The XCS30XL-5PQG240C is a powerful field-programmable gate array from AMD (formerly Xilinx), belonging to the renowned Spartan-XL family. This versatile FPGA delivers exceptional performance for embedded systems, digital signal processing, and industrial control applications where reliability and flexibility are paramount.

Product Overview

The XCS30XL-5PQG240C represents a mature and proven FPGA solution designed for applications requiring moderate logic density with excellent power efficiency. As part of the Spartan-XL series, this device offers designers a cost-effective platform for implementing complex digital logic in a compact form factor.

Key Features and Benefits

This Xilinx FPGA delivers robust performance characteristics that make it ideal for a wide range of applications:

• 30,000 system gates providing substantial logic capacity for complex designs
• 1,368 logic cells enabling flexible implementation of digital circuits
• Speed grade -5 offering optimized performance for demanding applications
• 3.3V operating voltage ensuring compatibility with standard logic families
• PQG240 package (240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack) for reliable PCB mounting
• Commercial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) for industrial environments

Technical Specifications

Core Architecture Specifications

Electrical Characteristics

Package Information

I/O Capabilities

Application Areas

Industrial Control Systems

The XCS30XL-5PQG240C excels in industrial automation environments where programmable logic is essential. Its robust design and commercial temperature rating make it suitable for factory automation controllers, process monitoring systems, and industrial communication interfaces.

Embedded Systems Development

This FPGA provides an ideal platform for embedded system designers who need to implement custom logic, peripheral interfaces, or co-processing functions alongside microcontrollers. The 30K gate capacity allows for substantial digital logic implementation while maintaining low power consumption.

Digital Signal Processing Applications

With 1,368 logic cells and high-speed operation capabilities, the XCS30XL-5PQG240C can implement various DSP algorithms including filtering, data compression, and signal transformation functions for audio, video, and communication applications.

Communications and Networking

The device supports implementation of custom communication protocols, data encryption/decryption engines, and high-speed interface bridging for telecommunications and networking equipment.

Performance Characteristics

Speed and Timing

The -5 speed grade designation indicates this device offers moderate performance characteristics suitable for most industrial and embedded applications. With maximum operating frequencies reaching 217 MHz for internal logic, the XCS30XL-5PQG240C can handle time-critical operations efficiently.

Logic Density Analysis

Design and Integration Considerations

Development Tools and Software

Designers working with the XCS30XL-5PQG240C utilize industry-standard FPGA development tools including:

• Xilinx ISE Design Suite for logic synthesis and implementation
• VHDL or Verilog HDL for design entry
• Timing analysis and constraint management tools
• JTAG programming and debugging interfaces

Pin Configuration and Routing

The 240-pin PQG package provides extensive I/O capabilities while maintaining a manageable footprint for PCB layout. The 0.5mm pin pitch requires careful PCB design with appropriate routing guidelines to ensure signal integrity and manufacturability.

Power Supply Design Requirements

Competitive Advantages

Cost-Effectiveness

The Spartan-XL family, including the XCS30XL-5PQG240C, represents excellent value for applications requiring moderate logic density without the cost premium of larger devices. This makes it particularly attractive for high-volume production environments.

Proven Reliability

As a mature product line, the Spartan-XL family has demonstrated long-term reliability in field deployments across various industries. The XCS30XL-5PQG240C benefits from years of manufacturing optimization and extensive characterization data.

Design Flexibility

The programmable nature of this FPGA allows for design modifications and updates throughout the product lifecycle, reducing time-to-market and enabling rapid prototyping of digital systems.

Quality and Compliance

Manufacturing Standards

The XCS30XL-5PQG240C is manufactured using proven semiconductor processes with rigorous quality control measures. Each device undergoes comprehensive testing to ensure conformance to published specifications.

Environmental Compliance

While specific RoHS and environmental compliance status should be verified with current manufacturer documentation, AMD/Xilinx maintains compliance with relevant international standards for electronic components.

Ordering and Availability

Part Number Breakdown

XCS30XL-5PQG240C breakdown:

• XCS30XL: Spartan-XL family, 30K gates
• -5: Speed grade designation
• PQG240: Package type (240-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack)
• C: Commercial temperature range

Package Handling and Storage

Proper ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) precautions must be observed when handling this device. Storage in moisture-sensitive protective packaging is recommended until the device is ready for board assembly.

Technical Support and Resources

Documentation Availability

Comprehensive technical documentation is available including:

• Complete datasheet with DC and AC specifications
• Programming and configuration guidelines
• Application notes for specific use cases
• Reference designs and example code

Design Assistance

Engineers can access technical support through AMD’s documentation portal and community forums for assistance with design challenges, troubleshooting, and optimization strategies.

Comparison with Related Products

Spartan-XL Family Alternatives

Implementation Best Practices

Design Optimization Tips

To maximize performance and resource utilization with the XCS30XL-5PQG240C:

1. Clock Management: Utilize global clock resources efficiently to minimize skew and improve timing closure
2. Resource Allocation: Balance logic utilization across CLBs to avoid local routing congestion
3. I/O Planning: Assign critical signals to optimal pin locations based on PCB routing requirements
4. Timing Constraints: Define comprehensive timing constraints to guide place-and-route optimization

Common Applications Architecture

The XCS30XL-5PQG240C excels in implementing:

• Custom peripheral controllers and interfaces
• Protocol converters and bridges
• State machine implementations for control logic
• Data path processing and transformation
• Glue logic for system integration

Thermal Management Considerations

Operating Temperature Characteristics

Heat Dissipation Guidelines

While the XCS30XL-5PQG240C features relatively low power consumption, proper PCB thermal design ensures reliable operation:

• Adequate copper plane area for heat spreading
• Thermal vias connecting to ground planes
• Appropriate airflow in enclosed systems
• Temperature monitoring in critical applications

Conclusion: Why Choose the XCS30XL-5PQG240C

The XCS30XL-5PQG240C represents a well-balanced FPGA solution for designers seeking proven technology, moderate logic density, and cost-effective implementation. Its 30,000 system gates and 1,368 logic cells provide sufficient resources for a wide range of industrial, embedded, and signal processing applications.

As part of the established Spartan-XL family, this device offers long-term availability, comprehensive documentation, and extensive community support. The commercial temperature range and 3.3V operation ensure compatibility with standard system designs, while the PQG240 package provides ample I/O resources in a manageable footprint.

For engineers developing new products or maintaining existing designs, the XCS30XL-5PQG240C delivers the reliability, flexibility, and performance needed for successful FPGA implementation in demanding applications.