The XC5204-6TQ144I is a powerful field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from AMD Xilinx’s XC5200 Family, designed for cost-effective programmable logic solutions. This industrial-grade FPGA delivers exceptional performance with 6,000 gates and 480 logic cells, making it ideal for embedded systems, industrial automation, and communication equipment.
What is the XC5204-6TQ144I FPGA?
The XC5204-6TQ144I represents AMD Xilinx’s commitment to delivering reliable, low-cost FPGA solutions. As part of the legacy XC5200 series, this component combines SRAM-based reprogrammable architecture with robust features for flexible design implementation. The “I” suffix indicates industrial temperature range (-40°C to +100°C), making it suitable for harsh operating environments.
Key Features of XC5204-6TQ144I
- 6,000 logic gates for complex digital circuit implementation
- 480 configurable logic cells with VersaBlock architecture
- 117 user I/O pins for extensive connectivity
- 83 MHz maximum clock frequency for reliable operation
- 5V core voltage for compatibility with legacy systems
- 144-pin TQFP package (20mm x 20mm footprint)
- 0.5µm CMOS process technology with three-layer metal
- Industrial temperature range: -40°C to +100°C
Technical Specifications
XC5204-6TQ144I Electrical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC5204-6TQ144I |
| Manufacturer |
AMD Xilinx (formerly Xilinx Inc.) |
| Product Family |
XC5200 FPGA Series |
| Logic Gates |
6,000 gates |
| Logic Cells |
480 cells (120 CLBs) |
| Maximum Frequency |
83 MHz |
| Core Voltage |
5V ±5% |
| Technology Node |
0.5µm three-layer metal CMOS |
| Speed Grade |
-6 (6ns typical delay) |
Package and Pinout Details
| Package Specification |
Value |
| Package Type |
TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
144 pins |
| Package Dimensions |
20mm x 20mm x 1.6mm |
| Lead Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Total I/O Pins |
117 user I/O |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount (SMT) |
| Terminal Finish |
Tin/Lead (Sn85Pb15) |
Performance Specifications
| Feature |
Specification |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°C to +100°C (Industrial) |
| Storage Temperature |
-65°C to +150°C |
| Maximum Propagation Delay |
5.6ns |
| Configuration Time |
< 100ms |
| Power Consumption |
~350mW typical (operating) |
| Standby Current |
< 10mA |
XC5204-6TQ144I Architecture and Design Features
VersaBlock Logic Module
The XC5204-6TQ144I utilizes <a href=”https://pcbsync.com/xilinx-fpga/”>Xilinx FPGA</a> VersaBlock architecture, which provides:
- Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs): 120 CLBs arranged in an efficient array
- Function Generators: Dual 4-input LUTs per CLB for complex combinational logic
- Flip-Flops: Dedicated registers with zero hold time for simplified timing
- Fast Carry Logic: Optimized arithmetic operations for DSP applications
VersaRing I/O Interface
The VersaRing I/O system offers exceptional flexibility:
- High logic-to-I/O ratio maximizes design efficiency
- Programmable output slew-rate control reduces electromagnetic interference
- Support for multiple I/O standards (TTL, CMOS, LVTTL)
- Bidirectional I/O with independent input and output buffers
- 24mA drive capability on output pins
Interconnect Resources
| Interconnect Type |
Description |
| General Purpose |
Flexible routing for standard connections |
| Long Lines |
High-speed connections spanning device length |
| Direct Connect |
Ultra-fast CLB-to-CLB routing |
| Clock Distribution |
Dedicated low-skew global clock networks (4 networks) |
Applications and Use Cases
Industrial Automation
The XC5204-6TQ144I excels in industrial control applications:
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC): Custom logic implementation
- Motor Control Systems: PWM generation and encoder interfaces
- Process Monitoring: Real-time data acquisition and processing
- Factory Automation: Communication protocol converters
Communication Equipment
Ideal for networking and telecommunication systems:
- Protocol Bridges: UART, SPI, I2C interface conversion
- Data Multiplexing: Channel aggregation and distribution
- Signal Processing: Digital filtering and modulation
- Legacy System Interfacing: 5V logic level compatibility
Embedded Systems
Perfect for custom embedded solutions:
- Custom Peripheral Controllers: Unique interface requirements
- Co-processor Functions: Hardware acceleration for microcontrollers
- Sensor Interface Modules: Multi-sensor data fusion
- Control State Machines: Complex sequential logic
Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS)
Specialized applications include:
- Display Controllers: Custom LCD/LED matrix control
- Barcode Scanner Interfaces: High-speed data decoding
- Payment Terminal Logic: Security and transaction processing
- Peripheral Management: Multiple device coordination
Design and Development Support
Compatible Design Tools
The XC5204-6TQ144I is supported by comprehensive development tools:
| Tool Category |
Supported Options |
| Design Entry |
ABEL, Schematic Capture, VHDL, Verilog HDL |
| Synthesis |
Xilinx ISE, third-party synthesis tools |
| Simulation |
ModelSim, ISE Simulator |
| Place & Route |
Xilinx ISE Place and Route Engine |
| Programming |
Xilinx Platform Cable USB, JTAG programmers |
Development Workflow
- Design Entry: Create your logic using HDL or schematic capture
