Overview of XC5204-6PQ100I Field Programmable Gate Array
The XC5204-6PQ100I is a high-performance field programmable gate array from the XC5200 family, designed for industrial temperature range applications. This SRAM-based FPGA delivers 6,000 gates with 480 logic cells, making it an ideal solution for industrial automation, control systems, and embedded applications requiring robust programmable logic capabilities.
Key Specifications of XC5204-6PQ100I
Technical Specifications Table
| Specification |
Details |
| Part Number |
XC5204-6PQ100I |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx FPGA (now AMD) |
| Family |
XC5200 Series |
| Gate Count |
6,000 Gates |
| Logic Cells |
480 Cells |
| Maximum Frequency |
83 MHz |
| Technology |
0.5µm Three-Layer Metal CMOS |
| Operating Voltage |
5V |
| Temperature Range |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
| Package Type |
100-Pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Status |
Legacy Product – Not Recommended for New Designs |
Performance Characteristics
| Parameter |
Value |
| Speed Grade |
-6 (Standard speed) |
| I/O Pins |
81 User I/O |
| Logic Cells |
480 (120 CLBs) |
| System Gates |
4,000-6,000 equivalent gates |
| Operating Frequency |
Up to 83 MHz |
| Architecture |
SRAM-based reprogrammable |
XC5204-6PQ100I Architecture and Features
Core FPGA Architecture
The XC5204-6PQ100I utilizes an advanced SRAM-based programmable architecture that combines flexibility with performance. Built on a mature 0.5µm CMOS process technology, this FPGA features the innovative VersaBlock logic module and VersaRing I/O interface, providing designers with comprehensive routing resources and design flexibility.
Key Architectural Features
VersaBlock Logic Module: The core building block consists of 120 configurable logic blocks (CLBs), each containing multiple logic cells that can be configured for various functions including combinatorial logic, sequential elements, and memory functions.
VersaRing I/O Interface: This innovative I/O structure provides high-speed connectivity with programmable output slew-rate control, minimizing noise while maximizing signal integrity and system performance.
Hierarchical Interconnect: Rich interconnect resources ensure efficient signal routing between logic blocks, reducing propagation delays and improving overall system timing.
Applications and Use Cases
Industrial Automation Systems
The XC5204-6PQ100I excels in industrial control environments where reliability and temperature tolerance are paramount. Common applications include:
- Process control systems
- Manufacturing execution platforms
- Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Industrial protocol converters
- Motor control interfaces
- Sensor data acquisition systems
Embedded Control Applications
With its register-rich architecture and flexible I/O configuration, the XC5204-6PQ100I is well-suited for:
- Embedded system controllers
- Communication interface bridging
- Custom peripheral implementations
- Real-time control systems
- Digital signal processing tasks
- Legacy system maintenance
Design Tools and Development Support
Software Development Environment
| Tool Category |
Supported Tools |
| Design Entry |
Schematic Capture, VHDL, Verilog HDL, ABEL |
| Development Suite |
Xilinx ISE Design Suite |
| Simulation |
ModelSim, ISim |
| Platform Support |
Windows PC, Unix Workstations |
Programming and Configuration
The XC5204-6PQ100I supports multiple configuration modes:
- JTAG boundary scan programming
- Serial configuration from PROM
- Parallel configuration modes
- In-system programmability
Package Information and Pin Configuration
PQFP100 Package Details
| Package Characteristic |
Specification |
| Package Type |
Plastic Quad Flat Pack |
| Total Pins |
100 |
| Pin Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Body Size |
14mm x 14mm |
| Height |
Low-profile design |
| Mounting |
Surface Mount Technology |
Pin Distribution
- User I/O Pins: 81 configurable pins
- Power Supply Pins: Multiple VCC and GND
- Configuration Pins: JTAG and mode selection
- Clock Inputs: Dedicated global clock nets
XC5204-6PQ100I vs. Modern Alternatives
Comparison with Current FPGA Options
| Feature |
XC5204-6PQ100I |
Modern Equivalent |
| Technology |
0.5µm |
16nm-28nm |
| Power Consumption |
Higher |
Significantly Lower |
| Logic Density |
6K gates |
100K+ gates |
| Speed |
83 MHz |
500+ MHz |
| Voltage |
5V |
1.0V-3.3V |
| Design Tools |
ISE (Legacy) |
Vivado Design Suite |
Migration Considerations
For new designs, consider modern alternatives from the Spartan-7, Artix-7, or equivalent low-cost FPGA families that offer:
- Higher logic density
- Lower power consumption
- Advanced clocking resources
- Enhanced DSP capabilities
- Modern tool support
Procurement and Availability
Current Market Status
The XC5204-6PQ100I is classified as a legacy component and is not recommended for new designs. However, it remains available through:
- Authorized distributors (limited stock)
- Electronic component suppliers
- Secondary market sources
- Surplus and obsolete parts specialists
Quality Assurance
When sourcing XC5204-6PQ100I components:
- Verify authenticity from authorized channels
- Request certificate of conformance
- Check moisture sensitivity level (MSL) ratings
- Ensure proper electrostatic discharge (ESD) handling
- Verify date codes and storage conditions
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation Resources
| Resource Type |
Description |
| Datasheet |
Complete electrical and timing specifications |
| User Guide |
Architecture overview and design guidelines |
| Application Notes |
Design examples and best practices |
| Libraries |
Pre-verified IP cores and primitives |
Design Support
Technical support for legacy XC5200 family devices includes:
- Pinout information and package drawings
- Reference designs and example projects
- Migration guides to newer FPGA families
- Programming file format documentation
Power Management and Thermal Considerations
Electrical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Typical |
Maximum |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) |
5.0V |
5.25V |
| Core Current |
Varies by design |
Device dependent |
| I/O Current |
Varies by load |
24mA per pin |
| Power Dissipation |
Design dependent |
Package limited |
Thermal Management
The industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) of the XC5204-6PQ100I requires proper thermal design:
- Adequate PCB copper for heat spreading
- Thermal vias beneath package
- Airflow considerations for enclosed systems
- Junction temperature monitoring
Legacy Support and Long-Term Availability
Product Lifecycle Status
The XC5204-6PQ100I has reached end-of-life status, with the following implications:
- Manufacturing: Discontinued by Xilinx/AMD
- Support: Limited to existing documentation
- Availability: Through distribution stock only
- Recommended Action: Design migration to current families
Maintenance and Replacement Strategy
For systems currently using XC5204-6PQ100I:
- Short-term: Secure adequate inventory for expected lifecycle
- Medium-term: Evaluate pin-compatible alternatives
- Long-term: Plan migration to modern FPGA architecture
- Documentation: Maintain complete design files and programming information
Conclusion
The XC5204-6PQ100I represents proven FPGA technology suitable for legacy system maintenance and low-complexity industrial applications. While this device offers reliable performance in its intended application space, designers of new systems should consider modern FPGA alternatives that provide superior performance, lower power consumption, and long-term availability.
For existing deployments, the XC5204-6PQ100I continues to serve as a dependable programmable logic solution, backed by comprehensive documentation and a well-established design ecosystem. Understanding its specifications, limitations, and available support resources ensures successful integration and maintenance of systems utilizing this industrial-grade FPGA.
