Overview of XC5204-6PC84C Field Programmable Gate Array

The XC5204-6PC84C is a robust Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from AMD’s (formerly Xilinx) acclaimed XC5200 family. This versatile programmable logic device delivers exceptional performance with 480 logic elements and 120 CLBs, making it an ideal solution for complex digital circuit designs, embedded applications, and legacy system upgrades.

Engineered with proven SRAM-based architecture, this FPGA combines flexibility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness in a compact 84-pin PLCC package. Whether you’re developing telecommunications equipment, industrial control systems, or custom digital logic applications, the XC5204-6PC84C provides the programmable power you need.

Key Technical Specifications

Advanced Features and Architecture

VersaBlock Logic Module Technology

The XC5204-6PC84C incorporates AMD’s innovative VersaBlock™ logic module, which provides:

• Register and latch-rich architecture for complex state machines
• Flexible logic cell configuration for optimal resource utilization
• Efficient implementation of arithmetic functions and data path operations
• High-density logic integration in a compact footprint

VersaRing I/O Interface

The proprietary VersaRing I/O interface delivers:

• High logic cell to I/O ratio maximizing design efficiency
• Programmable output slew-rate control for signal integrity
• Zero flip-flop hold time simplifying system timing constraints
• Support for various I/O standards and voltage levels

Hierarchical Interconnect Architecture

The rich interconnect hierarchy enables:

• Fast signal routing with predictable timing
• Efficient place-and-route optimization
• Reduced design iteration cycles
• Superior performance for critical path signals

Performance Characteristics

Target Applications

The XC5204-6PC84C FPGA excels in diverse applications:

Industrial & Control Systems

• Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
• Motor control and drive systems
• Industrial automation equipment
• Process control interfaces

Communication Equipment

• Protocol converters and bridges
• Data acquisition systems
• Signal processing applications
• Network interface controllers

Legacy System Maintenance

• Replacement for obsolete components
• System upgrade and modernization
• Long-term product support
• Retrofit applications

Custom Digital Logic

• ASIC prototyping and emulation
• Glue logic implementation
• Custom interface development
• State machine controllers

Design Support and Development Tools

Compatible Software Environments

The XC5204-6PC84C is fully supported by industry-standard design tools:

• Xilinx ISE Design Suite – Complete design flow from entry to implementation
• VHDL & Verilog HDL – Industry-standard hardware description languages
• Schematic Capture – Visual design entry for rapid prototyping
• ABEL – Advanced Boolean equation language support

Design Entry Methods

Platform Support

• Windows workstations
• Linux development environments
• Unix-based design platforms
• Industry-standard EDA tool integration

Package Information

84-Pin PLCC/LCC Package Details

Electrical Characteristics

Power Supply Requirements

• Core Voltage (VCC): 5.0V ±5%
• Operating Range: 4.75V to 5.25V
• Recommended Decoupling: 0.1µF ceramic capacitors per power pin
• Power-on Reset: Internal or external options available

Timing Performance

The -6 speed grade provides balanced performance for general applications with predictable timing characteristics suitable for 83 MHz operation and reliable system integration.

Comparison with Related Products

Quality and Reliability

Manufacturing Standards

• Manufactured using proven 0.5µm CMOS process
• Three-layer metal interconnect for reliability
• Commercial temperature grade testing
• Industry-standard quality assurance

RoHS Status

Note: The XC5204-6PC84C is RoHS non-compliant, containing lead in the package finish (Sn85Pb15). This product is suitable for legacy applications and certain exempted use cases.

Ordering Information and Availability

Part Number Breakdown

XC5204-6PC84C decodes as:

• XC5204 = Device family and size
• -6 = Speed grade (standard performance)
• PC84 = 84-pin plastic chip carrier
• C = Commercial temperature range (0°C to +85°C)

Product Status

The XC5204-6PC84C is currently listed as obsolete by the manufacturer. However, inventory may still be available through authorized distributors and specialized component suppliers for legacy system support and maintenance applications.

Why Choose XC5204-6PC84C?

Cost-Effective Solution

The XC5200 family was specifically engineered to deliver high functionality at competitive pricing, making it ideal for cost-sensitive applications requiring programmable logic.

Proven Reliability

Building on three generations of successful SRAM FPGA architectures, the XC5200 series has demonstrated field-proven reliability across diverse industries and applications.

Design Flexibility

The SRAM-based reprogrammable architecture allows unlimited design iterations, field updates, and in-system reconfiguration for maximum flexibility.

Rich Feature Set

Despite its modest gate count, the XC5204-6PC84C offers sophisticated features including register-rich architecture, flexible I/O, and comprehensive design tool support.

Technical Support Resources

Documentation

• Complete device datasheets
• Application notes and design guides
• Reference designs and examples
• Migration guides from previous families

Community Resources

• Technical forums and discussion groups
• Design examples and code libraries
• University and educational support
• Third-party IP core repositories

Integration with Modern Xilinx FPGA Solutions

While the XC5204-6PC84C represents proven legacy technology, designers working with current-generation FPGAs can leverage similar architectural concepts. Modern Xilinx FPGA families offer enhanced capabilities while maintaining design methodology compatibility, enabling knowledge transfer and upgrade paths for existing XC5200-based designs.

Competitive Advantages

Versus Alternative Solutions

Compared to Discrete Logic:

• Reduced board space and component count
• Single-chip integration
• Field programmability
• Lower total system cost

Compared to Microcontrollers:

• Parallel processing capability
• Deterministic timing
• Custom hardware acceleration
• High-speed I/O operations

Compared to CPLDs:

• Higher logic density
• More flexible architecture
• Better price per gate
• Enhanced routing resources

Design Considerations

Thermal Management

With its 0.5µm CMOS technology and 5V operation, designers should consider:

• Adequate PCB copper for heat dissipation
• Proper airflow in enclosed systems
• Thermal monitoring for critical applications
• Junction temperature calculations for reliability

Power Distribution

Best practices include:

• Dedicated power planes for clean VCC distribution
• Multiple decoupling capacitors (0.1µF) near device pins
• Low-inductance power supply connections
• Proper ground plane implementation

Signal Integrity

To maintain signal quality:

• Control impedance on high-speed traces
• Minimize stub lengths on critical signals
• Use proper termination techniques
• Consider slew rate programming for EMI control

Environmental Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the XC5204-6PC84C still in production?

The device is listed as obsolete by AMD (Xilinx), but may be available through authorized distributors for legacy system support and maintenance.

Can I use this FPGA in new designs?

While technically capable, obsolete status means limited future availability. Consider current-generation alternatives for new production designs.

What tools do I need for development?

Xilinx ISE Design Suite or compatible third-party synthesis tools supporting the XC5200 family are required for design entry, synthesis, and implementation.

What is the difference between speed grades?

Speed grades (-5, -6, etc.) indicate timing performance. The -6 grade offers standard performance at 83 MHz maximum frequency.

Are there pin-compatible alternatives?

Contact AMD or authorized distributors for current-generation migration recommendations and pin-compatible upgrade options.

Conclusion

The XC5204-6PC84C represents a well-established FPGA solution combining proven architecture, comprehensive design tool support, and cost-effective implementation. While designated as obsolete, it continues to serve critical roles in legacy system maintenance, educational applications, and specialized embedded designs where its capabilities align perfectly with project requirements.

For engineers maintaining existing XC5200-based systems or requiring modest programmable logic density with excellent design tool support, the XC5204-6PC84C delivers reliable performance in a compact, industry-standard package.