Overview of XCS30-3PQ208I Field Programmable Gate Array
The XCS30-3PQ208I is a high-performance field programmable gate array (FPGA) from AMD Xilinx’s renowned Spartan family. This industrial-grade FPGA delivers exceptional programmable logic capabilities with 1,368 logic cells and up to 30,000 system gates, making it an ideal choice for complex digital designs and ASIC replacement applications.
Originally manufactured by Xilinx (now part of AMD), the XCS30-3PQ208I represents a proven solution for engineers requiring reliable, cost-effective programmable logic in industrial temperature environments.
Key Features and Specifications
Core FPGA Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Logic Cells |
1,368 |
| Maximum System Gates |
30,000 |
| Typical Gate Range |
10,000-30,000 |
| CLB Matrix |
24 x 24 |
| Total CLBs |
576 |
| Flip-Flops |
1,536 |
| Maximum User I/O |
192 |
| Distributed RAM Bits |
18,432 |
Package and Environmental Details
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Package Type |
PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
208-pin |
| Package Code |
PQ208 |
| Operating Temperature |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
| Speed Grade |
-3 (Standard Performance) |
| Supply Voltage |
5V |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
Technical Architecture and Performance
Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs)
The XCS30-3PQ208I features a robust CLB architecture optimized for versatile digital logic implementation. Each CLB contains:
- Three Look-Up Tables (LUTs): Function generators for implementing complex combinatorial logic
- Two Flip-Flops: Register elements for sequential logic design
- Signal Steering Multiplexers: Flexible routing and logic optimization
- Distributed RAM Capability: Up to 18,432 bits of distributed memory
This architecture enables the FPGA to implement functions of up to nine inputs, providing exceptional flexibility for complex digital designs.
Programmable Interconnect Resources
The device incorporates a hierarchical routing architecture with:
- Versatile routing channels between CLBs
- Programmable Input/Output Blocks (IOBs) surrounding the logic array
- Long lines for high-speed signal distribution
- Optimized carry logic chains for arithmetic operations
Input/Output Capabilities
With up to 192 user-configurable I/O pins, the XCS30-3PQ208I supports:
- Multiple I/O standards
- Programmable drive strength
- Individual I/O configuration
- 3-state buffer capability
- IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary-scan support
Application Areas and Use Cases
Industrial Automation and Control
The XCS30-3PQ208I excels in industrial environments requiring:
- Motor control and drive systems
- Process automation controllers
- Industrial communication interfaces
- Sensor data acquisition and processing
- Real-time control algorithms
Communication Systems
Perfect for implementing:
- Protocol converters and bridges
- Custom communication interfaces
- Data encryption/decryption engines
- Signal processing modules
- Network interface controllers
Embedded Systems Development
Ideal for:
- ASIC prototyping and replacement
- Custom peripheral controllers
- Glue logic replacement
- System-on-chip (SoC) development
- Hardware acceleration modules
Test and Measurement Equipment
Supports applications including:
- High-speed data acquisition
- Signal generation and analysis
- Custom test interfaces
- Automated test equipment (ATE)
- Laboratory instrumentation
Design Tools and Development Support
Compatible Development Environments
The XCS30-3PQ208I is supported by industry-standard Xilinx FPGA development tools, including:
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite
- FPGA Editor for detailed design placement
- HDL synthesis tools (VHDL and Verilog)
- Timing analysis and optimization tools
- JTAG programming and debugging interfaces
Programming and Configuration
Multiple configuration options available:
- Master Serial mode
- Slave Serial mode
- Boundary-Scan (JTAG) mode
- In-system programming capability
- Configuration through external PROM
Performance Characteristics
Speed and Timing
| Parameter |
Value |
| Speed Grade |
-3 (Commercial) |
| System Clock Frequency |
Up to 100 MHz (design-dependent) |
| Internal Oscillator |
4-10 MHz |
| Configuration Time |
< 100ms typical |
Power Specifications
The device features low-power operation with:
- Active power management
- Power-down mode support
- Configurable I/O drive strength
- Optimized core voltage operation
Industrial-Grade Reliability
Temperature Range and Durability
The “I” grade designation indicates industrial temperature rating:
- Operating Range: -40°C to +85°C
- Extended reliability for harsh environments
- Proven performance in demanding applications
- Long-term availability and support
Quality and Compliance
- RoHS compliant options available
- JEDEC standard packaging
- Comprehensive device testing
- Industry-standard quality assurance
Comparison with Spartan Family Members
XCS30 vs. Other Spartan Devices
| Device |
Logic Cells |
System Gates |
I/O Pins |
RAM Bits |
| XCS20 |
950 |
20,000 |
160 |
12,800 |
| XCS30 |
1,368 |
30,000 |
192 |
18,432 |
| XCS40 |
1,862 |
40,000 |
224 |
25,088 |
The XCS30 offers an optimal balance between logic capacity and cost-effectiveness for mid-range applications.
