Overview of XCS20-5PQ208C Field Programmable Gate Array
The XCS20-5PQ208C is a high-performance Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) manufactured by Xilinx (now AMD), belonging to the renowned Spartan and Spartan-XL FPGA families. This programmable logic device delivers exceptional flexibility and performance for digital circuit design, making it an ideal solution for ASIC replacement in high-volume production applications.
Key Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD) |
| Product Family |
Spartan FPGA |
| System Gates |
20,000 Gates |
| Logic Cells |
950 Cells |
| Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) |
400 CLBs |
| Maximum Frequency |
Speed grade dependent |
| Operating Voltage |
5V (4.75V~5.25V) |
| Package Type |
208-Pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Package) |
| I/O Pins |
160 I/O |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to +85°C (Commercial) |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
| RAM Size |
1.6kB |
| Total Pins |
208 |
XCS20-5PQ208C Features and Capabilities
Programmable Logic Architecture
The XCS20-5PQ208C FPGA features a robust architecture with 20,000 system gates and 950 logic cells, providing substantial resources for implementing complex digital designs. With 400 configurable logic blocks (CLBs), engineers can create custom logic functions tailored to specific application requirements.
High-Density Package Configuration
The 208-pin PQFP package offers:
- Compact footprint for space-constrained designs
- 160 user-programmable I/O pins
- Surface mount technology for automated assembly
- Enhanced thermal performance
Advanced Programming Features
| Feature |
Benefit |
| In-System Programmability |
Update designs without hardware replacement |
| JTAG Boundary-Scan |
IEEE 1149.1/1532 compliant testing and programming |
| Field Upgradeable |
Modify functionality after deployment |
| Reconfigurable Logic |
Adapt to changing requirements |
Applications of XCS20-5PQ208C FPGA
Industrial and Commercial Applications
The XCS20-5PQ208C excels in various demanding applications:
- Communications Equipment: Data routing, protocol conversion, signal processing
- Wireless Infrastructure: Base station controllers, radio frequency interfaces
- Industrial Control Systems: Automation controllers, machine vision, motor control
- Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS): Transaction processing, security systems
- Consumer Electronics: Smart devices, multimedia processing
- Computer Peripherals: Interface controllers, storage systems
Design Flexibility Benefits
Implementing Xilinx FPGA technology in your designs offers significant advantages over traditional ASICs:
- Zero initial tooling costs – eliminate expensive mask sets
- Rapid prototyping – iterate designs quickly
- Reduced time-to-market – no fabrication delays
- Lower risk – test and validate before production
- Design security – in-field updates and bug fixes
Performance Characteristics
Speed and Timing
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Speed Grade |
-5 (High performance) |
| System Clock |
Up to specified MHz (speed-grade dependent) |
| Propagation Delay |
Optimized for high-speed operation |
| Setup/Hold Times |
Industry-standard timing |
Power and Thermal Management
- Supply Voltage: 5V nominal (±5% tolerance)
- Power Consumption: Application-dependent
- Thermal Rating: Commercial temperature range
- Heat Dissipation: PQFP package with thermal considerations
XCS20-5PQ208C vs. Alternative Speed Grades
Comparison Table: XCS20 Series Variants
| Part Number |
Speed Grade |
Max Frequency |
Temperature Range |
| XCS20-3PQ208C |
-3 |
125 MHz |
Commercial (0°C to 85°C) |
| XCS20-4PQ208C |
-4 |
166 MHz |
Commercial (0°C to 85°C) |
| XCS20-5PQ208C |
-5 |
Highest |
Commercial (0°C to 85°C) |
| XCS20-5PQ208I |
-5 |
Highest |
Industrial (-40°C to 100°C) |
The -5 speed grade offers the best performance characteristics within the XCS20 family, making it suitable for applications requiring maximum operating frequency.
