Introduction to XCS40-4PQ208C Field Programmable Gate Array
The XCS40-4PQ208C is a powerful Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from AMD Xilinx’s renowned Spartan series, designed to deliver exceptional performance for high-volume production applications. This versatile FPGA offers up to 40,000 system gates and represents an ideal solution for designers seeking cost-effective ASIC replacement without compromising on functionality or reliability.
As a member of the proven Spartan FPGA family, the XCS40-4PQ208C combines advanced programmable logic capabilities with competitive pricing, making it perfect for applications ranging from industrial automation to telecommunications infrastructure. Whether you’re developing communications equipment, wireless systems, or enterprise solutions, this Xilinx FPGA delivers the performance and flexibility your project demands.
Key Technical Specifications
Core Features Overview
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Part Number |
XCS40-4PQ208C |
| Manufacturer |
AMD Xilinx (formerly Xilinx Inc.) |
| FPGA Family |
Spartan Series |
| System Gates |
40,000 Gates |
| Logic Elements/Cells |
1,862 Cells |
| Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) |
784 CLBs |
| User I/O Pins |
169 I/O |
| Operating Frequency |
Up to 217 MHz |
| Supply Voltage |
5V tolerant I/O |
| Package Type |
208-Pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount (SMD) |
| Operating Temperature Range |
Commercial (0°C to +70°C) |
| Speed Grade |
-4 (Standard Performance) |
Memory and Logic Resources
| Resource Type |
Capacity |
| Total RAM Bits |
On-chip distributed RAM |
| Logic Cells |
1,862 Logic Cells |
| Configurable Logic Blocks |
784 CLBs |
| Maximum Gates |
40,000 System Gates |
| Function Generators |
3,136 Function Generators |
Product Architecture and Design Features
Advanced FPGA Technology
The XCS40-4PQ208C leverages mature CMOS technology to provide a robust programmable logic solution. This FPGA features a hierarchical architecture with distributed RAM, making it ideal for designs requiring flexible memory allocation and high-speed data processing.
Package Details and Pin Configuration
| Package Attribute |
Details |
| Package Code |
PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Total Pin Count |
208 Pins |
| Lead Pitch |
0.5mm |
| Body Size |
28mm x 28mm (typical) |
| Mounting Technology |
Surface Mount Device (SMD) |
| RoHS Compliance |
Lead-free options available |
The 208-pin PQFP package provides excellent thermal performance while maintaining a compact footprint suitable for space-constrained PCB designs. With 169 user-configurable I/O pins, designers have ample connectivity options for complex interface requirements.
Performance Characteristics
Speed and Timing Specifications
| Performance Metric |
Specification |
| Maximum Operating Frequency |
217 MHz |
| Speed Grade |
-4 (Commercial) |
| Internal Clock Distribution |
Low-skew global clock network |
| Propagation Delay |
Optimized for high-speed operation |
| Setup/Hold Times |
Industry-leading timing margins |
Power Consumption Profile
The XCS40-4PQ208C is engineered for balanced power consumption, offering:
- Static Power: Low standby current consumption
- Dynamic Power: Scales with design utilization and frequency
- I/O Standards Support: Compatible with multiple voltage standards for flexible interfacing
Application Areas and Use Cases
Primary Applications
| Industry Sector |
Typical Applications |
| Communications |
Protocol converters, data communication interfaces, modems |
| Industrial Automation |
PLC systems, motor control, sensor interfaces, factory automation |
| Consumer Electronics |
Set-top boxes, gaming peripherals, multimedia devices |
| Telecommunications |
Wireless infrastructure, base stations, signal processing |
| Enterprise Systems |
Network switches, routers, server I/O expansion |
| Medical Devices |
Diagnostic equipment, patient monitoring systems |
| Automotive |
In-vehicle networking, dashboard controllers |
Design Advantages
The XCS40-4PQ208C offers several compelling advantages for system designers:
- Cost-Effective ASIC Alternative: Eliminates NRE costs and long development cycles associated with traditional ASICs
- Rapid Prototyping: In-system programmability enables quick design iterations
- Future-Proof Designs: Field-upgradeable logic allows feature additions and bug fixes post-deployment
- Proven Reliability: Backed by Xilinx’s decades of FPGA manufacturing excellence
- Rich IP Core Ecosystem: Access to pre-verified IP blocks accelerates development
Development Tools and Design Support
Compatible Design Software
| Tool Category |
Supported Tools |
| Design Entry |
Xilinx ISE Design Suite, Schematic capture, HDL (VHDL/Verilog) |
| Synthesis |
XST (Xilinx Synthesis Technology) |
| Simulation |
ModelSim, ISim, third-party simulators |
| Implementation |
Place and Route tools integrated in ISE |
| Programming |
Xilinx iMPACT, Platform Cable USB |
Configuration and Programming
The XCS40-4PQ208C supports multiple configuration modes:
- Boundary-Scan (JTAG): For in-system programming and debugging
- Master Serial Mode: Using external PROM devices
- Slave Serial Mode: Configuration by external controller
- SelectMAP: Parallel configuration interface
Ordering Information and Package Options
Part Number Breakdown
XCS40-4PQ208C decodes as:
- XCS: Xilinx Spartan series
- 40: 40,000 system gates
- -4: Speed grade (commercial temperature)
- PQ208: 208-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack
- C: Commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C)
Related Part Numbers
| Part Number |
Key Difference |
| XCS40-3PQ208C |
Speed grade -3 (faster) |
| XCS40-4VQ100C |
100-pin VQFP package |
| XCS40XL-4PQ208C |
Extended low-power variant |
| XCS40-4PQ208I |
Industrial temperature range |
Competitive Advantages and Market Position
Why Choose XCS40-4PQ208C?
