Overview of XC5204-5TQ144C Field Programmable Gate Array
The XC5204-5TQ144C is a versatile field programmable gate array (FPGA) from the renowned XC5200 family, originally designed by Xilinx (now part of AMD). This programmable logic device combines cost-effectiveness with robust functionality, making it an ideal choice for industrial applications, communications equipment, and embedded systems requiring reliable reprogrammable logic solutions.
As part of the industry-leading Xilinx FPGA product line, the XC5204-5TQ144C delivers exceptional performance in a compact 144-pin TQFP package, providing engineers with the flexibility to implement complex digital designs while maintaining a small footprint.
Key Technical Specifications
Core Performance Features
| Specification |
Value |
| Logic Cells |
480 Cells |
| Gate Count |
6,000 Gates (6K Gates) |
| Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) |
120 CLBs |
| Maximum Operating Frequency |
83 MHz |
| Technology Node |
0.5µm (CMOS) |
| Supply Voltage |
5V |
| Speed Grade |
-5 |
Package and I/O Specifications
| Parameter |
Details |
| Package Type |
TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
144 pins |
| I/O Pins |
117 User I/O |
| Package Dimensions |
1.6mm height |
| Lead Finish |
Tin/Lead (Sn85Pb15) |
| Operating Temperature |
Commercial (0°C to 70°C) |
Advanced Architecture and Design Capabilities
VersaBlock Logic Module Technology
The XC5204-5TQ144C incorporates Xilinx’s innovative VersaBlock logic module architecture, which provides designers with exceptional flexibility in implementing complex logic functions. This architecture features:
- Register-Rich Design: Abundant flip-flops and latches for sequential logic implementation
- SRAM-Based Configuration: Reprogrammable architecture allowing unlimited design iterations
- Three-Layer Metal CMOS Process: Enhanced routing resources and signal integrity
- Flexible Logic Cell Structure: Optimized for both combinatorial and sequential designs
VersaRing I/O Interface
The advanced VersaRing I/O interface delivers a superior logic cell to I/O ratio, enabling designers to maximize connectivity while maintaining compact designs. Key I/O features include:
- Up to 117 user-configurable I/O pins
- Programmable output slew-rate control for noise reduction
- Zero flip-flop hold time for input registers
- Support for multiple I/O standards
- Enhanced signal integrity and EMI control
Application Areas and Use Cases
Industrial Electronics
The XC5204-5TQ144C excels in industrial control systems where reliability and reprogrammability are essential:
- Process control automation
- Motor control systems
- Industrial monitoring equipment
- Factory automation controllers
- PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) interfaces
Communications Equipment
For telecommunications and networking applications, this FPGA provides:
- Protocol conversion and bridging
- Custom communication interfaces
- Signal processing for data transmission
- Network packet processing
- Telecommunications switching systems
Embedded System Integration
| Application Domain |
Implementation Benefits |
| Automotive Electronics |
Body electronics, lighting control, dashboard systems |
| Point of Sale (POS) Systems |
Transaction processing, peripheral interface control |
| Wired Networking |
Ethernet controllers, routing logic, data buffering |
| Medical Devices |
Data acquisition, sensor interfacing, control logic |
| Consumer Electronics |
Custom logic functions, interface bridging |
Design Software and Development Tools
Supported Design Entry Methods
The XC5204-5TQ144C is compatible with industry-standard development environments:
- Schematic Capture: Visual design entry for intuitive circuit creation
- VHDL Synthesis: Hardware description language for complex designs
- Verilog HDL: Alternative HDL for behavioral and structural modeling
- ABEL: Advanced Boolean equation language support
- Logic Synthesis Tools: Integration with third-party synthesis solutions
Development Platform Compatibility
| Platform Type |
