Product Overview: XC5206-5PQ208C Field Programmable Gate Array
The XC5206-5PQ208C is a professional-grade Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) manufactured by AMD Xilinx, designed for demanding industrial and embedded applications. This PQFP-208 packaged FPGA delivers 148 I/O pins in a compact form factor, making it ideal for space-constrained designs requiring robust programmable logic capabilities.
As part of the legacy XC5200 family, the XC5206-5PQ208C represents proven Xilinx FPGA technology that continues to serve critical applications in automotive infotainment, communications equipment, industrial building automation, and wired networking systems.
Key Specifications of XC5206-5PQ208C
Technical Parameters
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
AMD Xilinx (formerly Xilinx Inc.) |
| Part Number |
XC5206-5PQ208C |
| Product Family |
XC5200 FPGA Series |
| Package Type |
208-Pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Package) |
| I/O Count |
148 User I/O Pins |
| Speed Grade |
-5 (Standard Performance) |
| Technology Node |
0.5µm CMOS Process |
| Logic Cells |
Approximately 6,000 gates equivalent |
| Operating Voltage |
5V Core Logic |
| Package Dimensions |
28mm x 28mm (Nominal) |
Package Information
| Package Details |
Specifications |
| Package Code |
QFP/PQFP208 |
| Pin Pitch |
0.5mm (Standard PQFP) |
| Total Pin Count |
208 Pins |
| Form Factor |
Square Body, Low Profile |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) |
| Package Height |
Low profile for compact designs |
XC5206-5PQ208C Features and Architecture
Core FPGA Capabilities
The XC5206-5PQ208C delivers essential programmable logic features:
- VersaBlock Logic Modules: Flexible logic architecture optimized for register-rich designs
- SRAM-Based Configuration: Fully reprogrammable architecture supporting unlimited design iterations
- VersaRing I/O Interface: Advanced I/O architecture with flexible voltage standards support
- Hierarchical Interconnect: Multi-level routing resources for efficient signal distribution
- Embedded Memory: Distributed RAM resources for data buffering and storage
Design Flexibility
This FPGA supports multiple design entry methods:
- VHDL and Verilog HDL synthesis
- Schematic capture workflows
- ABEL-based design entry
- Integration with third-party synthesis tools
Applications of XC5206-5PQ208C FPGA
Primary Application Areas
| Industry Sector |
Typical Applications |
| Automotive |
Infotainment systems, cluster displays, vehicle control units |
| Industrial Automation |
Building automation controllers, process control, HMI interfaces |
| Communications |
Protocol conversion, data routing, interface bridging |
| Networking |
Wired networking equipment, Ethernet switching, gateway devices |
| Test & Measurement |
Instrumentation, signal processing, data acquisition |
Legacy System Support
The XC5206-5PQ208C is particularly valuable for maintaining and upgrading legacy systems where original FPGA components are required for:
- Equipment repair and refurbishment
- Long-term product lifecycle support
- Reverse engineering and modernization projects
- Defense and aerospace applications requiring qualified components
XC5206-5PQ208C vs. Modern FPGA Alternatives
Comparison with Current Generation FPGAs
| Feature |
XC5206-5PQ208C (Legacy) |
Modern Spartan-7 |
Modern Artix-7 |
| Technology |
0.5µm CMOS |
28nm CMOS |
28nm CMOS |
| Core Voltage |
5V |
1.0V |
1.0V |
| Logic Cells |
~6K gates |
52K logic cells |
215K logic cells |
| I/O Standards |
Legacy 5V/3.3V |
50+ modern standards |
50+ modern standards |
| DSP Blocks |
None |
Up to 160 |
Up to 740 |
| Block RAM |
Distributed only |
Up to 4.2 Mb |
Up to 13 Mb |
| Power Efficiency |
Standard |
High efficiency |
High efficiency |
When to Choose XC5206-5PQ208C
Despite being a legacy product, the XC5206-5PQ208C remains the optimal choice for:
- Form-fit-function replacement in existing designs
- Qualified production lines requiring specific part numbers
- Long-term availability through authorized distributors
- 5V system compatibility without level translation
Compliance and Environmental Standards
Regulatory Information
| Standard |
Status |
| RoHS Compliance |
No (Contains lead – legacy product) |
| Lead-Free |
No (PBFREE Code: No) |
| REACH |
Status Unknown (Legacy component) |
| Product Lifecycle |
Obsolete (Available through distributors) |
Important Note: As a legacy component, the XC5206-5PQ208C may not meet current RoHS requirements. Consult with your regulatory compliance team for exemptions applicable to repair, maintenance, and legacy system support.
