Overview of XCS10XL-4TQG144C FPGA Chip
The XCS10XL-4TQG144C is a member of AMD’s (formerly Xilinx) Spartan-XL family of Field Programmable Gate Arrays, designed to deliver exceptional performance for high-volume production applications. This 144-pin TQFP package FPGA combines 10,000 system gates with 466 configurable logic cells, making it an ideal solution for ASIC replacement and cost-sensitive digital logic applications.
As part of the renowned Xilinx FPGA product line, the XCS10XL-4TQG144C offers designers a programmable alternative to traditional ASICs, eliminating initial tooling costs and reducing development cycles while maintaining competitive pricing for high-volume production.
Key Technical Specifications
Core Performance Characteristics
| Parameter |
Specification |
Details |
| Part Number |
XCS10XL-4TQG144C |
Spartan-XL Family |
| System Gates |
10,000 gates |
Logic capacity |
| Logic Cells |
466 cells |
Configurable logic blocks |
| Maximum Frequency |
217 MHz |
Internal performance |
| Supply Voltage |
3.3V |
Low power operation |
| Package Type |
144-TQFP EP |
Thin Quad Flat Pack |
| I/O Pins |
112 user I/O |
Maximum available |
| Speed Grade |
-4 |
Performance tier |
| Temperature Range |
Commercial |
0°C to +85°C |
Advanced FPGA Features
| Feature Category |
Capabilities |
| I/O Standards |
5V tolerant I/Os with 3.3V supply |
| Configuration |
In-system programmable |
| Boundary Scan |
Enhanced IEEE 1149.1/1532 JTAG support |
| Output Drive |
Selectable 12 mA or 24 mA drive strength |
| PCI Compliance |
5V and 3.3V PCI compatible |
| Power Management |
Power-down input for low-power modes |
| Configuration Modes |
Express Mode, Master Serial, Slave Serial |
Architecture and Design Capabilities
Configurable Logic Block (CLB) Structure
The XCS10XL-4TQG144C utilizes AMD’s proven CLB architecture, which includes:
- Three Look-Up Tables (LUTs) for flexible logic function generation
- Two flip-flops per CLB for registered operation
- Dedicated carry logic for high-speed arithmetic operations
- Latch capability within configurable logic blocks
- Optional MUX or 2-input function generator on outputs
- Support for Boolean functions up to nine inputs
Memory and Storage Options
The Spartan-XL FPGA offers versatile on-chip memory configurations:
- Distributed RAM within CLBs
- Dual-port RAM functionality
- Edge-triggered synchronous operation
- Flexible memory addressing schemes
Clock Distribution Network
Advanced clock management features include:
- Dedicated global clock networks for low-skew distribution
- Multiple clock domains support
- Built-in oscillator (4-10 MHz range)
- Programmable clock divider taps
- High fanout capability for control signals
Target Applications for XCS10XL-4TQG144C
Industrial and Commercial Applications
| Application Area |
Use Cases |
| Communications Equipment |
Protocol converters, interface bridges, signal processing |
| Wireless Infrastructure |
Base station controllers, radio frequency interfaces |
| Automotive Systems |
Infotainment systems, control units, sensor interfaces |
| Consumer Electronics |
Set-top boxes, gaming peripherals, display controllers |
| Industrial Control |
PLC interfaces, motor controllers, data acquisition |
| Medical Devices |
Diagnostic equipment, patient monitoring systems |
ASIC Replacement Benefits
The XCS10XL-4TQG144C excels as an ASIC replacement solution by offering:
- Zero NRE costs: Eliminate mask and tooling expenses
- Rapid prototyping: Immediate design iteration capability
- Flexible updates: In-system reprogrammability for field upgrades
- Lower risk: No commitment to fixed silicon design
- Faster time-to-market: Weeks instead of months for production
Package and Pin Configuration
144-Pin TQFP Package Details
| Package Parameter |
Specification |
| Package Type |
TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
144 pins |
| Body Size |
20mm x 20mm nominal |
| Pin Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Exposed Pad |
Yes (EP version) |
| Mounting |
Surface mount technology |
| Lead Frame |
Copper alloy with tin/lead plating |
I/O Distribution
- Total I/O Pins: 112 maximum user-configurable I/O
- Power Pins: Multiple VCC and GND for power distribution
- Configuration Pins: Dedicated JTAG and configuration interface
- Special Function: Clock inputs, global signals
Power Consumption and Thermal Management
Power Supply Requirements
The XCS10XL-4TQG144C operates on a single 3.3V supply with 5V tolerant I/Os, providing:
- Low static power consumption
- Reduced system cooling requirements
- Compatibility with mixed-voltage systems
- Power-down mode for battery-operated applications
Thermal Characteristics
- Junction temperature range: 0°C to +85°C (commercial grade)
- Thermal resistance varies by package and mounting
- Heat dissipation proportional to utilization and switching frequency
Development and Programming Support
Design Tools and Software
Compatible with industry-standard FPGA design tools:
- ISE Design Suite: Legacy support for Spartan-XL devices
- JTAG Programming: Standard IEEE 1149.1 boundary scan
- Configuration PROMs: External memory for bitstream storage
- Third-party Tools: VHDL, Verilog synthesis support
Programming Methods
Multiple configuration options available:
- JTAG Programming: Direct download via boundary scan
- Master Serial Mode: Device controls configuration sequence
- Slave Serial Mode: External controller manages configuration
- Express Mode: Accelerated configuration for faster boot times
