Product Overview: XC4044XLA-09HQ240I FPGA
The XC4044XLA-09HQ240I is a sophisticated Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from AMD’s XC4000XLA series, designed to deliver exceptional performance for complex digital logic applications. This commercial-grade FPGA combines advanced programmable logic capabilities with industrial-standard packaging, making it an ideal choice for engineers requiring reliable, high-density programmable solutions.
Key Product Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Part Number |
XC4044XLA-09HQ240I |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (Xilinx) |
| Product Series |
XC4000XLA |
| Logic Elements/Cells |
4,000 |
| Total RAM Bits |
16,384 bits |
| I/O Count |
192 |
| Speed Grade |
-09 (9ns) |
| Package Type |
240-CQFP (Quad Flat Package) |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°C to +100°C (Industrial) |
| Supply Voltage |
3.3V ± 0.3V |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
Technical Specifications and Features
Core Architecture and Performance
The XC4044XLA-09HQ240I features a robust architecture optimized for mid-range applications requiring substantial logic density. With 4,000 logic cells, this FPGA provides ample resources for implementing complex digital designs, from communication protocols to signal processing algorithms.
Logic Resources
| Resource Type |
Quantity |
Description |
| Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) |
1,024 |
Core logic building blocks |
| Total Flip-Flops |
2,048 |
Sequential logic elements |
| Distributed RAM |
16 Kb |
Flexible memory resources |
| User I/O Pins |
192 |
Maximum configurable I/O |
| Gate Count |
~44,000 |
System gate equivalent |
Package and Pinout Configuration
The 240-pin CQFP (Ceramic Quad Flat Package) offers several advantages for professional PCB designers:
- Compact footprint: 32mm x 32mm package size
- 0.5mm pin pitch: Facilitates high-density board layouts
- Excellent thermal characteristics: Ceramic construction for superior heat dissipation
- Industrial-grade reliability: Suitable for demanding environmental conditions
Performance Characteristics
Speed and Timing Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
Unit |
| Speed Grade |
-09 |
– |
| Maximum Operating Frequency |
111 MHz |
MHz |
| Propagation Delay |
9 |
ns |
| Clock-to-Output Delay |
5.5 |
ns |
| Setup Time |
3.5 |
ns |
| Hold Time |
0 |
ns |
Power Consumption Profile
The XC4044XLA-09HQ240I is engineered for efficient power management, crucial for portable and power-sensitive applications:
- Standby Power: Typical 50mW
- Active Power: Design-dependent, typically 250-500mW
- Power Supply: Single 3.3V rail simplifies power design
- Advanced Power Management: Supports partial reconfiguration for dynamic power optimization
Application Areas and Use Cases
Industrial Control Systems
The XC4044XLA-09HQ240I excels in industrial automation applications where reliable operation and extensive I/O capabilities are essential:
- Motor control systems
- PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) interfaces
- Industrial protocol bridges (Modbus, Profibus, EtherCAT)
- Sensor data acquisition and processing
Communications Infrastructure
This Xilinx FPGA provides the flexibility and performance needed for various communication applications:
- Protocol conversion and translation
- Digital signal processing for telecommunications
- Network packet processing
- Custom communication controllers
Embedded Systems Development
Perfect for custom embedded solutions requiring programmable logic:
- Custom peripheral interfaces
- Real-time control systems
- Hardware acceleration for embedded processors
- Prototype and production embedded systems
Design Considerations and Implementation
PCB Layout Guidelines
Decoupling and Power Integrity
| Component |
Quantity |
Placement |
Value |
| Bulk Capacitors |
2-4 |
Near package |
10µF – 47µF |
| Bypass Capacitors |
12-16 |
At each VCC pin |
0.1µF ceramic |
| High-Frequency Caps |
4-6 |
Critical pins |
1000pF – 4700pF |
Thermal Management Recommendations
- Maximum junction temperature: 125°C
- Recommended heat sink: For continuous operation above 85°C ambient
- Thermal resistance (θJA): 26°C/W (with adequate airflow)
- PCB considerations: Use thermal vias for improved heat dissipation
Configuration and Programming
The XC4044XLA-09HQ240I supports multiple configuration modes:
- Master Serial Mode: FPGA controls configuration PROM
- Slave Serial Mode: External controller manages configuration
