Product Overview
The XCS30-3PQ240C is a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from AMD Xilinx’s renowned Spartan family, delivering exceptional performance and versatility for high-volume production applications. This FPGA provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional ASIC designs while maintaining the flexibility needed for modern digital logic implementations.
As part of the legendary Spartan series, the XCS30-3PQ240C represents the perfect balance between functionality, performance, and affordability. Whether you’re developing industrial automation systems, telecommunications equipment, or consumer electronics, this FPGA offers the programmable logic capabilities you need for successful product deployment.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XCS30-3PQ240C |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (formerly Xilinx) |
| Product Family |
Spartan® FPGA |
| Total Logic Gates |
30,000 gates |
| Typical Gate Range |
10,000 to 30,000 gates |
| Number of CLBs |
576 Configurable Logic Blocks |
| Logic Elements/Cells |
1,368 logic cells |
| Total RAM Bits |
18,432 bits |
| I/O Count |
192 user I/O pins |
| Package Type |
240-BFQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Package Size |
32mm × 32mm |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to 85°C (Commercial Grade) |
| Supply Voltage |
4.75V to 5.25V |
| Technology Node |
5V CMOS process |
Core Features and Capabilities
Advanced Architecture Design
The XCS30-3PQ240C leverages Xilinx’s proven FPGA architecture to deliver:
- 576 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) arranged in a 24×24 array for optimal routing efficiency
- 1,368 logic cells providing extensive combinational and sequential logic resources
- 18,432 bits of distributed RAM enabling efficient data buffering and storage
- 192 user-configurable I/O pins supporting multiple voltage standards and signaling protocols
Performance Characteristics
| Performance Metric |
Value |
| Speed Grade |
-3 (Standard Performance) |
| Maximum Frequency |
Up to 125 MHz system clock |
| Propagation Delay |
Optimized for fast signal paths |
| Configuration Time |
Rapid SRAM-based configuration |
Memory and Storage
The integrated memory architecture includes:
- Distributed RAM using CLB resources
- Flexible memory implementation options
- Support for FIFO buffers and small memory arrays
- Efficient use of logic resources for memory functions
Package Information
240-BFQFP Package Details
| Package Attribute |
Details |
| Pin Count |
240 pins |
| Package Format |
Bumpered Plastic Quad Flat Pack (BFQFP) |
| Body Size |
32mm × 32mm |
| Lead Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Mounting |
Surface Mount Device (SMD) |
| Package Height |
Standard low-profile design |
| RoHS Status |
Non-compliant (legacy product) |
Target Applications and Use Cases
Industrial Automation Systems
The XCS30-3PQ240C excels in industrial control applications:
- PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) implementations
- Motor control and drive systems
- Factory automation interfaces
- Process control equipment
- Industrial communication protocols
Telecommunications Infrastructure
Deploy this FPGA in telecom applications:
- Protocol converters and bridges
- Digital signal processing blocks
- Communication interface cards
- Line cards and switching matrices
- Data format conversion
Consumer Electronics
Ideal for various consumer products:
- Digital video processing
- Audio equipment controllers
- Gaming console peripherals
- Set-top boxes
- Home automation devices
Embedded Systems
Perfect for embedded computing:
- Coprocessor implementations
- Custom peripheral controllers
- Interface bridge designs
- Real-time data processing
- System control logic
Design Advantages
ASIC Replacement Benefits
The XCS30-3PQ240C offers compelling advantages over traditional ASICs:
- Zero NRE Costs: Eliminate mask charges and initial tooling expenses
- Rapid Time-to-Market: Deploy designs in weeks instead of months
- Design Flexibility: Modify and update functionality post-deployment
- Risk Mitigation: Avoid the inherent risks of fixed silicon designs
- Lower Development Costs: Reduce overall project expenditure
Cost-Effective Scalability
- Competitive pricing for high-volume production
- Reduced inventory complexity with single-part flexibility
- Lower obsolescence risk through reprogrammability
- Simplified supply chain management
Development and Programming
Design Tools Compatibility
The XCS30-3PQ240C is supported by industry-standard Xilinx FPGA development tools:
- ISE Design Suite: Complete design environment for Spartan FPGAs
- VHDL and Verilog: Full HDL language support
- Schematic Entry: Graphical design capture options
- Timing Analyzer: Comprehensive timing analysis and verification
- Simulator: Built-in simulation capabilities
Configuration Methods
Multiple configuration options provide flexibility:
- Master Serial Mode
- Slave Serial Mode
- Boundary Scan (JTAG)
- SelectMAP parallel interface
- External PROM devices
Electrical Characteristics
Power Supply Requirements
| Parameter |
Min |
Typ |
Max |
Unit |
| VCC (Core) |
4.75 |
5.0 |
5.25 |
V |
| VCC (I/O) |
4.75 |
5.0 |
5.25 |
V |
| Power Consumption |
– |
Varies |
– |
mW |
Thermal Specifications
- Commercial Temperature Range: 0°C to +85°C (TJ)
- Package Thermal Resistance: Dependent on PCB design and airflow
- Recommended Operating Conditions: Adequate cooling and thermal management
Quality and Reliability
Product Status
Important Notice: The XCS30-3PQ240C is currently listed as obsolete by AMD Xilinx. Design engineers should:
- Consider migration paths to current-generation Spartan devices
- Plan for long-term availability through authorized distributors
- Evaluate newer FPGA families for new designs
- Stock adequate inventory for existing product lifecycles
Manufacturing Standards
- Manufactured using proven semiconductor processes
- Quality assurance testing including functional and parametric tests
- Available through authorized distribution channels
- Tray packaging for volume production
Competitive Advantages
Why Choose XCS30-3PQ240C?