Quality and Compliance
Manufacturing Standards
- RoHS Compliant: Lead-free manufacturing process
- Quality Grade: Commercial temperature range
- Reliability Testing: Industry-standard qualification procedures
- Traceability: Full lot tracking and documentation
Industry Certifications
The XCS10XL-4TQG144C meets requirements for:
- CE marking compliance
- PCI specification adherence (5V and 3.3V)
- JTAG/Boundary Scan IEEE 1149.1 standard
Ordering Information and Availability
Part Number Breakdown
XCS10XL-4TQG144C decoding:
- XCS: Spartan family designation
- 10: 10,000 system gates
- XL: Spartan-XL family member
- -4: Speed grade indicator
- TQ: TQFP package type
- G: Lead-free (RoHS compliant)
- 144: Pin count
- C: Commercial temperature range
Product Status
Important Note: The XCS10XL-4TQG144C is marked as “Not Recommended for New Designs” by AMD. This status indicates:
- Product is in mature/declining phase
- Suitable for legacy system maintenance
- Replacement designs should consider newer Spartan families
- Inventory available from authorized distributors
- Recommended alternatives: Spartan-6, Spartan-7, or newer architectures
Comparison with Related Products
Spartan-XL Family Alternatives
| Part Number |
Gates |
Cells |
Speed Grade |
Package Options |
| XCS05XL |
5,000 |
238 |
-3, -4, -5 |
VQ100, TQ144, CS144 |
| XCS10XL-4TQG144C |
10,000 |
466 |
-4 |
TQ144 (this device) |
| XCS20XL |
20,000 |
950 |
-3, -4, -5 |
TQ144, PQ208, BG256 |
| XCS30XL |
30,000 |
1,368 |
-3, -4 |
PQ240, BG352 |
| XCS40XL |
40,000 |
1,862 |
-3, -4 |
BG352, BG432 |
Modern FPGA Recommendations
For new designs requiring similar logic capacity, consider:
- Spartan-7 Series: Modern 28nm architecture with enhanced features
- Artix-7 Family: Higher performance with DSP blocks and block RAM
- Spartan UltraScale+: Latest technology with advanced I/O and security
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes the XCS10XL-4TQG144C suitable for ASIC replacement?
The XCS10XL-4TQG144C offers a compelling ASIC alternative through its combination of competitive pricing at production volumes, zero non-recurring engineering costs, rapid development cycles, and in-system reprogrammability. This flexibility allows designers to implement complex digital logic without the commitment and expense of custom ASIC development.
Can the XCS10XL-4TQG144C interface with 5V logic systems?
Yes, the XCS10XL-4TQG144C features 5V tolerant I/O pins while operating from a 3.3V core supply. This allows seamless integration with legacy 5V systems and mixed-voltage designs, making it ideal for interfacing between different logic families.
What development tools are required for XCS10XL-4TQG144C programming?
The device is supported by Xilinx ISE Design Suite for legacy designs. Programming can be accomplished through standard JTAG interfaces, configuration PROMs, or serial configuration modes. Standard HDL languages (VHDL, Verilog) are fully supported for design entry.
Is the XCS10XL-4TQG144C still available for purchase?
Yes, the XCS10XL-4TQG144C remains available through authorized distributors and electronic component suppliers. However, it is marked as “Not Recommended for New Designs,” indicating that designers should evaluate newer FPGA families for new projects while existing designs can continue using this device.
What are the power requirements for the XCS10XL-4TQG144C?
The device operates from a single 3.3V power supply, with current consumption depending on design complexity, clock frequency, and I/O activity. The low-voltage operation contributes to reduced power consumption compared to older 5V FPGA generations.
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation Available
- Datasheet: Complete electrical and timing specifications
- User Guide: Detailed architecture and design guidance
- Application Notes: Design tips and best practices
- BSDL Files: Boundary scan description for test and programming
- PCB Footprints: CAD symbols and land patterns
Distributor Network
The XCS10XL-4TQG144C is available through:
- Authorized AMD/Xilinx distributors worldwide
- Major electronic component suppliers
- Specialty FPGA and semiconductor vendors
- Online marketplaces for electronic components
Conclusion: XCS10XL-4TQG144C Value Proposition
The XCS10XL-4TQG144C Spartan-XL FPGA represents a mature, reliable solution for digital logic implementation in high-volume production environments. With 10,000 gates, 466 logic cells, and operation at 217 MHz, this device delivers solid performance for a wide range of applications from communications infrastructure to industrial control systems.
While designated as not recommended for new designs, the XCS10XL-4TQG144C continues to serve as a proven solution for legacy system maintenance, production continuity, and applications where its feature set and proven track record provide optimal value. The combination of low-voltage operation, 5V tolerant I/O, and flexible configuration options makes it a versatile choice for mixed-signal and multi-voltage system designs.
For engineers maintaining existing systems or seeking cost-effective programmable logic solutions with established reliability, the XCS10XL-4TQG144C delivers the performance and flexibility needed while avoiding the complexity and cost of modern, feature-rich FPGA families. Its position within the broader Xilinx FPGA portfolio ensures access to extensive documentation, development tools, and technical support resources.
