Overview of XCS30XL-5PQ240C Field Programmable Gate Array
The XCS30XL-5PQ240C is a member of AMD’s (formerly Xilinx) Spartan-XL FPGA family, offering exceptional programmable logic capabilities for a wide range of digital design applications. This advanced integrated circuit combines flexibility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, making it an ideal choice for engineers and designers working on complex digital systems.
Key Technical Specifications
XCS30XL-5PQ240C Core Features
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
AMD (Xilinx) |
| Part Number |
XCS30XL-5PQ240C |
| Device Family |
Spartan-XL |
| Logic Elements |
1,368 Logic Cells |
| System Gates |
30,000 Gates |
| Typical Gate Range |
10,000-30,000 Gates |
| CLB Array |
24 x 24 (576 CLBs) |
| Maximum User I/O |
192 Pins |
| Total Flip-Flops |
1,536 |
| RAM Bits |
18,432 bits |
Package and Physical Characteristics
| Parameter |
Value |
| Package Type |
PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Pin Count |
240-Pin |
| Supply Voltage |
3.3V |
| Speed Grade |
-5 (Standard Performance) |
| Operating Temperature |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
XCS30XL-5PQ240C Architecture and Design
Configurable Logic Block (CLB) Structure
The XCS30XL-5PQ240C features 576 CLBs arranged in a 24×24 array, providing designers with substantial logic resources. Each CLB includes multiple Look-Up Tables (LUTs), flip-flops, and multiplexers, enabling efficient implementation of complex combinatorial and sequential logic functions.
Memory and Storage Capabilities
With 18,432 RAM bits integrated into the device, the XCS30XL-5PQ240C offers flexible on-chip memory options. Designers can configure portions of the CLBs as distributed RAM, enabling efficient implementation of small memory arrays, FIFOs, and other storage structures without consuming external memory resources.
Input/Output Specifications
The 192 user I/O pins provide extensive connectivity options for interfacing with external components. These programmable I/O blocks support multiple voltage standards and can be configured for various drive strengths, making the device compatible with a wide range of system requirements.
Performance Characteristics
Speed and Timing
The -5 speed grade designation indicates standard performance characteristics suitable for most commercial applications. The device supports system clock frequencies appropriate for telecommunications, industrial control, and consumer electronics applications.
Power Consumption Profile
| Power Specification |
Description |
| Core Voltage |
3.3V nominal |
| I/O Voltage |
Programmable (2.5V to 5V tolerance) |
| Power-Down Mode |
Available for low-power applications |
| Dynamic Power |
Dependent on design utilization |
XCS30XL-5PQ240C Application Areas
Industrial Automation and Control
The robust design and reliable performance make the XCS30XL-5PQ240C suitable for industrial control systems, motor controllers, and factory automation equipment.
Telecommunications Equipment
With sufficient logic resources and I/O capabilities, this FPGA excels in communication protocols, signal processing, and interface bridging applications.
Consumer Electronics
Cost-effective programmable logic makes this device ideal for consumer products requiring custom digital logic, including audio/video processing and gaming peripherals.
Embedded Systems
The device serves as an excellent co-processor or system controller in embedded applications requiring custom logic functions alongside microcontrollers.
Design and Development Advantages
Programmability Benefits
Unlike fixed-function ASICs, the XCS30XL-5PQ240C can be reconfigured multiple times, allowing for design iterations, bug fixes, and feature updates without hardware changes.
Integration Density
With 30,000 system gates, designers can integrate multiple discrete logic components into a single device, reducing board space, component count, and overall system cost.
Development Tools Support
Full compatibility with AMD’s (Xilinx) development tools enables efficient design entry, simulation, synthesis, and implementation workflows.
Comparison with Related Devices
Spartan-XL Family Positioning
| Device |
Logic Cells |
System Gates |
CLB Array |
User I/O |
| XCS20XL |
784 |
20,000 |
20 x 20 |
176 |
| XCS30XL |
1,368 |
30,000 |
24 x 24 |
192 |
| XCS40XL |
1,862 |
40,000 |
28 x 28 |
224 |
Configuration and Programming
Configuration Methods
The XCS30XL-5PQ240C supports multiple configuration modes including:
- Master Serial Mode
- Slave Serial Mode
- Boundary Scan (JTAG)
- SelectMAP Mode
Configuration Memory
The device uses SRAM-based configuration, requiring external non-volatile memory or a configuration controller to load the design at power-up.
Quality and Reliability Features
Built-In Testing Capabilities
The integrated boundary scan (JTAG) interface enables comprehensive testing of board-level interconnects and device functionality.
Manufacturing Standards
Manufactured to rigorous quality standards, ensuring consistent performance across production lots.
Package and Mounting Information
PQFP-240 Package Details
| Package Feature |
Specification |
| Body Size |
32mm x 32mm nominal |
| Lead Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Lead Count |
240 leads |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount |
| Package Height |
Low-profile design |
PCB Design Considerations
The 0.5mm pitch requires careful PCB layout with appropriate trace routing and via placement for reliable manufacturing and signal integrity.
Best Practices for Using XCS30XL-5PQ240C
Design Guidelines
- Utilize design constraint files for optimal timing closure
- Implement proper clock distribution networks
- Follow recommended power supply decoupling practices
- Consider thermal management in high-utilization designs
- Use synchronous design methodologies for reliability
Power Supply Requirements
Provide clean, well-regulated 3.3V power with adequate decoupling capacitors placed close to device pins. Multiple power and ground pins enable effective power distribution.
Why Choose the XCS30XL-5PQ240C
Cost-Effective Solution
The Spartan-XL family offers exceptional value for applications requiring moderate logic density without premium performance requirements.
Proven Technology
As a mature product from a leading FPGA manufacturer, the XCS30XL-5PQ240C provides reliable operation with extensive documentation and design support.
Flexible Implementation
The combination of logic resources, I/O count, and on-chip memory enables implementation of diverse digital functions in a single device.
Ordering Information and Availability
The XCS30XL-5PQ240C is available through authorized distributors and electronic component suppliers. When ordering, verify the complete part number including speed grade and package type to ensure compatibility with your design requirements.
Technical Support and Resources
For comprehensive technical information, designers should consult the official Spartan-XL datasheet (DS060) and application notes. AMD provides extensive documentation, design examples, and development tools through their technical support channels.
Related Products and Migration Paths
Designers considering the XCS30XL-5PQ240C may also evaluate other devices in the Spartan family or modern equivalents with enhanced features and performance. For applications requiring higher gate counts, the XCS40XL series offers increased resources in similar package options.
Conclusion: XCS30XL-5PQ240C FPGA Solution
The XCS30XL-5PQ240C represents a proven FPGA solution combining adequate logic resources, flexible I/O options, and cost-effective programmability. Whether you’re designing industrial equipment, telecommunications systems, or embedded controllers, this device provides the capabilities needed to implement custom digital logic functions reliably and efficiently.
For engineers seeking a dependable Xilinx FPGA solution with 30,000 gates of programmable logic, the XCS30XL-5PQ240C delivers exceptional value and performance in a compact 240-pin PQFP package.