Design Resources and Support
Development Tools
The XC5206-5PQ208C is supported by:
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite (Legacy tool chain)
- Third-party synthesis tools (Synopsys, Mentor Graphics)
- JTAG programming interfaces for configuration
- EDA/CAD footprint libraries for PCB design
Technical Documentation
Available resources include:
- XC5200 Family Datasheet (Version 4.01)
- Application notes for power supply design
- PCB layout guidelines for PQFP-208 package
- Pin assignment tables and I/O planning guides
Procurement and Availability
Sourcing XC5206-5PQ208C Components
While classified as obsolete by the original manufacturer, the XC5206-5PQ208C remains available through:
- Authorized distributors maintaining stock for legacy support
- Franchised component suppliers with tested inventory
- Specialty FPGA suppliers focusing on hard-to-find components
- Qualified aftermarket vendors providing genuine parts
Quality Assurance
When sourcing XC5206-5PQ208C units:
- Verify authenticity through authorized channels
- Request manufacturer date codes for shelf-life assessment
- Confirm moisture sensitivity level (MSL) handling
- Obtain certificate of conformance (C of C) documentation
Installation and Handling Guidelines
PCB Design Considerations
| Design Aspect |
Recommendations |
| Footprint |
Follow IPC-7351 standards for PQFP-208 |
| Thermal Relief |
Provide adequate copper for heat dissipation |
| Decoupling |
Place 0.1µF capacitors at each power pin |
| Ground Plane |
Use continuous ground plane for signal integrity |
| I/O Routing |
Minimize trace lengths for high-speed signals |
Soldering and Assembly
- Reflow Profile: Follow JEDEC J-STD-020 for lead-containing packages
- Hand Soldering: Use temperature-controlled iron (max 350°C)
- Moisture Sensitivity: Handle as MSL 3 device (bake if needed)
- ESD Protection: Use proper grounding and handling procedures
Power Supply Design for XC5206-5PQ208C
Voltage Requirements
| Power Rail |
Voltage |
Typical Current |
| VCCINT (Core) |
5.0V ±5% |
200-400mA (design dependent) |
| VCCO (I/O) |
3.3V or 5.0V |
Varies by I/O usage |
Recommended Power Sequence
- Apply VCCINT before or simultaneously with VCCO
- Provide adequate bulk capacitance (10-100µF per rail)
- Include high-frequency decoupling (0.1µF ceramic)
- Monitor power-good signals before configuration
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the XC5206-5PQ208C still in production?
The XC5206-5PQ208C is no longer in active production by AMD Xilinx. However, it remains available through authorized distributors and specialty component suppliers for legacy system support and replacement applications.
Q2: What are suitable replacement options for new designs?
For new designs, consider modern alternatives such as:
- Spartan-7 family for cost-sensitive applications
- Artix-7 family for higher performance requirements
- Contact technical support for migration guidance and pin-compatible alternatives
Q3: Can I use modern programming tools with XC5206-5PQ208C?
The XC5206-5PQ208C requires the legacy Xilinx ISE Design Suite. Modern Vivado Design Suite does not support the XC5200 family. ISE versions 14.7 and earlier provide full support.
Q4: What temperature range does the XC5206-5PQ208C support?
The standard “C” grade offers commercial temperature operation (0°C to +70°C). Industrial-grade versions may have been available; consult distributor stock for specific temperature grades.
Q5: How do I verify authenticity of XC5206-5PQ208C components?
Verify authenticity by:
- Purchasing from authorized Xilinx distributors
- Checking manufacturer markings and date codes
- Requesting certificates of conformance
- Avoiding gray market or unknown sources
Technical Support and Resources
Getting Help with XC5206-5PQ208C
For technical assistance:
- Legacy Documentation: Access archived Xilinx documentation for XC5200 family
- Community Forums: Engage with FPGA design communities for application support
- Distributor Support: Consult with authorized distributors for availability and alternatives
- Design Services: Consider professional FPGA design services for complex migrations
Additional Learning Resources
- XC5200 Family Technical Reference Manual
- FPGA design fundamentals courses
- PCB layout best practices for QFP packages
- Signal integrity analysis for legacy FPGA systems
Conclusion: XC5206-5PQ208C for Reliable Legacy Support
The XC5206-5PQ208C FPGA continues to serve as a critical component for maintaining and supporting legacy industrial systems. While newer FPGA technologies offer superior performance and power efficiency, the XC5206-5PQ208C provides essential form-fit-function compatibility for applications requiring exact replacement parts.
Organizations managing long-lifecycle products in automotive, industrial, communications, and networking sectors benefit from the continued availability of this proven FPGA platform through authorized distribution channels.
For modern Xilinx FPGA solutions and migration support, consult with FPGA specialists to evaluate current-generation alternatives that deliver enhanced capabilities while maintaining compatibility with existing system architectures.
