Overview of XC5215-6HQ208I0359 Field-Programmable Gate Array
The XC5215-6HQ208I0359 is a high-performance FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) from the renowned Xilinx FPGA XC5200 Family, manufactured by Rochester Electronics LLC. This industrial-grade programmable logic device delivers exceptional flexibility and reliability for embedded systems, telecommunications, industrial automation, and legacy system replacements.
Designed with advanced 0.5µm three-layer metal CMOS process technology, the XC5215-6HQ208I0359 offers 23,000 usable gates with 1,936 configurable logic cells, making it ideal for complex digital designs requiring reconfigurable architecture.
Key Features and Benefits
Core Technical Capabilities
The XC5215-6HQ208I0359 FPGA incorporates several industry-leading features that set it apart in the programmable logic market:
- High Logic Density: 1,936 logic cells providing 23,000 usable gates for complex circuit implementation
- Superior Performance: 83MHz maximum operating frequency for time-critical applications
- Industrial Temperature Range: -40°C to +100°C operation ensures reliability in harsh environments
- Advanced I/O Configuration: 164 user I/O pins with VersaRing I/O interface technology
- SRAM-Based Architecture: Reprogrammable design allowing unlimited configuration cycles
- Low Power Consumption: Optimized 5V operation with efficient power management
Advanced Architecture
The XC5215-6HQ208I0359 employs Xilinx’s innovative VersaBlock™ logic module architecture, providing designers with unprecedented flexibility in implementing custom logic functions. The device’s hierarchical interconnect structure ensures optimal routing efficiency and reduced propagation delays.
Technical Specifications Table
| Specification |
Value |
| Part Number |
XC5215-6HQ208I0359 |
| Manufacturer |
Rochester Electronics LLC / Xilinx |
| Product Family |
XC5200 FPGA Family |
| Logic Cells |
1,936 cells |
| Usable Gates |
23,000 gates |
| Maximum Frequency |
83MHz |
| Process Technology |
0.5µm 3-layer metal CMOS |
| Supply Voltage |
5V |
| Package Type |
208-Pin HSPQFP (Heat Sink Power Quad Flat Pack) |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°C to +100°C (Industrial) |
| Number of I/O Pins |
164 user I/O |
| Configuration |
SRAM-based (Reprogrammable) |
Package Information & Pinout
| Package Detail |
Specification |
| Package Type |
HSPQFP (Heat Sink Power Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
208 pins |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
| Pin Pitch |
Standard HSPQFP spacing |
| Thermal Enhancement |
Integrated heat sink pad |
| Total I/O Available |
Up to 164 user-configurable I/O |
| Package Dimensions |
Industry-standard 208-pin HSPQFP footprint |
Performance Characteristics
Speed Grade and Timing
The “-6” speed grade designation in the XC5215-6HQ208I0359 part number indicates optimized performance characteristics:
- Clock-to-Output Delay: Minimized for high-speed synchronous designs
- Setup and Hold Times: Zero hold time for input registers simplifying timing closure
- Propagation Delay: Optimized routing architecture reduces signal delays
- Maximum Toggle Frequency: 83MHz system clock support
I/O Interface Features
| I/O Feature |
Description |
| VersaRing Technology |
High logic-cell-to-I/O ratio maximizing design efficiency |
| Programmable Slew Rate |
User-controlled output slew rate for noise reduction |
| Input Register Hold Time |
Zero hold time requirement simplifies system timing |
| I/O Standards |
Multiple voltage standards supported (5V, 3.3V compatible) |
| Output Drive Strength |
Programmable drive strength for signal integrity |
Application Areas
Primary Use Cases
The XC5215-6HQ208I0359 FPGA excels in diverse applications:
- Industrial Control Systems: PLC replacements, motor control, process automation
- Telecommunications Equipment: Digital signal processing, protocol conversion
- Legacy System Upgrades: Obsolete component replacement in existing designs
- Embedded Computing: Custom processor interfaces, peripheral controllers
- Test & Measurement: High-speed data acquisition, signal generation
- Military & Aerospace: Radiation-tolerant designs, mission-critical systems
Industry Sectors
- Manufacturing and Industrial Automation
- Medical Device Engineering
- Aerospace and Defense Systems
- Telecommunications Infrastructure
- Automotive Electronics
- Research and Development
Design Tools and Software Support
Compatible Development Environments
The XC5215-6HQ208I0359 is fully supported by industry-standard FPGA design tools:
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite: Complete design entry through implementation
- ABEL: Hardware description language support
- Schematic Capture: Graphical design entry methods
- VHDL Synthesis: IEEE-standard hardware description language
- Verilog HDL: Alternative HDL for digital design
- XACTstep: Timing analysis and optimization