Supported Systems |
| Workstations |
Unix-based systems, Linux platforms |
| PC Platforms |
Windows-based development environments |
| Design Software |
Xilinx ISE Design Suite, Foundation Series |
| Simulation Tools |
ModelSim, Active-HDL, VCS |
Performance Characteristics and Timing
Speed Grade Analysis
The “-5” speed grade of the XC5204-5TQ144C indicates optimized performance characteristics:
- Propagation Delay: Approximately 5.6ns typical
- Clock-to-Output Delay: Optimized for high-speed applications
- Setup and Hold Times: Zero hold time for input registers
- Maximum Toggle Frequency: 83 MHz system operation
Power Consumption Profile
| Operating Mode |
Typical Current |
Power Dissipation |
| Active Operation |
150-300mA (design dependent) |
0.75-1.5W typical |
| Standby Mode |
Low power consumption |
Minimal static power |
| Peak Operation |
Application specific |
Design dependent |
Comparison with Related XC5200 Family Devices
XC5200 Family Portfolio
| Part Number |
Gates |
Cells |
CLBs |
I/O (144-TQFP) |
| XC5202 |
3K |
256 |
64 |
117 |
| XC5204-5TQ144C |
6K |
480 |
120 |
117 |
| XC5206 |
10K |
784 |
196 |
117 |
| XC5210 |
14K |
1296 |
324 |
117 |
The XC5204-5TQ144C positions itself as a mid-range solution, offering excellent balance between logic capacity and cost-effectiveness for medium-complexity designs.
Advantages Over Traditional ASIC Solutions
Design Flexibility Benefits
- No NRE Costs: Eliminate expensive mask charges and fabrication setup fees
- Rapid Prototyping: Immediate implementation and testing of design changes
- Field Upgradability: Update logic functions without hardware replacement
- Shorter Time-to-Market: Accelerated development cycles compared to ASIC flows
- Lower Risk: Test and validate designs before committing to production
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
| Factor |
FPGA (XC5204-5TQ144C) |
ASIC Alternative |
| Initial Investment |
Low to moderate |
Very high |
| Development Time |
Weeks to months |
6-18 months |
| Design Changes |
Immediate, no cost |
Expensive re-fabrication |
| Volume Threshold |
Economic at low-medium volumes |
Only economic at high volumes |
| Risk Level |
Low |
High |
PCB Design Considerations
Layout Guidelines
When designing with the XC5204-5TQ144C TQFP-144 package:
- Thermal Management: Ensure adequate heat dissipation for sustained operation
- Decoupling Capacitors: Place 0.1µF capacitors close to each power pin pair
- Ground Plane: Use solid ground planes for noise immunity
- Signal Integrity: Maintain controlled impedance for high-speed signals
- Pin Assignment: Optimize I/O placement to minimize trace lengths
Recommended PCB Stack-Up
| Layer |
Function |
Notes |
| Top |
Signal/Component |
TQFP placement and routing |
| Layer 2 |
Ground Plane |
Solid GND for signal return |
| Layer 3 |
Power Plane |
5V distribution |
| Bottom |
Signal |
Additional routing and components |
Programming and Configuration
Configuration Methods
The XC5204-5TQ144C supports multiple configuration modes:
- Master Serial Mode: FPGA controls configuration PROM
- Slave Serial Mode: External microcontroller provides configuration data
- Boundary Scan (JTAG): IEEE 1149.1 compliant programming interface
- Parallel Configuration: High-speed configuration option
Configuration Memory Options
- Serial PROM: XC1700 series configuration memories
- Flash Memory: Standard SPI flash devices
- Microcontroller: Embedded processor configuration
- JTAG Programming: Development and debugging access
Quality and Reliability
Manufacturing Standards
The XC5204-5TQ144C is manufactured to stringent quality standards:
- Advanced 0.5µm three-layer metal CMOS process
- Comprehensive testing and screening procedures
- ESD protection on all I/O pins
- Latch-up resistant design
Environmental Compliance
| Compliance Standard |
Status |
| RoHS |
Lead-free options available |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to 70°C (Commercial) |
| Storage Temperature |
-65°C to 150°C |
| Humidity |
Non-condensing environments |
Ordering Information and Part Number Decoding
