Overview of the XCS20-3VQ100C FPGA
The XCS20-3VQ100C is a high-performance Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from AMD’s renowned Spartan family, designed to deliver exceptional versatility for embedded applications. This programmable logic device offers 20,000 system gates with 950 logic cells, making it an ideal solution for ASIC replacement in high-volume production environments. Engineers and designers seeking reliable, cost-effective programmable logic will find the XCS20-3VQ100C perfectly suited for industrial controls, telecommunications, and consumer electronics applications.
As part of the legendary Spartan and Spartan-XL series, this FPGA combines powerful processing capabilities with flexible configuration options in a compact 100-pin TQFP package. The device operates at 125MHz and supports 5V logic levels, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of existing systems.
Key Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Part Number |
XCS20-3VQ100C |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (formerly Xilinx Inc.) |
| Product Family |
Spartan and Spartan-XL FPGA |
| System Gates |
20,000 gates |
| Logic Cells |
950 cells |
| Maximum Frequency |
125 MHz |
| Operating Voltage |
5V |
| Package Type |
100-Pin TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| I/O Pins |
77 user I/O |
| On-chip RAM |
12,800 bits SelectRAM™ |
| Speed Grade |
-3 (commercial temperature) |
Advanced Features and Capabilities
Programmable Logic Architecture
The XCS20-3VQ100C incorporates advanced FPGA architecture that enables designers to implement complex digital logic functions with maximum flexibility. With 950 configurable logic cells, this device provides ample resources for:
- Digital signal processing applications
- Custom interface protocols
- State machine implementations
- Complex control logic
- Data path operations
Memory Integration
One of the standout features of this Xilinx FPGA is its integrated 12,800-bit SelectRAM™ memory, which eliminates the need for external memory components in many applications. This on-chip memory can be configured as:
- Dual-port RAM
- Single-port RAM
- FIFO buffers
- ROM for lookup tables
System-Level Features
| Feature |
Benefit |
| PCI Compliance |
Direct integration with PCI bus systems without additional glue logic |
| Readback Capability |
Full program verification and internal node observability for debugging |
| Dedicated Carry Logic |
High-speed arithmetic operations with minimal routing delay |
| 3-State Bus Support |
Efficient internal bus implementations |
| Eight Global Networks |
Low-skew clock distribution for synchronized designs |
| IEEE 1149.1 JTAG |
Boundary-scan support for programming and testing |
Performance Characteristics
Speed and Timing
The XCS20-3VQ100C speed grade -3 designation indicates optimized performance for commercial applications. Key timing characteristics include:
- Maximum operating frequency: 125 MHz
- Fast carry chain propagation: Dedicated routing for arithmetic functions
- Low-skew clock distribution: Eight global clock networks ensure minimal timing variations
- Predictable routing delays: Architecture designed for consistent performance
Power Consumption Profile
Operating at 5V, the XCS20-3VQ100C maintains power efficiency while delivering robust performance:
- Static power consumption minimal in standby mode
- Dynamic power scales with clock frequency and logic utilization
- Compatible with standard 5V power supplies
- No special voltage regulators required
Pin Configuration and Package Details
100-Pin TQFP Package Advantages
| Package Feature |
Specification |
| Package Type |
TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Pack) |
| Total Pins |
100 |
| User I/O |
77 pins |
| Pin Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Board Space |
Compact footprint for space-constrained designs |
| Thermal Performance |
Efficient heat dissipation |
The TQFP package offers excellent balance between pin count, board space, and manufacturing ease. The 100-pin configuration provides sufficient I/O for most embedded applications while maintaining a manageable PCB footprint.
