Product Overview
The XCS30XL-4TQ144C is a field programmable gate array (FPGA) from AMD (formerly Xilinx) Spartan-XL family, designed specifically for high-volume production applications requiring reliable ASIC replacement solutions. This programmable logic device delivers exceptional performance with 30,000 system gates, 1,368 logic cells, and 113 user I/O pins in a compact 144-pin TQFP package.
As a member of the renowned Xilinx FPGA product line, the XCS30XL-4TQ144C combines affordability with powerful features, making it an ideal choice for industrial automation, telecommunications, consumer electronics, and embedded system applications.
Key Technical Specifications
Core FPGA Characteristics
| Specification |
Value |
| Logic Cells |
1,368 CLBs |
| System Gates |
30,000 gates |
| User I/O Pins |
113 |
| Maximum Operating Frequency |
217 MHz |
| Supply Voltage |
3.3V |
| Speed Grade |
-4 (fastest) |
| Package Type |
144-TQFP |
| Operating Temperature |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
Memory and Storage Capabilities
| Feature |
Details |
| Total RAM Bits |
18,432 bits |
| Block RAM Configuration |
Distributed RAM architecture |
| Configuration Memory |
Single-time programmable |
| Programming Technology |
SRAM-based configuration |
Electrical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Core Voltage (VCCINT) |
3.3V ±5% |
| I/O Voltage (VCCO) |
3.3V ±5% |
| Maximum Power Consumption |
TBD (application dependent) |
| I/O Standards Supported |
LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI |
Product Features and Benefits
Advanced Architecture Design
The XCS30XL-4TQ144C employs Xilinx’s proven Spartan-XL architecture, optimized for cost-sensitive applications without compromising performance. The device features:
- High-density logic resources with 1,368 configurable logic blocks for complex digital designs
- Fast propagation delays enabling system clock speeds up to 217 MHz
- Flexible I/O configuration supporting multiple voltage standards and interface protocols
- Embedded RAM blocks providing efficient on-chip memory solutions
Application-Specific Advantages
This FPGA excels in applications requiring:
- Industrial control systems with real-time processing requirements
- Communication interface bridging between different protocols
- Digital signal processing for audio and video applications
- Motor control and automation in manufacturing environments
- Prototype development before ASIC production commitment
Cost-Effective ASIC Alternative
The Spartan-XL family bridges the gap between traditional FPGAs and application-specific integrated circuits by offering:
- No non-recurring engineering (NRE) costs typical of ASIC development
- Rapid time-to-market with immediate programming capability
- Design flexibility with field-upgradeable configuration
- Lower risk compared to fixed-function ASICs
- Volume pricing approaching ASIC cost structures
Package and Pinout Information
144-Pin TQFP Package Details
| Package Parameter |
Dimension |
| Package Type |
Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP) |
| Total Pins |
144 |
| Body Size |
20mm × 20mm × 1.4mm |
| Pin Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Lead Frame Material |
Copper alloy |
| Package Weight |
Approximately 0.5g |
Pin Configuration Breakdown
| Pin Function |
Quantity |
| User I/O Pins |
113 |
| Power (VCC) Pins |
Multiple |
| Ground (GND) Pins |
Multiple |
| Configuration Pins |
8 |
| JTAG Boundary Scan |
4 |
Performance Characteristics
Speed Grade Comparison
| Speed Grade |
Maximum Frequency |
Propagation Delay |
Application Focus |
| XCS30XL-3 |
166 MHz |
Standard |
General purpose |
| XCS30XL-4 |
217 MHz |
Fast |
High-performance |
| XCS30XL-5 |
250 MHz |
Fastest |
Timing-critical |
The -4 speed grade represents the optimal balance between performance and cost, delivering 217 MHz operation suitable for most demanding applications.
