Overview of XC5210-6PQG208C Field Programmable Gate Array
The XC5210-6PQG208C is a powerful field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from the renowned XC5200 family, originally manufactured by Xilinx (now AMD). This advanced programmable logic device offers exceptional flexibility and performance for a wide range of industrial, telecommunications, and embedded system applications. As part of the legacy Xilinx FPGA product line, the XC5210-6PQG208C continues to serve critical applications in existing designs and legacy system maintenance.
Key Features of XC5210-6PQG208C FPGA
The XC5210-6PQG208C FPGA delivers robust functionality through its advanced architecture:
- 16,000 equivalent gates providing substantial logic capacity
- 1,296 logic cells for complex digital design implementation
- 208-pin PQFP package (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) for reliable board-level integration
- 164 user I/O pins enabling extensive connectivity options
- 5V operating voltage for compatibility with standard logic levels
- 83 MHz maximum operating frequency for high-speed applications
- 0.5µm CMOS process technology ensuring reliable performance
- SRAM-based reprogrammable architecture allowing unlimited reconfiguration
Technical Specifications Table
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XC5210-6PQG208C |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD) / Rochester Electronics |
| Product Family |
XC5200 Series FPGA |
| Logic Gates |
16,000 gates |
| Logic Cells |
1,296 cells |
| User I/O Pins |
164 |
| Total Pin Count |
208 pins |
| Package Type |
PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Operating Voltage |
5V |
| Process Technology |
0.5µm three-layer metal CMOS |
| Maximum Frequency |
83 MHz |
| Operating Temperature |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| Programming Type |
SRAM-based (reprogrammable) |
Pin Configuration and Package Details
| Package Attribute |
Details |
| Package Style |
PQFP208 (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Pitch |
Standard QFP pitch |
| Body Size |
28mm x 28mm (typical) |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) |
| Lead Count |
208 |
| User I/O |
164 programmable I/O pins |
| RoHS Compliance |
RoHS Compliant (Lead-free) |
XC5210-6PQG208C Architecture and Design Capabilities
VersaBlock Logic Module Technology
The XC5210-6PQG208C incorporates Xilinx’s innovative VersaBlock architecture, which provides:
- Register and latch-rich design for efficient state machine implementation
- Flexible logic configuration supporting various design methodologies
- Optimized interconnect hierarchy reducing routing congestion
- Enhanced design flexibility for complex digital circuits
VersaRing I/O Interface
The advanced VersaRing I/O interface delivers:
- High logic cell to I/O ratio maximizing design efficiency
- Programmable output slew-rate control for signal integrity optimization
- Zero flip-flop hold time for input registers simplifying system timing
- Up to 244 I/O signals support (164 in the 208-pin package)
Application Areas for XC5210-6PQG208C
The XC5210-6PQG208C FPGA excels in diverse applications:
Industrial Control Systems
- Process control and automation
- Motor control applications
- Industrial protocol interfaces
- PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) implementations
Telecommunications Equipment
- Protocol converters and adapters
- Signal processing applications
- Data acquisition systems
- Communication interface modules
Embedded Systems
- Custom logic implementation
- Glue logic replacement
- System prototyping
- Legacy system maintenance
Consumer Electronics
- Video processing circuits
- Audio signal processing
- Display controllers
- Interface bridging
Design Support and Software Tools
Compatible Development Environments
The XC5210-6PQG208C FPGA is supported by industry-standard design tools:
| Tool Category |
Supported Options |
| Design Entry |
ABEL, Schematic Capture, VHDL, Verilog HDL |
| Synthesis Tools |
Third-party synthesis tools compatible |
| Development Suite |
Xilinx ISE Foundation/Alliance software |
| Platform Support |
Windows and Unix workstations |
| Simulation |
ModelSim, Xilinx ISE Simulator |
Design Methodology Support
- HDL synthesis workflow for modern design entry
- Schematic capture for traditional design approaches
- Mixed design entry combining HDL and schematics
- IP core integration for rapid development
Performance Characteristics
Timing Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Maximum Clock Frequency |
83 MHz |
| Input Setup Time |
Speed grade dependent |
| Clock-to-Output Delay |
Speed grade dependent |
| Propagation Delay |
Low, optimized for performance |
Power Consumption
The XC5210-6PQG208C operates efficiently with:
- 5V single supply operation simplifying power design
- CMOS technology for reduced static power consumption
- Dynamic power scaling based on utilization
- Power-efficient SRAM configuration cells
Ordering Information and Part Number Breakdown
Part Number Decoding: XC5210-6PQG208C
- XC5210: Device family and gate count (10 = 10K gates nominal)
- -6: Speed grade (6 = 83 MHz maximum frequency)
- PQG: Package type (Plastic Quad Flat Pack, Gull-wing leads)
- 208: Pin count
- C: Commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C)
Available Variants
| Part Number |
Speed Grade |
Package |
Temperature Range |
| XC5210-6PQG208C |
-6 (83 MHz) |
PQFP-208 |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| XC5210-5PQG208C |
-5 (lower speed) |
PQFP-208 |
Commercial |
| XC5210-6PQG208I |
-6 (83 MHz) |
PQFP-208 |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
Quality and Reliability Standards
Manufacturing Quality
- Automotive-grade quality (when specified)
- 100% electrical testing at final test
- JEDEC standard compliance for thermal performance
- ESD protection on all I/O pins
- Latch-up immune CMOS design
Product Lifecycle Information
Important Note: The XC5210-6PQG208C is part of the legacy XC5200 FPGA family and is not recommended for new designs. This product is primarily available for:
- Legacy system support and maintenance
- Spare parts inventory for existing equipment
- Design continuity for established products
- Repair and replacement applications
Rochester Electronics serves as an authorized manufacturer continuing production for lifecycle management.