- Proven Track Record: Deployed in thousands of successful designs worldwide
- Comprehensive Documentation: Extensive datasheets and application notes available
- Strong Ecosystem: Mature development tools and IP cores
- Flexible I/O: 192 configurable pins support diverse interface requirements
- Reliable Performance: Commercial-grade temperature range for most applications
Comparison with Alternative Solutions
| Feature |
XCS30-3PQ240C |
ASIC Alternative |
CPLD Solution |
| Initial Cost |
Low |
Very High |
Low |
| Time to Market |
Fast |
Slow |
Fast |
| Flexibility |
High |
None |
Medium |
| Gate Density |
30K gates |
Unlimited |
Limited |
| Performance |
High |
Highest |
Medium |
| Power Efficiency |
Good |
Best |
Good |
Pin Configuration and I/O Standards
I/O Capabilities
The 192 user I/O pins support:
- TTL/CMOS voltage levels
- Programmable slew rates
- Pull-up and pull-down options
- Input hysteresis
- Multiple drive strengths
Pinout Organization
The 240-pin BFQFP package includes:
- 192 user I/O pins
- Dedicated configuration pins
- Power and ground connections
- Clock input pins
- Mode selection pins
Design Considerations
PCB Layout Guidelines
For optimal performance, consider:
- Decoupling: Place 0.1μF capacitors near each power pin
- Power Distribution: Use adequate copper weight for power planes
- Signal Integrity: Maintain controlled impedance for high-speed signals
- Thermal Management: Ensure adequate airflow and cooling
- Configuration: Route configuration signals with care
Clock Management
- Multiple global clock networks available
- Phase-locked loop (PLL) support varies by device
- Clock distribution network optimized for low skew
- External clock sources recommended for precise timing
Supply Chain and Availability
Ordering Information
- Part Number: XCS30-3PQ240C
- Speed Grade: -3 (standard performance)
- Package Code: PQ240 (240-pin BFQFP)
- Temperature Grade: C (Commercial: 0°C to 85°C)
- Packaging: Tray
Distribution Channels
Available through:
- Authorized AMD Xilinx distributors
- Electronic component marketplaces
- Specialized FPGA suppliers
- Regional electronics distributors
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation
Complete technical documentation includes:
- Product datasheet with detailed specifications
- User guide covering architecture and features
- Application notes for common design scenarios
- PCB layout recommendations
- Configuration guides
Development Support
- Online technical forums and communities
- Application engineering assistance
- Reference designs and example projects
- IP core libraries for common functions
- Training materials and tutorials
Migration and Upgrade Paths
Future-Proofing Your Design
Since the XCS30-3PQ240C is obsolete, consider:
- Spartan-3 Family: Pin-compatible upgrades with enhanced features
- Spartan-6 Series: Modern low-power alternatives
- Artix-7 FPGAs: Advanced 28nm technology for new designs
- Cost-Optimized Solutions: Current-generation cost-effective options
Design Reuse Strategies
- HDL code typically ports with minimal modifications
- IP cores may require updates for newer architectures
- Timing constraints need verification in new devices
- I/O standards remain compatible across families
Conclusion
The XCS30-3PQ240C remains a capable FPGA solution for applications requiring 30,000 gates of programmable logic in a compact 240-pin BFQFP package. With 192 configurable I/O pins, 18,432 bits of distributed RAM, and proven Spartan architecture, this device offers excellent value for cost-sensitive, high-volume production environments.
While designated as obsolete, the XCS30-3PQ240C continues to serve existing designs and applications where its specifications meet requirements. For new projects, engineers should evaluate current-generation alternatives while leveraging the extensive knowledge base and proven design methodologies established with the Spartan family.
The combination of flexible architecture, comprehensive I/O capabilities, and industry-standard development tools makes the XCS30-3PQ240C an enduring choice for digital logic implementation across industrial, telecommunications, and consumer electronics markets.