Part Number Breakdown
XC5204-5TQ144C decodes as:
- XC5204: Device family and gate count (5200 series, 4 = 6K gates)
- -5: Speed grade (commercial temperature, optimized performance)
- TQ: Package type (Thin Quad flat pack)
- 144: Pin count (144 pins)
- C: Commercial temperature range
Available Speed Grades
| Speed Grade |
Description |
Typical Applications |
| -4 |
Standard performance |
General-purpose designs |
| -5 |
Enhanced performance |
Speed-critical applications |
| -6 |
Maximum performance |
High-frequency systems |
Migration Path and Design Scalability
Upward Migration Options
Designers can easily migrate to higher-density devices within the XC5200 family:
- XC5206-5TQ144C: 10K gates, same package
- XC5210-5TQ144C: 14K gates, same package
- Pin-compatible: Minimal PCB redesign required
Alternative Package Options
The XC5204-5 is also available in:
- PQ100 (100-pin PQFP)
- PQ160 (160-pin PQFP)
- PC84 (84-pin PLCC)
- VQ100 (100-pin VQFP)
Support Resources and Documentation
Available Technical Resources
- Datasheet: Complete electrical and timing specifications
- User Guide: Comprehensive 73-page design reference
- Application Notes: Design tips and best practices
- PCB Footprints: CAD libraries for major design tools
- IBIS Models: Signal integrity simulation models
Design Support Tools
| Tool Category |
Available Resources |
| Schematic Symbols |
Altium, OrCAD, Eagle libraries |
| PCB Footprints |
Standard TQFP-144 patterns |
| 3D STEP Models |
Mechanical design integration |
| Simulation Models |
Timing and IBIS models |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between XC5204-5TQ144C and XC5204-6TQ144C?
The primary difference is the speed grade. The XC5204-5TQ144C offers enhanced performance characteristics compared to standard grades, while the -6 grade provides the highest speed performance with maximum operating frequencies. Choose the -5 grade for applications requiring good performance at a balanced cost point.
Is the XC5204-5TQ144C suitable for new designs?
While the XC5200 family is a mature product line, it remains suitable for cost-sensitive applications where proven technology and reliability are prioritized over cutting-edge features. For new high-performance designs, consider modern alternatives from the Spartan or Artix families.
What development tools are required?
The XC5204-5TQ144C is supported by Xilinx ISE Design Suite (legacy software). For design entry, you can use schematic capture, VHDL, or Verilog HDL. The device is also compatible with third-party synthesis tools.
Can I use 3.3V I/O with this device?
The XC5204-5TQ144C is a 5V device. For interfacing with 3.3V systems, external level shifters or voltage translation circuits are required to ensure proper signal levels and prevent damage to connected devices.
What is the typical development cycle time?
From initial concept to working prototype, development cycles typically range from 2-6 weeks, depending on design complexity. This represents a significant time advantage over ASIC alternatives, which can require 6-18 months.
Conclusion: Why Choose XC5204-5TQ144C
The XC5204-5TQ144C represents a proven, cost-effective FPGA solution for applications requiring:
- Moderate logic capacity: 6K gates and 480 logic cells
- Reliable performance: 83 MHz operation in industrial environments
- Design flexibility: SRAM-based reprogrammable architecture
- Compact footprint: 144-pin TQFP package
- Comprehensive support: Mature development tools and extensive documentation
Whether you’re developing industrial control systems, communication interfaces, or embedded logic solutions, the XC5204-5TQ144C delivers the perfect combination of capability, cost-effectiveness, and field-proven reliability. Its position within the extensive XC5200 family also provides clear migration paths as your design requirements evolve.
For engineers seeking a balance between functionality and economy in programmable logic solutions, the XC5204-5TQ144C continues to offer significant value in a wide range of applications.