Comparison with Modern FPGA Alternatives
| Feature |
XC5210-6PQG208C |
Modern FPGAs |
| Logic Capacity |
16K gates |
10K to 1M+ logic elements |
| Process Technology |
0.5µm |
7nm to 28nm |
| Operating Voltage |
5V |
1.0V to 3.3V |
| Power Consumption |
Higher |
Significantly lower |
| I/O Standards |
5V TTL/CMOS |
LVDS, DDR, MIPI, etc. |
| Configuration |
SRAM (volatile) |
Flash or SRAM options |
Programming and Configuration
Configuration Methods
The XC5210-6PQG208C supports multiple configuration modes:
- Master Serial mode using external PROM
- Slave Serial mode for multi-device chains
- Master Parallel mode for fast configuration
- Boundary Scan (JTAG) for programming and test
Configuration Memory
- SRAM-based configuration requiring external storage
- Unlimited reprogrammability for development flexibility
- Fast configuration times for rapid system initialization
- Bitstream security options available
Purchase Considerations for XC5210-6PQG208C
Availability and Sourcing
Given the legacy status of the XC5210-6PQG208C:
- Rochester Electronics continues authorized manufacturing
- Distributor stock available at select electronics suppliers
- Lead times may vary based on production schedules
- Minimum order quantities may apply for production runs
Pricing Factors
Pricing for XC5210-6PQG208C depends on:
- Order quantity (volume discounts available)
- Package type and speed grade
- Temperature range specification
- Distributor and region
- Market availability and demand
Current market prices typically range from $27 to $80+ per unit depending on quantity and supplier.
Technical Support Resources
Documentation Available
- XC5200 Family Datasheet (complete specifications)
- User Guide and Application Notes
- FPGA Editor documentation
- Timing analysis guidelines
- PCB layout recommendations
Design Resources
- Reference designs for common applications
- IP cores compatible with XC5200 architecture
- Training materials for design methodology
- Technical support through distributor channels
PCB Design Guidelines for XC5210-6PQG208C
Layout Recommendations
When designing PCBs with the XC5210-6PQG208C:
- Power supply decoupling: Place 0.1µF ceramic capacitors near each VCC pin
- Ground plane: Implement solid ground plane for signal integrity
- Thermal management: Ensure adequate airflow or heatsinking
- Signal routing: Follow high-speed design practices for critical signals
- Package footprint: Use manufacturer-recommended land patterns
Power Distribution Network
- Multiple VCC and GND pins require parallel connections
- Low-impedance power delivery essential for stable operation
- Bulk decoupling capacitors (10µF-100µF) near device
- Separate analog/digital grounds if mixed-signal design
Environmental and Compliance Information
| Standard |
Compliance Status |
| RoHS Directive |
Compliant (Lead-free) |
| REACH Regulation |
Compliant |
| Conflict Minerals |
Compliant |
| WEEE Directive |
Compliant |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level |
MSL 3 (typical) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the XC5210-6PQG208C suitable for new product designs?
No, the XC5210-6PQG208C is part of the legacy XC5200 family and is not recommended for new designs. Modern FPGA families offer superior performance, lower power consumption, and better features. This device should primarily be used for maintaining existing products or replacing components in legacy systems.
What is the difference between XC5210-6PQG208C and XC5210-6PQ208C?
The “G” designation in PQG typically indicates a specific package variant with gull-wing leads. Both refer to essentially the same device in a 208-pin PQFP package. Consult the manufacturer’s documentation for precise package specifications.
Can I program the XC5210-6PQG208C multiple times?
Yes, the XC5210-6PQG208C uses SRAM-based configuration technology, allowing unlimited reprogramming cycles. However, configuration data is volatile and lost when power is removed, requiring reconfiguration at each power-up.
What development tools do I need for XC5210-6PQG208C?
You’ll need Xilinx ISE Foundation or Alliance software (legacy versions), JTAG programming hardware, and appropriate design entry tools (VHDL/Verilog compiler or schematic capture software).
Conclusion: XC5210-6PQG208C for Reliable FPGA Solutions
The XC5210-6PQG208C represents proven FPGA technology from the established XC5200 family. While not recommended for new designs, this device remains valuable for legacy system support, offering 16,000 gates of programmable logic, 164 I/O pins, and robust 5V operation. Whether maintaining existing equipment or sourcing replacement components, the XC5210-6PQG208C continues to serve critical applications through authorized manufacturers like Rochester Electronics.
For new projects requiring similar functionality, consider modern Xilinx FPGA families that deliver enhanced performance, lower power consumption, and advanced features. The current AMD Xilinx portfolio offers superior alternatives with significantly improved capabilities for contemporary embedded and digital design challenges.