Logic Resource Utilization
| Resource Type |
Available Units |
Typical Usage |
| 4-Input LUTs |
2,736 |
Logic implementation |
| Flip-Flops |
2,736 |
State storage |
| Distributed RAM |
18,432 bits |
Small memory blocks |
| I/O Buffers |
113 |
External interfacing |
Design and Development Tools
Compatible Software Tools
The XCS30XL-4TQ144C is supported by industry-standard Xilinx development tools:
- ISE Design Suite – Complete FPGA design environment
- WebPACK – Free downloadable design software
- ChipScope Pro – Integrated logic analyzer
- JTAG programming tools – Device configuration interface
Programming and Configuration
| Configuration Method |
Description |
| Master Serial Mode |
FPGA controls external PROM |
| Slave Serial Mode |
External processor controls FPGA |
| JTAG Boundary Scan |
Programming via IEEE 1149.1 |
| SelectMAP Mode |
Parallel configuration interface |
Application Examples
Industrial Automation Systems
The XCS30XL-4TQ144C provides robust control capabilities for:
- Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Motion control systems
- Factory automation networks
- Process monitoring equipment
Telecommunications Equipment
Ideal for implementing:
- Protocol converters and bridges
- Digital signal processing functions
- Interface controllers
- Communication multiplexers
Consumer Electronics
Commonly used in:
- Set-top boxes and media players
- Digital camera controllers
- Gaming console peripherals
- Smart home devices
Quality and Reliability
Manufacturing Standards
| Qualification |
Status |
| RoHS Compliance |
Yes |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level |
MSL 3 |
| ESD Rating |
Class 1C (>1000V) |
| Quality Grade |
Industrial |
Reliability Testing
The device undergoes comprehensive testing including:
- High-temperature operating life (HTOL)
- Temperature cycling stress
- Moisture resistance testing
- Electrostatic discharge qualification
Ordering Information
Part Number Breakdown
XCS30XL-4TQ144C
- XCS30XL – Spartan-XL family, 30K gates
- 4 – Speed grade (-4)
- TQ144 – 144-pin TQFP package
- C – Commercial temperature range
Package Marking
Standard package marking includes:
- Part number
- Speed grade
- Date code
- Lot trace code
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation Available
Engineers can access comprehensive technical documentation:
- Complete datasheet with timing specifications
- Application notes for specific use cases
- Reference designs and example projects
- PCB layout guidelines
Getting Started
For new designs using the XCS30XL-4TQ144C:
- Download Xilinx ISE WebPACK development software
- Review Spartan-XL family datasheet
- Evaluate reference designs
- Utilize Xilinx technical support resources
- Connect with FPGA development community
Competitive Advantages
Versus Traditional ASICs
| Factor |
XCS30XL-4TQ144C FPGA |
Traditional ASIC |
| Development Time |
Weeks |
Months to years |
| NRE Costs |
Zero |
$100K – $1M+ |
| Design Flexibility |
Field-upgradeable |
Fixed function |
| Volume Economics |
Cost-effective <100K units |
Better >500K units |
| Time-to-Market |
Immediate |
6-18 months |
Versus Higher-End FPGAs
The Spartan-XL family offers:
- Lower cost per gate compared to Virtex series
- Simpler design tools reducing learning curve
- Adequate performance for majority of applications
- Proven reliability in high-volume production
Conclusion
The XCS30XL-4TQ144C represents an excellent choice for engineers seeking a reliable, cost-effective programmable logic solution. With 30,000 gates, 113 I/O pins, and 217 MHz performance in a compact 144-TQFP package, this Spartan-XL FPGA delivers the functionality needed for diverse applications ranging from industrial control to consumer electronics.
Its SRAM-based architecture, comprehensive development tool support, and field-programmable nature make it an ideal ASIC replacement for medium-volume production runs. The commercial temperature range and industrial-grade reliability ensure consistent performance in demanding operating environments.
Whether you’re developing communication interfaces, implementing custom logic functions, or prototyping next-generation embedded systems, the XCS30XL-4TQ144C provides the perfect balance of performance, flexibility, and value.