Development Tools and Support
Software and Programming Tools
Xilinx provides comprehensive development tools:
- Vivado Design Suite: Modern, integrated development environment
- ISE Design Tools: Legacy support for Spartan families
- Programming Solutions: In-system programming via JTAG
- Simulation Tools: Verify designs before implementation
Design Resources
| Resource Type |
Description |
| Datasheets |
Complete electrical and timing specifications |
| Application Notes |
Implementation guides and best practices |
| Reference Designs |
Pre-verified design examples |
| Technical Support |
Engineering assistance and documentation |
Pin Configuration and Package Details
208-Pin PQFP Package Specifications
- Package Dimensions: Compact quad flat package
- Pin Pitch: Standard PQFP spacing
- Thermal Pad: Enhanced heat dissipation
- Lead Configuration: Gull-wing leads for SMT assembly
I/O Standards Support
The XCS20-5PQ208C supports multiple I/O standards:
- TTL/CMOS compatible
- LVTTL
- PCI compliant
- Various voltage standards
Quality and Reliability Standards
Manufacturing Quality
- RoHS Compliance: Lead-free options available
- Quality Certifications: Industrial-grade manufacturing
- Reliability Testing: Extended temperature cycling
- Electrostatic Discharge (ESD): Protected design
Purchasing and Availability
Ordering Information
When ordering XCS20-5PQ208C, verify:
- Correct speed grade (-5)
- Temperature range (C = Commercial)
- Package type (PQ208)
- Lead-free requirements if applicable
Supply Chain Considerations
| Consideration |
Details |
| Availability |
Check with authorized distributors |
| Lead Times |
Varies by supplier and quantity |
| Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) |
Distributor-specific |
| Packaging Options |
Tray or tube packaging |
Design Implementation Best Practices
PCB Layout Guidelines
- Power Supply Decoupling: Place bypass capacitors close to power pins
- Signal Integrity: Maintain controlled impedance for high-speed signals
- Thermal Management: Ensure adequate cooling and airflow
- Ground Planes: Use solid ground planes for noise reduction
Programming and Configuration
- Implement JTAG chain for in-system programming
- Include configuration mode selection circuitry
- Plan for field updates and reconfiguration
- Use proper pull-up/pull-down resistors
Migration and Compatibility
Upgrade Paths
Engineers can migrate designs to newer Xilinx FPGA families:
- Spartan-II series for enhanced performance
- Spartan-3 series for increased density
- Modern Spartan-7 for latest technology
Pin Compatibility
The 208-pin PQFP package maintains compatibility within the XCS20 family, simplifying speed grade changes and design optimization.
Technical Support and Documentation
Available Resources
- Complete Datasheets: Electrical characteristics and timing parameters
- User Guides: Comprehensive design and implementation guides
- PCB Footprints: CAD library symbols and footprints
- Community Forums: Access to experienced FPGA engineers
Conclusion: Why Choose XCS20-5PQ208C
The XCS20-5PQ208C represents an excellent balance of performance, cost, and flexibility for embedded system designers. With 20,000 system gates, 950 logic cells, and the highest speed grade in the XCS20 family, this FPGA delivers the capabilities needed for demanding applications while maintaining the cost advantages of programmable logic.
Whether you’re developing communications equipment, industrial controllers, or consumer electronics, the XCS20-5PQ208C provides the programmable logic resources and performance characteristics necessary for successful product implementation. Its proven Spartan architecture, comprehensive development tool support, and field-programmable flexibility make it an ideal choice for both prototype development and high-volume production.
Keywords: XCS20-5PQ208C, Xilinx FPGA, Spartan FPGA, 20K gates FPGA, 208-pin PQFP, programmable logic, field programmable gate array, embedded systems, ASIC replacement, digital design, 5V FPGA, industrial FPGA, high-performance FPGA
Meta Description: XCS20-5PQ208C Xilinx Spartan FPGA – 20K gates, 950 cells, 208-pin PQFP package. High-performance programmable logic for industrial, communications, and embedded applications. Technical specs, applications, and design support.