Pin Functionality Distribution
- Power pins: Multiple VCC and GND for stable power distribution
- Configuration pins: JTAG interface for programming
- I/O pins: 77 user-programmable I/O with configurable voltage levels
- Clock pins: Dedicated inputs for global clock networks
- Special function pins: Programming mode, reset, and configuration control
Application Areas and Use Cases
Industrial Automation
The XCS20-3VQ100C excels in industrial control applications:
- Motor control systems
- Sensor interface aggregation
- Custom communication protocols
- Real-time process monitoring
- Safety-critical logic implementations
Communications Infrastructure
Telecommunications equipment benefits from the FPGA’s flexibility:
- Protocol converters
- Channel coding/decoding
- Frame synchronization
- Custom packet processing
- Interface bridging
Consumer Electronics
Consumer products leverage the device’s cost-effectiveness:
- Set-top box controllers
- Gaming peripherals
- Audio/video processing
- Display controllers
- Smart appliance logic
Embedded Systems Development
Design engineers appreciate the XCS20-3VQ100C for:
- Rapid prototyping
- ASIC verification
- Custom interface development
- Algorithm implementation
- System integration testing
Development and Programming Support
Design Tools Compatibility
The XCS20-3VQ100C is fully supported by industry-standard development tools:
| Tool |
Purpose |
| Xilinx ISE Classics |
Complete design suite with synthesis, implementation, and simulation |
| Vivado Design Suite |
Modern development environment (limited compatibility) |
| JTAG Programmers |
In-circuit programming and debugging |
| Third-Party Tools |
Synopsys, Mentor Graphics, and other EDA tool support |
Programming and Configuration
Multiple configuration methods provide flexibility:
- JTAG programming: Standard IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan interface
- Master serial mode: Direct PROM connection
- Slave serial mode: System processor control
- SelectMAP parallel: High-speed configuration
Design Flow Overview
- HDL Design Entry: Verilog or VHDL code development
- Synthesis: Logic optimization and technology mapping
- Implementation: Place and route with timing closure
- Bitstream Generation: Configuration file creation
- Programming: Device configuration via JTAG or serial
- Verification: In-system testing and debugging
Quality and Reliability Standards
Manufacturing Quality
AMD maintains rigorous quality standards:
- ISO 9001 certified manufacturing
- RoHS compliance for environmental standards
- Comprehensive testing at multiple production stages
- Traceability for all production lots
Reliability Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to +70°C (commercial grade) |
| Storage Temperature |
-65°C to +150°C |
| ESD Protection |
Human Body Model (HBM) compliant |
| Latch-up Immunity |
JEDEC standard compliance |
| MTBF |
High reliability for production deployment |
Comparison with Related Devices
XCS20 Family Variants
| Part Number |
Package |
Speed Grade |
Application |
| XCS20-3VQ100C |
100-TQFP |
-3 (125MHz) |
Compact, commercial |
| XCS20-4VQ100C |
100-TQFP |
-4 (166MHz) |
Higher performance |
| XCS20-3TQ144C |
144-TQFP |
-3 (125MHz) |
More I/O pins |
| XCS20-3PQ208C |
208-PQFP |
-3 (125MHz) |
Maximum I/O |
Migration Path
Designers can easily scale within the Spartan family:
- Downgrade: XCS10 for simpler applications
- Upgrade: XCS30 or XCS40 for additional logic resources
- Pin-compatible options: Multiple package variants available
Procurement and Availability
Ordering Information
Complete part number: XCS20-3VQ100C
- XCS20: Device family and gate count
- 3: Speed grade (-3, commercial temperature)
- VQ100: 100-pin TQFP package
- C: Commercial temperature range
Supply Chain Considerations
The XCS20-3VQ100C remains available through:
- Authorized AMD distributors
- Major electronic component distributors
- Specialty FPGA suppliers
- Online component marketplaces
Stock availability: Regular production status; consult with distributors for current inventory levels and lead times.
Pricing Factors
Pricing varies based on:
- Order quantity (volume discounts available)
- Distribution channel
- Current market conditions
- Geographic location
- Additional services (programming, testing)
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation Available
Essential technical documentation includes:
- Datasheet: Detailed electrical and timing specifications
- User Guide: Configuration and usage instructions
- Application Notes: Design best practices and examples
- Reference Designs: Proven implementations for common applications
- Errata: Known issues and workarounds
Design Assistance
Technical support available through:
- AMD/Xilinx technical forums
- Authorized distributor field application engineers
- Online knowledge base and FAQs
- Email and phone support channels
- Community user groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the XCS20-3VQ100C suitable for ASIC replacement?
The XCS20-3VQ100C offers several advantages over ASICs: zero NRE costs, immediate time-to-market, design flexibility for future updates, and competitive pricing at production volumes. The 20,000 gate capacity handles most small to medium-scale logic requirements while maintaining high performance.
Is this FPGA compatible with 3.3V systems?
While the XCS20-3VQ100C is specified for 5V operation, the I/O pins can be configured to interface with 3.3V systems using appropriate level translation techniques. For native 3.3V operation, consider the Spartan-XL variant (XCS20XL).
What programming cable is required?
Standard Xilinx-compatible JTAG programming cables work with the XCS20-3VQ100C, including Platform Cable USB II, DLC10, and third-party compatible programmers. The device supports IEEE 1149.1 JTAG interface standard.
Can I migrate from XCS20-3VQ100C to newer FPGA families?
Design migration is possible to newer families like Spartan-3, Spartan-6, or Artix-7, though it requires design re-synthesis. The HDL source code is generally portable, but physical constraints and IP cores may need updating.
What is the expected lead time for orders?
Lead times vary by distributor and quantity but typically range from stock availability (same-day ship) to 8-12 weeks for large production orders. Contact authorized distributors for current lead time information.
Conclusion: Why Choose the XCS20-3VQ100C
The XCS20-3VQ100C represents a proven, reliable solution for embedded system designers requiring flexible programmable logic. Its combination of adequate gate count, integrated memory, PCI compliance, and standard package makes it an excellent choice for production applications. Whether you’re developing industrial controls, communications equipment, or consumer products, this Xilinx FPGA delivers the performance and features needed for successful product deployment.
With comprehensive development tool support, extensive documentation, and worldwide availability, the XCS20-3VQ100C minimizes development risk while maximizing design flexibility. For engineers seeking cost-effective ASIC replacement or custom logic implementation, this Spartan family FPGA remains a competitive option backed by AMD’s industry-leading FPGA expertise.