- XACT-Performance: Performance-driven placement and routing
Programming and Configuration
| Configuration Mode |
Description |
| Serial Mode |
Standard configuration via serial PROM |
| Master Mode |
FPGA controls configuration process |
| Slave Mode |
External controller manages configuration |
| Express Mode |
High-speed configuration option |
| Daisy Chain |
Multiple FPGA configuration support |
| JTAG Boundary Scan |
IEEE 1149.1 compliant testing and programming |
Comparison with Related Parts
XC5200 Family Variants
| Part Number |
Gates |
Logic Cells |
I/O Pins |
Package |
| XC5215-6HQ208I0359 |
23,000 |
1,936 |
164 |
208-HSPQFP |
| XC5210-6TQ144I |
16,000 |
1,296 |
112 |
144-TQFP |
| XC5206-6PQ160C |
9,000 |
784 |
128 |
160-PQFP |
| XC5204-6VQ100C |
6,000 |
528 |
80 |
100-VQFP |
Availability and Sourcing
Manufacturer Information
- Current Manufacturer: Rochester Electronics LLC
- Original Manufacturer: Xilinx (now AMD)
- Product Status: Available for legacy support and replacement
- Alternative Sources: Authorized distributors worldwide
Quality and Reliability
The XC5215-6HQ208I0359 meets stringent quality standards:
- RoHS compliant manufacturing
- Extended temperature range testing
- Burn-in and quality screening
- Full traceability and authenticity certification
- ESD protection integrated
Installation and Implementation Guidelines
PCB Design Considerations
When designing with the XC5215-6HQ208I0359:
- Power Distribution: Implement proper decoupling capacitors (0.1µF and 10µF recommended)
- Thermal Management: Ensure adequate airflow and heat sinking for HSPQFP package
- Signal Integrity: Maintain controlled impedance for high-speed signals
- Configuration Interface: Reserve pins for programming and debugging
- Clock Distribution: Use dedicated clock routing for optimal performance
Power Requirements
| Power Rail |
Typical Current |
Recommended Supply |
| VCC Core |
200-500mA |
5V ±5% |
| VCCIO |
100-300mA |
5V or 3.3V |
| VCCO |
50-200mA |
User-defined |
Advantages of XC5215-6HQ208I0359
Why Choose This FPGA?
- Proven Technology: Mature, well-documented architecture with extensive design resources
- Cost-Effective: Excellent price-to-performance ratio for mid-range applications
- Wide Availability: Rochester Electronics ensures long-term component availability
- Design Flexibility: Unlimited reprogramming enables iterative development
- Strong Ecosystem: Comprehensive tool support and community knowledge base
- Industrial Reliability: Extended temperature range and robust construction
Competitive Advantages
- Superior logic density compared to earlier FPGA families
- Lower power consumption than equivalent discrete logic implementations
- Faster time-to-market than ASIC development
- Field upgradeable functionality
- Single-chip solution reducing board complexity
Environmental and Compliance Standards
The XC5215-6HQ208I0359 complies with international standards:
- RoHS: Lead-free and environmentally compliant
- REACH: European chemical regulation compliance
- ISO 9001: Quality management system certified manufacturing
- ESD Sensitivity: Class 1 handling procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between XC5215-6HQ208I0359 and XC5215-6HQ208C?
The “I0359” suffix typically indicates a specific date code, lot number, or Rochester Electronics tracking code for component traceability. The core functionality remains identical to standard XC5215-6HQ208 variants.
Is the XC5215-6HQ208I0359 suitable for new designs?
While the XC5200 family is considered mature technology, it remains excellent for legacy equipment replacement, cost-sensitive applications, and designs requiring proven reliability. For cutting-edge performance, consider newer Xilinx FPGA families.
What programming cables are compatible?
Standard Xilinx programming cables including Platform Cable USB, JTAG programmers, and compatible third-party tools work with the XC5215-6HQ208I0359.
Can I use modern design tools?
While ISE Design Suite is the recommended tool, the device is also supported through compatibility modes in some modern FPGA development environments.
Conclusion
The XC5215-6HQ208I0359 represents a robust, cost-effective FPGA solution for industrial applications, legacy system maintenance, and mid-range digital designs. Its combination of 23,000 gates, 164 I/O pins, and industrial temperature range makes it ideal for demanding embedded applications.
Whether you’re replacing obsolete components, developing new industrial control systems, or implementing custom digital logic, the XC5215-6HQ208I0359 delivers proven performance backed by comprehensive design tool support and worldwide availability through Rochester Electronics.
For detailed technical specifications, programming guides, and application notes, consult the official Xilinx XC5200 family documentation or contact authorized distributors for availability and pricing information.