- Proven Track Record: Deployed in millions of devices worldwide
- Supply Chain Stability: Available through authorized distributors like DigiKey
- Comprehensive Documentation: Full datasheets, application notes, and reference designs
- Technical Support: Access to Xilinx/AMD technical resources and community forums
- Cost-Optimized Solution: Competitive pricing for volume production
Comparison with Alternative Solutions
| Feature |
XCS40-4PQ208C |
Typical ASIC |
CPLD |
| Development Time |
Weeks |
6-12 months |
Weeks |
| NRE Costs |
None |
$100K-$1M+ |
None |
| Design Flexibility |
High |
Fixed |
Medium |
| Gate Capacity |
40,000 gates |
Unlimited |
Limited (few thousand) |
| Reprogrammability |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Quality and Compliance Standards
The XCS40-4PQ208C meets rigorous quality standards:
- ISO 9001 Certified Manufacturing
- RoHS Compliant Options Available
- REACH Compliance
- Automotive-grade versions available (for automotive applications)
- Military/Aerospace variants (extended screening options)
Technical Resources and Documentation
Engineers working with the XCS40-4PQ208C have access to comprehensive resources:
- Complete datasheet with DC/AC characteristics
- Application notes for specific design scenarios
- Reference designs and evaluation boards
- Online design tools and calculators
- Technical forum support
- Training webinars and video tutorials
Procurement and Availability
The XCS40-4PQ208C is readily available through authorized distribution channels including:
- DigiKey Electronics: Immediate stock availability, competitive pricing
- Official AMD/Xilinx Distribution: Direct purchase options
- Authorized Regional Distributors: Global supply chain support
Packaging Options for Purchase
| Packaging Type |
Quantity |
Application |
| Tube |
27 units |
Prototyping, low-volume |
| Tray |
90 units |
Medium-volume production |
| Tape and Reel |
500+ units |
High-volume automated assembly |
Design Considerations and Best Practices
PCB Layout Guidelines
When designing with the XCS40-4PQ208C:
- Maintain proper power supply decoupling with 0.1µF and 10µF capacitors
- Use dedicated power and ground planes for noise reduction
- Follow Xilinx PCB design guidelines for signal integrity
- Implement proper thermal management (heatsinks if required)
- Reserve JTAG pins for programming and debugging access
Thermal Management
| Thermal Parameter |
Typical Value |
| Junction Temperature (Max) |
+125°C |
| Thermal Resistance (θJA) |
Varies by airflow and board design |
| Power Dissipation |
Design-dependent, typically 0.5W-2W |
Conclusion: Your Ideal FPGA Solution
The XCS40-4PQ208C represents an outstanding choice for engineers seeking a reliable, cost-effective, and high-performance FPGA solution. With its 40,000 gates, 169 I/O pins, and proven Spartan architecture, this device excels in applications ranging from industrial control to telecommunications infrastructure.
Whether you’re replacing aging ASIC designs, developing new products, or upgrading existing systems, the XCS40-4PQ208C offers the perfect balance of functionality, flexibility, and value. Its mature ecosystem, comprehensive tool support, and wide availability make it an ideal choice for both prototype development and volume production.
Ready to start your next FPGA project? The XCS40-4PQ208C provides the programmable logic foundation you need to bring innovative products to market faster and more cost-effectively than ever before.