- Synthesis: Convert design to netlist using Xilinx ISE
- Implementation: Map, place, and route the design
- Timing Analysis: Verify timing constraints and performance
- Bitstream Generation: Create configuration file
- Programming: Load bitstream via JTAG interface
XC5204-6TQ144I vs. Similar FPGAs
Comparison with XC5200 Family Variants
| Model |
Gates |
Cells |
I/O Pins |
Package |
Speed Grade |
| XC5204-6TQ144I |
6K |
480 |
117 |
144-TQFP |
-6 (Industrial) |
| XC5204-6TQ144C |
6K |
480 |
117 |
144-TQFP |
-6 (Commercial) |
| XC5202-6PQ100I |
3K |
196 |
77 |
100-PQFP |
-6 (Industrial) |
| XC5210-6TQ144I |
10K |
784 |
117 |
144-TQFP |
-6 (Industrial) |
Industrial vs. Commercial Temperature Grades
The XC5204-6TQ144I (Industrial) offers extended temperature range compared to XC5204-6TQ144C (Commercial):
- Industrial (-I): -40°C to +100°C — Automotive, outdoor, industrial
- Commercial (-C): 0°C to +85°C — Consumer electronics, office equipment
Programming and Configuration
Configuration Methods
The XC5204-6TQ144I supports multiple configuration options:
- Master Serial Mode: FPGA controls configuration PROM
- Slave Serial Mode: External controller provides data
- Boundary-Scan (JTAG): IEEE 1149.1 compliant interface
- SelectMAP: 8-bit parallel configuration for fast loading
Configuration Memory Requirements
- Bitstream Size: Approximately 45,000 bits
- Configuration Time: < 100ms at 1 MHz clock
- PROM Type: Serial configuration PROM (XC17S05/10)
Quality and Reliability
Quality Standards
| Standard |
Compliance Status |
| RoHS Compliance |
Lead-free versions available (non-RoHS marked parts contain lead) |
| REACH Compliance |
Not compliant (legacy product) |
| Moisture Sensitivity |
Level 3 (168 hours at 30°C/60% RH) |
| ESD Rating |
Class 1C (≥500V HBM) |
Reliability Metrics
- MTBF: > 1,000,000 hours at 55°C junction temperature
- Lifecycle Status: Obsolete/Not Recommended for New Designs
- Replacement Recommendations: Spartan-3E, Spartan-6 families
Purchasing Information
Availability and Sourcing
While the XC5204-6TQ144I is considered obsolete by AMD Xilinx, it remains available through:
- Authorized distributors (limited stock)
- Electronic component brokers
- Surplus and obsolescence specialists
- Aftermarket suppliers
Packaging Options
- Tray: Standard packaging for production quantities
- Tube: Alternative packaging for smaller orders
- Cut Tape: Individual units for prototyping
Minimum Order Quantities
Typical MOQ varies by supplier:
- Authorized distributors: 1-90 pieces
- Brokers: Often accept smaller quantities
- Volume pricing available for 120+ units
Installation and PCB Design Guidelines
PCB Layout Recommendations
- Power Distribution: Use dedicated power planes for VCC and GND
- Decoupling: 0.1µF capacitor near each power pin pair
- Signal Integrity: Match trace impedance for high-speed signals
- Thermal Management: Adequate copper pour for heat dissipation
Soldering Profile
| Phase |
Temperature |
Duration |
| Preheat |
150-180°C |
60-120 seconds |
| Soak |
180-200°C |
60-90 seconds |
| Reflow Peak |
240-250°C |
10-20 seconds |
| Cooling |
< 6°C/second |
– |
Pin Assignment Guidelines
- Assign critical signals to pins with best timing characteristics
- Use adjacent pins for differential pairs
- Reserve dedicated clock pins for high-frequency clocks
- Consider I/O banking for voltage compatibility
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Configuration Problems
| Issue |
Possible Cause |
Solution |
| Won’t Configure |
Incorrect bitstream |
Verify target device matches design |
| Intermittent Config |
Power supply noise |
Add decoupling capacitors |
| JTAG Not Detected |
Connection issue |
Check cable, verify TDI/TDO connections |
| Configuration Timeout |
Clock too fast |
Reduce configuration clock frequency |
Design Performance Issues
- Timing Failures: Adjust constraints, optimize critical paths
- I/O Drive Issues: Check voltage levels, load capacitance
- Clock Distribution: Use global buffers for high-fanout clocks
- Resource Utilization: Optimize logic to fit within device capacity
Support and Documentation
Essential Resources
- XC5200 Family Datasheet: Complete electrical and timing specifications
- XC5200 User Guide: Architecture and design methodology
- Application Notes: Design best practices and tutorials
- Reference Designs: Example projects and IP cores
Technical Support
For XC5204-6TQ144I legacy support:
- AMD Xilinx archived documentation portal
- Community forums and user groups
- Third-party FPGA design consultants
- Authorized training partners
Conclusion
The XC5204-6TQ144I FPGA delivers reliable performance for industrial applications requiring programmable logic solutions. While classified as obsolete for new designs, this component continues to serve existing systems in industrial automation, communication equipment, and embedded control applications. Its industrial temperature rating, 5V compatibility, and proven architecture make it valuable for legacy system maintenance and long-lifecycle applications.
For new designs, consider migrating to current-generation <a href=”https://pcbsync.com/xilinx-fpga/”>Xilinx FPGA</a> families such as Spartan-7 or Artix-7, which offer superior performance, lower power consumption, and modern I/O standards while maintaining the programmability advantages that made the XC5200 series successful.
