB/Simulink integration for DSP design |
| XPower Analyzer |
Power estimation and optimization |
Available IP Cores
The Spartan-3A DSP family offers extensive IP core libraries including:
- Communication protocols (Ethernet, USB, CAN, SPI, I²C)
- Memory controllers (DDR2, SDRAM)
- Video interfaces (VGA, DVI)
- Embedded processors (MicroBlaze)
Ordering Information & Package Details
The XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C designation breaks down as follows:
- XC3SD1800A: Device family and capacity (1.8M gates, Spartan-3A DSP)
- -5: Speed grade (high-performance variant)
- CSG484: Package type (484-pin CSBGA)
- C: Commercial temperature range (0°C to 85°C)
Package Characteristics
| Package Parameter |
Specification |
| Body Size |
23mm × 23mm |
| Ball Pitch |
0.8mm |
| Package Height |
Low-profile design |
| Moisture Sensitivity |
MSL 3 |
| Recommended PCB |
Minimum 6-layer recommended |
Comparison: XC3SD1800A vs. Alternative FPGAs
| Feature |
XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C |
XC3SD3400A |
Spartan-6 |
| System Gates |
1.8M |
3.4M |
3.8M |
| Logic Cells |
37,440 |
53,712 |
43,661 |
| DSP Slices |
DSP48A |
DSP48A |
DSP48A1 |
| Process Node |
90nm |
90nm |
45nm |
| Best For |
Cost-sensitive DSP |
High-capacity DSP |
Next-gen performance |
Benefits of Choosing XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C
Cost-Effective DSP Performance
The Spartan-3A DSP family delivers exceptional DSP price-to-performance ratio, offering capabilities traditionally found in more expensive devices at a fraction of the cost.
Proven 90nm Technology
Built on mature 90nm process technology, ensuring high manufacturing yields, reliability, and widespread availability from authorized distributors.
Design Flexibility
FPGA programmability enables:
- Field upgrades without hardware changes
- Rapid prototyping and iteration
- Single hardware platform for multiple product variants
- Protection against component obsolescence
Low Power Consumption
Optimized power management features make it suitable for:
- Battery-powered portable devices
- Thermally-constrained environments
- Energy-efficient system designs
Getting Started with XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C
Step 1: Development Board Selection
Consider evaluation platforms such as:
- Spartan-3A DSP Starter Kit
- Custom development boards
- Third-party evaluation modules
Step 2: Design Environment Setup
Install AMD Xilinx Vivado or ISE Design Suite and familiarize yourself with:
- HDL coding (VHDL/Verilog)
- Constraint file creation
- Timing analysis procedures
- Programming and debugging tools
Step 3: Reference Design Utilization
Leverage available reference designs to accelerate development:
- DSP algorithm implementations
- Communication protocol examples
- Video processing demonstrations
- System-level integration templates
Quality & Compliance Standards
The XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C meets rigorous quality standards:
- RoHS3 Compliant: Meets European hazardous substance restrictions
- Lead-Free: Environmentally friendly Pb-free package
- ISO 9001 Manufacturing: Produced under quality management systems
- Automotive Quality: Related XA variants available for automotive applications
Supply Chain & Availability
Authorized Distributors
The XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C is available through major electronics distributors including:
- Digi-Key Electronics
- Mouser Electronics
- Arrow Electronics
- Avnet
- Regional distributors worldwide
Lead Time Considerations
- Standard lead times: typically 8-12 weeks
- Check with distributors for current stock availability
- Consider long-term availability for production designs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main advantage of the Spartan-3A DSP series?
The Spartan-3A DSP family offers industry-leading DSP performance-per-dollar, making advanced signal processing capabilities accessible for cost-sensitive applications without sacrificing functionality.
Can the XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C replace an ASIC?
Yes, this FPGA serves as an excellent ASIC alternative, eliminating high NRE costs, lengthy development cycles, and providing field-upgrade capability that ASICs cannot offer.
What programming languages are supported?
The device supports standard HDL languages including VHDL and Verilog, as well as high-level synthesis tools like System Generator for MATLAB/Simulink integration.
Is the device suitable for military or aerospace applications?
The commercial-grade “C” variant operates from 0°C to 85°C. For extended temperature ranges or aerospace requirements, consult AMD Xilinx for military-grade or XA automotive variants.
What is the difference between speed grades?
The “-5” speed grade indicates high-performance operation with faster timing characteristics compared to lower speed grades (-4), enabling higher clock frequencies and reduced propagation delays.
Technical Support & Resources
Documentation Access
- Complete datasheets available from AMD Xilinx
- User guides and application notes
- Design constraint files
- Package mechanical drawings
Community Support
- AMD Xilinx support forums
- Developer community networks
- Technical application engineers
- Training webinars and tutorials
Conclusion: Why Choose XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C
The XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C represents an optimal balance of performance, cost, and flexibility for DSP-intensive applications. With 1.8 million system gates, dedicated DSP blocks, 189 kB RAM, and 309 I/O pins in a compact CSBGA package, this Spartan-3A DSP FPGA delivers the processing power needed for modern digital systems.
Whether you’re developing industrial automation equipment, consumer electronics, communications infrastructure, or medical devices, the XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C provides a proven, reliable platform backed by comprehensive development tools and extensive ecosystem support.
Its RoHS3 compliance, lead-free package, and mature manufacturing process ensure long-term availability and environmental responsibility, making it an excellent choice for both prototype and production designs.
For engineers seeking high-performance DSP capabilities without premium pricing, the XC3SD1800A-5CSG484C stands out as a compelling solution in the programmable logic marketplace.