- Slave Parallel Mode: Fast configuration for high-volume production
- Boundary Scan (JTAG): IEEE 1149.1 compliant for testing and programming
Comparison with Related Products
XC4000XLA Series Family Comparison
| Part Number |
Logic Cells |
I/O Pins |
Speed Grade |
Package |
| XC4013XLA |
1,300 |
144 |
-09 |
208-PQFP |
| XC4020XLA |
2,000 |
160 |
-09 |
208-PQFP |
| XC4028XLA |
2,800 |
176 |
-09 |
240-CQFP |
| XC4044XLA |
4,000 |
192 |
-09 |
240-CQFP |
| XC4062XLA |
6,200 |
224 |
-09 |
240-CQFP |
Development Tools and Support
Xilinx ISE Design Suite
The XC4044XLA-09HQ240I is fully supported by Xilinx ISE (Integrated Software Environment), providing comprehensive design tools:
- HDL synthesis: VHDL and Verilog support
- Implementation tools: Place and route optimization
- Timing analysis: Static timing analyzer
- Simulation: Integrated ModelSim support
- ChipScope: On-chip debugging capabilities
Design Resources
Available development resources include:
- Reference designs and application notes
- Evaluation boards and development kits
- Extensive IP core library
- Technical documentation and datasheets
- Community forums and technical support
Quality and Reliability Standards
Compliance and Certifications
The XC4044XLA-09HQ240I meets stringent quality standards:
- RoHS Compliant: Lead-free manufacturing
- REACH Compliant: Environmental standards
- Temperature Cycling: 1000 cycles (-55°C to +125°C)
- MTBF: >1,000,000 hours at 55°C
- Moisture Sensitivity Level: MSL 3
Quality Assurance
| Test Parameter |
Specification |
Standard |
| Functional Testing |
100% tested |
Per datasheet |
| Burn-in |
168 hours |
MIL-STD-883 |
| Temperature Cycling |
1000 cycles |
JEDEC JESD22-A104 |
| ESD Protection |
2kV HBM |
JEDEC JESD22-A114 |
Ordering Information and Availability
Part Number Breakdown
XC4044XLA-09HQ240I decodes as:
- XC: Xilinx product family prefix
- 4044: 4,000 logic cell device
- XLA: Extended low-power architecture
- 09: Speed grade (-9ns)
- HQ: 240-pin CQFP package
- 240: Pin count
- I: Industrial temperature range (-40°C to +100°C)
Package Options
| Package Code |
Package Type |
Pin Count |
Body Size |
| HQ240 |
Ceramic Quad Flat Pack |
240 |
32mm x 32mm |
| BG256 |
Ball Grid Array |
256 |
23mm x 23mm |
| PQ240 |
Plastic Quad Flat Pack |
240 |
32mm x 32mm |
Storage and Handling
Proper Storage Guidelines
To ensure long-term reliability:
- Storage temperature: -55°C to +150°C
- Relative humidity: <90% non-condensing
- ESD protection: Store in anti-static containers
- Shelf life: Unlimited when properly stored
- Baking requirements: Follow MSL 3 guidelines before reflow
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between XC4044XLA-08 and XC4044XLA-09?
The primary difference is the speed grade: the -08 version operates at 8ns (125 MHz max), while the -09 version operates at 9ns (111 MHz max). The -09 version may be more cost-effective for applications not requiring maximum performance.
Can the XC4044XLA-09HQ240I replace the XC4044XLA-08HQ240C?
Yes, the XC4044XLA-09HQ240I can functionally replace the -08 version, though it has slightly relaxed timing specifications. The “I” suffix indicates industrial temperature range (-40°C to +100°C) versus “C” commercial range (0°C to +85°C).
What development tools are required?
Xilinx ISE WebPACK (free version) or ISE Foundation supports the XC4000XLA series. A compatible JTAG programmer (Platform Cable USB, Digilent JTAG-HS2) is required for configuration and debugging.
Is this FPGA suitable for beginners?
While the XC4044XLA offers substantial resources, beginners may find newer Xilinx families (Spartan, Artix) easier to work with due to better documentation and modern tool support. However, it remains an excellent choice for maintaining legacy designs.
Conclusion
The XC4044XLA-09HQ240I represents a mature, reliable FPGA solution for industrial and commercial applications requiring substantial programmable logic resources. With 4,000 logic cells, 192 I/O pins, and industrial-grade temperature performance, this device continues to serve mission-critical applications where proven reliability and extensive field history are paramount.
Whether you’re maintaining existing designs, developing industrial control systems, or creating custom communication interfaces, the XC4044XLA-09HQ240I provides the performance, flexibility, and reliability needed for demanding applications. Its comprehensive development tool support and extensive documentation make it an accessible choice for experienced FPGA designers.
