Meta Description: XCS30XL-4PQ208I is a Xilinx Spartan-XL FPGA with 30K gates, 1368 logic cells, 169 I/O pins, 3.3V operation, and 217MHz speed. Ideal for ASIC replacement and high-volume applications.
The XCS30XL-4PQ208I is a high-performance Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the renowned Xilinx Spartan-XL family. This industrial-grade device delivers exceptional versatility for designers seeking reliable, cost-effective programmable logic solutions. With 30,000 system gates and 1368 logic cells, this FPGA serves as an ideal choice for ASIC replacement, prototyping, and high-volume production applications.
XCS30XL-4PQ208I Key Features and Benefits
The XCS30XL-4PQ208I stands out in the Xilinx FPGA lineup due to its optimized balance of performance, power consumption, and cost-effectiveness. Xilinx designed this device specifically for engineers who need reliable programmable logic without the overhead of complex ASICs.
Low-Voltage 3.3V Operation
This Spartan-XL FPGA operates at 3.3V core voltage, providing significant power savings compared to 5V alternatives. The low-voltage architecture reduces heat dissipation and extends device longevity, making it suitable for battery-powered and thermally constrained applications.
High-Speed Performance up to 217MHz
The XCS30XL-4PQ208I achieves clock frequencies up to 217MHz, enabling designers to implement complex digital logic with demanding timing requirements. The -4 speed grade ensures consistent performance across industrial temperature ranges.
Industrial Temperature Grade Reliability
The “I” suffix indicates industrial temperature grade operation from -40°C to +85°C. This wide operating range ensures stable performance in harsh environments including automotive, industrial automation, and telecommunications equipment.
XCS30XL-4PQ208I Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx Inc. (AMD) |
| Product Family |
Spartan-XL |
| Part Number |
XCS30XL-4PQ208I |
| Logic Cells |
1,368 |
| System Gates |
30,000 |
| Typical Gate Range |
10,000 – 30,000 |
| Core Voltage |
3.3V |
| Maximum Frequency |
217 MHz |
| Speed Grade |
-4 |
| Temperature Grade |
Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) |
XCS30XL-4PQ208I Architecture Details
Configurable Logic Block (CLB) Structure
The internal architecture consists of a 24×24 CLB matrix, providing 576 total Configurable Logic Blocks. Each CLB contains three look-up tables (LUTs), two flip-flops, and signal steering multiplexers for maximum design flexibility.
| Architecture Parameter |
Specification |
| CLB Matrix |
24 × 24 |
| Total CLBs |
576 |
| Flip-Flops |
1,536 |
| Distributed RAM Bits |
18,432 |
| Maximum User I/O |
169 |
On-Chip Memory Resources
The XCS30XL-4PQ208I provides 18,432 bits of distributed RAM implemented within the CLB structure. This distributed memory architecture enables efficient implementation of small FIFOs, register files, and lookup tables without consuming dedicated memory blocks.
XCS30XL-4PQ208I Package Information
208-PQFP Package Specifications
| Package Parameter |
Value |
| Package Type |
208-PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
208 |
| Package Shape |
Square |
| Lead Type |
Gull Wing |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount (SMD) |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level |
MSL 3 |
| RoHS Status |
Compliant |
Pin Configuration Overview
The 208-pin PQFP package provides 169 user-configurable I/O pins. The remaining pins handle power supply (VCC, GND), configuration, and JTAG boundary scan functions. This generous I/O count supports complex system interfaces without requiring additional buffer ICs.
Programming and Configuration Options
JTAG Boundary Scan Support
The XCS30XL-4PQ208I fully supports IEEE 1149.1/1532 boundary scan standards. This enables in-system programming, board-level testing, and production debugging through the standard 4-wire JTAG interface. The device IDCODE is 00418093h.
Configuration Modes
| Configuration Mode |
Description |
| Master Serial |
Device generates CCLK internally |
| Slave Serial |
External master provides CCLK |
| Master Parallel |
8-bit parallel with internal CCLK |
| Slave Parallel |
8-bit parallel with external CCLK |
In-System Programmable PROM Support
Xilinx provides compatible in-system programmable PROMs for non-volatile configuration storage. This enables field updates and simplifies manufacturing by allowing post-assembly programming.
XCS30XL-4PQ208I Applications
The Spartan-XL XCS30XL-4PQ208I serves diverse application areas requiring programmable logic with industrial-grade reliability:
Industrial and Automation
- PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) implementations
- Motor control and drive systems
- Sensor interface and signal conditioning
- Industrial communication protocol bridges
Telecommunications Equipment
- Protocol converters and bridges
- Data multiplexing and switching
- Interface adaptation and buffering
- Timing and synchronization circuits
Consumer and Commercial Electronics
- Video processing and display controllers
- Audio digital signal processing
- Peripheral interface controllers
- Legacy system modernization
Design Tool Compatibility
Xilinx ISE Design Suite
The XCS30XL-4PQ208I requires Xilinx ISE Design Suite for development. This includes schematic capture, HDL synthesis (Verilog/VHDL), simulation, and implementation tools. Note that newer Vivado Design Suite does not support Spartan-XL devices.
Third-Party Tool Support
| Tool Category |
Compatible Options |
| HDL Simulation |
ModelSim, Active-HDL |
| Synthesis |
Synplify, XST |
| Schematic Entry |
ISE Schematic Editor |
| Board Layout |
Standard CAD tools with PQFP-208 footprint |
XCS30XL-4PQ208I Ordering Information
Part Number Breakdown
| Code Segment |
Meaning |
| XCS |
Xilinx Cost-optimized Spartan |
| 30 |
30K system gates |
| XL |
Low-voltage (3.3V) version |
| -4 |
Speed grade 4 |
| PQ |
Plastic Quad Flat Package |
| 208 |
208-pin count |
| I |
Industrial temperature grade |
Related Part Numbers
| Part Number |
Description |
| XCS30XL-4PQ208C |
Commercial temperature grade (0°C to +70°C) |
| XCS30XL-4TQ144I |
144-pin TQFP industrial grade |
| XCS30XL-5PQ208I |
Faster -5 speed grade |
| XCS30-4PQ208I |
5V version (non-XL) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between XCS30 and XCS30XL?
The XCS30XL operates at 3.3V core voltage while the XCS30 requires 5V. The XL version offers lower power consumption and compatibility with modern 3.3V logic systems. Both devices share identical logic capacity and architecture.
Can I use Vivado for XCS30XL-4PQ208I development?
No, Vivado Design Suite does not support Spartan-XL devices. You must use Xilinx ISE Design Suite, which remains available for download from AMD’s website for legacy device support.
What is the configuration bitstream size?
The XCS30XL configuration bitstream requires approximately 292,000 bits. Configuration time depends on the selected mode and clock frequency, typically completing within milliseconds.
Is XCS30XL-4PQ208I suitable for new designs?
While still available, the Spartan-XL family is a mature product line. For new designs requiring similar capabilities, consider evaluating current-generation Spartan or Artix devices. However, XCS30XL remains an excellent choice for legacy system maintenance and cost-sensitive applications.
Conclusion
The XCS30XL-4PQ208I delivers proven reliability and performance for programmable logic applications requiring industrial-grade operation. With 30,000 system gates, 1368 logic cells, and 169 user I/O pins in a 208-PQFP package, this Xilinx Spartan-XL FPGA provides an optimal solution for ASIC replacement, prototyping, and production applications. The 3.3V operation, 217MHz performance, and comprehensive JTAG support make the XCS30XL-4PQ208I a versatile choice for embedded system designers across industrial, telecommunications, and commercial sectors.