Package Information and PCB Design
PQ208 Package Dimensions
The 208-pin PQFP package offers:
- 28mm x 28mm body size
- 0.5mm lead pitch
- Industry-standard footprint
- Excellent thermal characteristics
- Compatible with standard PCB assembly processes
PCB Design Considerations
When designing with the XCS30-3PQ208I:
- Provide adequate power supply decoupling
- Implement proper ground plane design
- Consider signal integrity for high-speed signals
- Plan for JTAG programming access
- Allow thermal management considerations
Ordering Information and Availability
Part Number Breakdown
XCS30-3PQ208I decodes as:
- XCS30: Spartan family, 30,000-gate device
- -3: Speed grade (standard performance)
- PQ208: 208-pin plastic quad flat pack
- I: Industrial temperature range
Related Part Numbers
Common variants include:
- XCS30-3PQ208C: Commercial temperature grade
- XCS30-4PQ208I: Faster speed grade, industrial temp
- XCS30XL-3PQ208I: Low-power variant
Why Choose XCS30-3PQ208I?
Cost-Effective ASIC Replacement
The XCS30-3PQ208I delivers:
- Zero NRE costs compared to ASICs
- Rapid design iteration capability
- Field-upgradable functionality
- Production-ready pricing for volume applications
- Reduced time-to-market
Proven Technology Platform
Benefits of the Spartan architecture:
- Mature, well-understood design flow
- Extensive IP core library support
- Comprehensive documentation
- Strong community and vendor support
- Long product lifecycle
Industrial-Grade Reliability
Designed for demanding environments:
- Extended temperature operation
- Proven reliability in production systems
- Comprehensive device characterization
- Quality manufacturing processes
Getting Started with XCS30-3PQ208I
Design Flow Overview
- Requirements Analysis: Define system specifications
- HDL Coding: Develop design in VHDL or Verilog
- Synthesis: Convert HDL to netlist
- Implementation: Place and route design
- Timing Analysis: Verify performance requirements
- Programming: Configure FPGA device
- Verification: Test in target application
Essential Design Resources
Access comprehensive support materials:
- Complete datasheet and specifications
- Application notes and design guides
- Reference designs and IP cores
- Technical support and community forums
- Training materials and tutorials
Technical Support and Documentation
For engineers working with the XCS30-3PQ208I, AMD Xilinx provides:
- Detailed datasheets with AC/DC specifications
- Application notes covering common design challenges
- Package mechanical drawings for PCB layout
- IBIS models for signal integrity simulation
- Software user guides and tutorials
Conclusion
The XCS30-3PQ208I represents a mature, reliable FPGA solution for industrial applications requiring up to 30,000 gates of programmable logic. With its proven Spartan architecture, industrial temperature rating, and comprehensive development tool support, this device continues to serve as an excellent choice for ASIC replacement, custom logic implementation, and embedded system development.
Whether you’re designing industrial control systems, communication interfaces, or embedded applications, the XCS30-3PQ208I offers the performance, flexibility, and reliability needed for demanding production environments. Its combination of adequate logic resources, extensive I/O capability, and industrial-grade specifications makes it an ideal solution for a wide range of programmable logic applications.
