Overview of XCS30-4PQ208C FPGA Solution

The XCS30-4PQ208C is a discontinued but highly sought-after field programmable gate array from AMD Xilinx’s Spartan family. This surface mount FPGA delivers robust performance for ASIC replacement applications up to 30,000 gates. Engineers and designers continue to source this component for legacy system maintenance, production support, and cost-effective prototyping projects.

As part of the Spartan series, the XCS30-4PQ208C represents Xilinx’s commitment to providing high-volume production solutions that balance performance, functionality, and affordability. While newer Xilinx FPGA models have superseded this device, it remains critical for maintaining existing designs and extending product lifecycles.

Technical Specifications Table

Key Features and Benefits

High-Performance Architecture

The XCS30-4PQ208C FPGA features 576 configurable logic blocks (CLBs) that provide exceptional flexibility for custom digital logic implementation. With 1,368 logic cells and support for clock speeds up to 166 MHz, this device handles complex sequential and combinational logic operations efficiently.

Embedded Memory Resources

This FPGA includes 18,432 bits of distributed RAM, enabling designers to implement buffers, FIFOs, lookup tables, and small memory structures directly within the logic fabric. This on-chip memory reduces external component requirements and improves system performance.

Extensive I/O Capabilities

With 169 user-configurable I/O pins, the XCS30-4PQ208C provides ample connectivity for interfacing with external devices, memory chips, communication buses, and control systems. The 208-pin PQFP package offers a favorable balance between pin count and board space requirements.

ASIC Replacement Solution

The Spartan family was specifically designed for ASIC replacement and high-volume production. The XCS30-4PQ208C delivers comparable functionality to gate array ASICs while eliminating lengthy development cycles, high NRE costs, and manufacturing risks associated with traditional ASIC development.

Application Areas

Industrial Control Systems

The XCS30-4PQ208C excels in industrial automation applications including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), motor control systems, sensor interfaces, and process monitoring equipment. The 5V operation makes it compatible with legacy industrial standards.

Communications Equipment

Telecommunications equipment manufacturers utilize this FPGA for protocol conversion, data formatting, signal processing, and interface bridging applications. The 166 MHz performance handles moderate data rates effectively.

Legacy System Maintenance

With production discontinued, sourcing XCS30-4PQ208C components remains critical for aerospace, defense, medical, and industrial systems requiring long-term support and replacement parts for existing designs.

Prototyping and Development

Engineers leverage this FPGA for proof-of-concept designs, algorithm validation, and hardware prototyping before committing to custom silicon or higher-performance devices.

Design and Integration Considerations

Power Requirements

The XCS30-4PQ208C requires a regulated 5V supply within the 4.75V to 5.25V tolerance range. Designers should implement proper decoupling capacitors near the power pins to minimize supply noise and ensure stable operation.

Thermal Management

With an operating temperature range of 0°C to 85°C junction temperature, this device is suitable for commercial and extended industrial temperature environments. Proper heatsinking may be required depending on utilization and ambient conditions.

Programming and Configuration

The XCS30-4PQ208C supports standard Xilinx configuration methods including JTAG boundary scan, serial PROM, and parallel configuration interfaces. Legacy design tools like ISE Design Suite are required for development.

Package Information

208-Pin PQFP Package Details

The compact 208-PQFP footprint enables high-density board layouts while maintaining acceptable hand-soldering and rework capabilities compared to fine-pitch BGA packages.

Comparison with Related Xilinx FPGAs

The XCS30-4PQ208C occupies the mid-range position in the 5V Spartan family, offering balanced resources for moderate complexity designs. The XL variant provides lower power operation at 3.3V for applications prioritizing energy efficiency.

Sourcing and Availability

Current Market Status

As a discontinued product, the XCS30-4PQ208C is available through specialized distributors, surplus component suppliers, and electronic component brokers. Availability fluctuates based on remaining inventory from original production runs.

Recommended Sourcing Strategies

Engineers requiring XCS30-4PQ208C components should consider multiple sourcing channels including authorized distributors with remaining stock, franchise distributors with excess inventory, and reputable independent distributors specializing in obsolete and hard-to-find components.

Authentication and Quality

When sourcing discontinued FPGAs, verify component authenticity through visual inspection, date code validation, and purchasing from established distributors with quality assurance programs. Counterfeit detection is essential for mission-critical applications.

Development Tools and Resources

Design Software

The XCS30-4PQ208C requires Xilinx ISE (Integrated Synthesis Environment) design software for FPGA development. Modern Vivado tools do not support this legacy device family. ISE versions 14.7 and earlier provide complete design flow support.

Programming Hardware

Standard Xilinx programming cables including Platform Cable USB and compatible JTAG programmers enable device configuration and debugging. The FPGA supports IEEE 1149.1 boundary scan for testing and programming.

Documentation Resources

Xilinx provides archived datasheets, user guides, and application notes for the Spartan FPGA family. These resources remain accessible through the AMD Xilinx documentation archive for designers maintaining legacy systems.

Environmental and Compliance Information

RoHS Compliance Status

The XCS30-4PQ208C is not RoHS compliant according to original manufacturing specifications. For applications requiring RoHS compliance, designers should evaluate alternative devices or obtain specific exemption documentation.

REACH Compliance

This device is classified as a non-REACH product based on available manufacturer data. Verify current compliance status with authorized distributors for specific regional requirements.

Export Classification

The XCS30-4PQ208C carries an ECCN (Export Control Classification Number) of EAR99, indicating it is subject to standard export regulations without specialized restrictions for most destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between XCS30-4PQ208C and XCS30XL-4PQ208C?

The primary differences are operating voltage and performance. The standard XCS30-4PQ208C operates at 5V with 166 MHz maximum frequency, while the XL variant operates at 3.3V with improved 217 MHz performance and lower power consumption.

Can I use modern Vivado tools with XCS30-4PQ208C?

No, the XCS30-4PQ208C requires legacy ISE Design Suite software. Vivado supports only 7-series and newer Xilinx devices. ISE version 14.7 is the last version supporting Spartan devices.

What are suitable replacement options for XCS30-4PQ208C?

For new designs, consider modern Spartan-7 or Artix-7 devices which offer significantly higher performance, lower power, and active production status. Direct pin-compatible replacements are not available due to technology evolution.

Where can I purchase XCS30-4PQ208C components?

Specialized distributors, component brokers, and surplus electronic suppliers maintain inventory of discontinued Xilinx FPGAs. Verify supplier reputation and component authenticity before purchasing.

What development board options exist for XCS30-4PQ208C?

Purpose-built development boards for this specific device are generally unavailable. Custom PCB design or adapter boards are required for development and prototyping activities.

Conclusion

The XCS30-4PQ208C remains a valuable component for maintaining legacy systems and supporting existing designs that cannot easily migrate to modern FPGA families. Its balanced feature set, 30K gate capacity, and 5V operation make it suitable for industrial, communications, and embedded applications requiring moderate logic resources.

For engineers working with existing XCS30-4PQ208C designs, understanding sourcing strategies, authentication methods, and design tool requirements ensures successful project completion. While newer FPGA families offer superior performance and features, the XCS30-4PQ208C continues serving critical roles in deployed systems worldwide.

Organizations planning long-term product support should evaluate migration paths to current Xilinx FPGA families while maintaining XCS30-4PQ208C inventory for near-term production and service requirements. Partnering with experienced distributors and design service providers helps navigate obsolescence challenges and extend product lifecycles effectively.