Overview of XC4044XLA-09HQ208C FPGA
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208C is a high-performance, high-capacity Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) manufactured by Xilinx (now AMD). This advanced programmable logic device belongs to the renowned XC4000XLA family and delivers exceptional processing capabilities with 27,000 gates, 1,600 configurable logic blocks (CLBs), and operates at speeds up to 227 MHz. Designed for industrial, telecommunications, and embedded systems applications, this Xilinx FPGA offers the flexibility of custom CMOS VLSI without the high initial costs and extended development cycles associated with traditional ASIC designs.
Key Technical Specifications
Core Performance Parameters
| Specification |
Value |
| Part Number |
XC4044XLA-09HQ208C |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD) |
| Product Family |
XC4000XLA/XV Series |
| Logic Elements |
1,600 CLBs (Configurable Logic Blocks) |
| Total Gate Count |
27,000 Gates |
| Maximum Frequency |
227 MHz |
| Technology Node |
0.35μm CMOS |
| Operating Voltage |
3.3V |
| Package Type |
HQ208 (208-Pin HSPQFP) |
| Temperature Range |
Commercial Grade |
| Speed Grade |
-09 (9ns) |
Understanding the XC4044XLA-09HQ208C Part Number
Breaking down the part number helps engineers understand the exact specifications:
- XC4044XLA: Device family and density (44,000 system gates)
- 09: Speed grade (9 nanoseconds)
- HQ208: Package type (208-pin High-density Quad Flat Pack)
- C: Commercial temperature range (0°C to +85°C)
Package and Pin Configuration
HQ208 Package Details
| Package Feature |
Specification |
| Package Style |
HSPQFP (Heat-Spreader Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
208 pins |
| Lead Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Body Dimensions |
28mm x 28mm (nominal) |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) |
| Seating Plane Height |
Low profile for compact designs |
Performance Characteristics & Architecture
Logic Capacity and Resources
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208C offers substantial logic resources for complex digital designs:
- 1,600 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) for flexible logic implementation
- 27,000 equivalent gates providing ample design capacity
- Abundant routing resources ensuring efficient signal interconnection
- Dedicated carry logic for high-speed arithmetic operations
- On-chip RAM for embedded memory applications
Speed and Timing Performance
| Performance Metric |
Specification |
| Maximum Operating Frequency |
227 MHz |
| Speed Grade |
-09 (9ns) |
| Clock-to-Output Delay |
Optimized for high-speed applications |
| Internal Clock Distribution |
Low-skew global clock network |
| Propagation Delay |
9ns (typical) |
XC4044XLA-09HQ208C Applications
Primary Application Areas
- Telecommunications Equipment
- Digital signal processing
- Protocol conversion
- Communication interfaces
- Data encryption/decryption
- Industrial Control Systems
- Motor control algorithms
- Process automation
- Real-time monitoring
- Sensor data acquisition
- Embedded Systems
- Custom peripheral interfaces
- System-on-chip prototypes
- Hardware acceleration
- Logic consolidation
- Test and Measurement
- Pattern generation
- Data acquisition
- Protocol analysis
- Automated test equipment
- Medical Instrumentation
- Image processing
- Signal conditioning
- Data filtering
- Real-time analysis
Electrical Characteristics
Power Supply Requirements
| Parameter |
Minimum |
Typical |
Maximum |
Unit |
| Core Voltage (VCCINT) |
3.0 |
3.3 |
3.6 |
V |
| I/O Voltage (VCCIO) |
3.0 |
3.3 |
3.6 |
V |
| Power Consumption |
– |
TBD |
– |
W |
Environmental Specifications
| Parameter |
Commercial Grade (C) |
| Operating Temperature Range |
0°C to +85°C |
| Storage Temperature Range |
-65°C to +150°C |
| Junction Temperature |
125°C (max) |
Design and Development Tools
Recommended Software
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208C is supported by Xilinx’s comprehensive development suite:
- ISE Design Suite – Legacy tool support for XC4000 family
- Foundation Series – Integrated design environment
- FPGA Editor – Physical design visualization and editing
- Timing Analyzer – Performance verification and optimization
Programming and Configuration
| Configuration Method |
Description |
| Master Serial Mode |
FPGA controls configuration PROM |
| Slave Serial Mode |
External controller manages configuration |
| Boundary Scan (JTAG) |
IEEE 1149.1 compliant programming |
| SelectMAP |
Parallel configuration interface |
XC4044XLA vs. Modern FPGA Families
Comparison with Current Technology
| Feature |
XC4044XLA-09HQ208C |
Modern FPGAs |
| Process Node |
0.35μm |
7nm – 28nm |
| Logic Density |
27K gates |
Up to 50M+ gates |
| Clock Speed |
227 MHz |
500 MHz – 1 GHz+ |
| Power Efficiency |
Standard CMOS |
Ultra-low power nodes |
| Voltage |
3.3V |
0.9V – 1.8V |
| Hard IP Blocks |
Limited |
DSP, Memory, Transceivers |
While newer FPGA families offer higher performance and density, the XC4044XLA-09HQ208C remains valuable for legacy system maintenance, replacement parts, and applications where proven reliability is paramount.
Sourcing and Availability
Current Market Status
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208C is considered a mature product, with availability primarily through:
- Authorized Distributors: DigiKey, Mouser, Arrow Electronics
- Rochester Electronics: Authorized continuing manufacturer
- Specialized FPGA Suppliers: FPGAkey, IC-1000, and similar vendors
- Brokers and Surplus Markets: For obsolete or hard-to-find quantities
Pricing Information
Pricing varies based on quantity and source:
| Quantity |
Typical Price Range |
| 1-2 units |
$150 – $200 |
| 3-10 units |
$120 – $140 |
| 11-25 units |
$110 – $125 |
| 26+ units |
Request Quote |
Note: Prices fluctuate based on market conditions and availability
Quality and Reliability
Manufacturing Standards
- RoHS Compliance: Check specific lot/date code
- Quality Grade: Industrial/Commercial
- MTBF: Designed for long-term reliability
- ESD Protection: Built-in protection circuitry
- Moisture Sensitivity: MSL 3 (typical)
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation Available
- Product Datasheet – Complete electrical and functional specifications
- User Guide – XC4000 Series architecture and design guidelines
- Application Notes – Design tips and best practices
- Package Drawings – Mechanical specifications for PCB layout
- Timing Reports – Detailed timing characteristics
Design Considerations
PCB Layout Guidelines
- Power Supply Decoupling: Place 0.1μF capacitors near each VCC pin
- Trace Impedance: Match critical signals to prevent reflections
- Ground Planes: Solid ground plane for noise immunity
- Thermal Management: Adequate airflow and heat dissipation
- Signal Integrity: Minimize trace lengths for high-speed signals
Programming Best Practices
- Use synchronous design methodology for reliable operation
- Implement proper clock domain crossing techniques
- Utilize internal registers for improved timing performance
- Apply timing constraints accurately in design tools
- Verify design meets setup and hold time requirements
Replacement and Alternative Options
Cross-Reference Parts
| Alternative Part Number |
Differences |
| XC4044XLA-08HQ208C |
Faster speed grade (-08) |
| XC4044XLA-09BG352C |
Different package (352 BGA) |
| XC4044XLA-09HQ208I |
Industrial temperature range |
| Spartan-3 Series |
Modern replacement with more features |
Migration Path
For new designs, consider migrating to:
- Spartan-7 Family – Cost-effective with modern features
- Artix-7 Family – Higher performance and lower power
- Lattice MachXO Series – Alternative vendor solution
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between XC4044XLA-09HQ208C and XC4044XLA-09HQ208I?
The suffix “C” indicates commercial temperature range (0°C to +85°C), while “I” denotes industrial temperature range (-40°C to +100°C). All other specifications remain identical.
Is the XC4044XLA-09HQ208C still in production?
Original Xilinx production has ceased, but Rochester Electronics manufactures this device as an authorized source for legacy support and replacement applications.
What programming cable is needed for XC4044XLA-09HQ208C?
You can use Xilinx Platform Cable USB or Parallel Cable III/IV for JTAG programming. Ensure compatibility with your development software version.
Can I replace XC4044XLA-09HQ208C with a newer FPGA?
Direct pin-compatible replacements are limited. Migration requires redesign to accommodate newer FPGA architectures, power requirements, and I/O standards.
What is the typical lead time for ordering?
Lead times vary: authorized distributors may have stock (1-2 days), while Rochester Electronics production orders typically require 12-16 weeks.
Storage and Handling Recommendations
Proper Storage Conditions
- Temperature: 15°C to 30°C
- Humidity: 30% to 70% RH non-condensing
- Packaging: Keep in original moisture barrier bag until use
- ESD Protection: Handle with proper anti-static procedures
- Shelf Life: Check moisture sensitivity level requirements
Installation Guidelines
- Verify PCB pad design matches package footprint
- Use proper solder paste and reflow profile
- Inspect for bridging and insufficient solder joints
- Apply conformal coating if required for environment
- Perform functional testing after assembly
Conclusion
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208C represents mature FPGA technology that continues to serve critical roles in legacy systems, industrial applications, and designs requiring proven reliability. With 27,000 gates, 1,600 CLBs, and 227 MHz performance in a compact 208-pin HSPQFP package, this Xilinx FPGA provides robust programmable logic capabilities. While newer FPGA families offer enhanced features and performance, the XC4044XLA-09HQ208C remains an essential component for maintenance, repair, and applications where design heritage and long-term availability matter.
Whether you’re maintaining existing equipment, sourcing replacement parts, or evaluating FPGA options for a new project, understanding the complete specifications and capabilities of the XC4044XLA-09HQ208C ensures successful implementation and reliable operation.
