Product Overview: AMD Xilinx XCS40XL-4PQG240C Field Programmable Gate Array
The XCS40XL-4PQG240C is a powerful field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from AMD Xilinx’s renowned Spartan-XL family, designed to deliver exceptional performance for high-volume production applications. This versatile FPGA solution combines robust functionality with cost-effective implementation, making it an ideal choice for ASIC replacement projects and embedded system designs requiring up to 40,000 system gates.
As part of the Xilinx FPGA portfolio, the XCS40XL-4PQG240C represents a mature, proven technology that continues to serve critical applications in industrial automation, telecommunications, and consumer electronics.
Key Technical Specifications
Core Architecture Features
| Specification |
Value |
| System Gates |
40,000 gates |
| Logic Cells |
1,862 cells |
| Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) |
784 CLBs |
| Maximum Frequency |
217 MHz |
| Operating Voltage |
3.3V |
| I/O Pins |
192 user I/O |
| Package Type |
240-Pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| Speed Grade |
-4 (Commercial grade) |
Package and Physical Characteristics
| Feature |
Details |
| Package Code |
PQG240C / PQFP240 |
| Pin Count |
240 pins |
| Package Material |
Plastic encapsulation |
| Mounting Type |
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) |
| Environmental Compliance |
RoHS compliant (Lead-free) |
Advanced FPGA Architecture and Performance
Programmable Logic Resources
The XCS40XL-4PQG240C features a sophisticated architecture built around 784 configurable logic blocks, providing designers with extensive flexibility for implementing complex digital logic circuits. Each CLB contains programmable lookup tables (LUTs), flip-flops, and routing resources that enable efficient implementation of both combinational and sequential logic functions.
High-Speed Operation Capabilities
With a maximum operating frequency of 217 MHz, this Spartan-XL FPGA delivers impressive performance for time-critical applications. The -4 speed grade indicates optimized timing characteristics suitable for demanding industrial and commercial applications requiring reliable high-speed operation.
Comprehensive I/O Configuration
The 192 user-configurable I/O pins provide extensive connectivity options, supporting multiple I/O standards and voltage levels. This flexibility enables seamless integration with various peripheral devices, memory interfaces, and communication protocols commonly found in embedded systems.
Application Areas and Use Cases
Industrial Automation and Control Systems
The XCS40XL-4PQG240C excels in industrial control applications where reliable performance and programmability are essential. Common implementations include:
- Motor drive controllers and inverters
- PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) systems
- Industrial communication protocol converters
- Sensor interface and data acquisition systems
- Real-time process control applications
Enterprise and Data Center Applications
This FPGA provides the computational flexibility needed for:
- Network switching and routing acceleration
- Protocol conversion and bridging
- Data center infrastructure management
- Server I/O expansion and customization
- Enterprise communication systems
Consumer Electronics and Personal Devices
The cost-effective nature of the Spartan-XL family makes it suitable for:
- Tablet and mobile device controllers
- Display interface management
- Audio/video processing systems
- Gaming console peripherals
- IoT edge computing devices
Design Tools and Development Support
JTAG Programming and Debugging
The XCS40XL-4PQG240C incorporates full IEEE Standard 1149.1/1532 boundary-scan (JTAG) support, enabling:
- In-system programming capabilities
- Real-time debugging and testing
- Production programming and verification
- Prototyping and development flexibility
Software Development Environment
Engineers can leverage Xilinx’s comprehensive development tools for designing with the XCS40XL-4PQG240C:
- ISE Design Suite for legacy Spartan-XL development
- Schematic and HDL-based design entry
- Comprehensive simulation and verification tools
- Timing analysis and optimization utilities
- Configuration file generation and management
Quality and Reliability Standards
Manufacturing and Testing
All XCS40XL-4PQG240C units undergo rigorous quality control processes:
- 100% functional testing before shipment
- Electrical parameter verification
- Visual inspection for package integrity
- ESD protection during handling and shipping
- Anti-static packaging for component protection
Compliance and Certifications
| Standard |
Status |
| RoHS Compliance |
Lead-free, environmentally compliant |
| REACH Compliance |
Meets EU chemical regulations |
| ECCN Code |
EAR99 (Export control classification) |
| Quality Grade |
Commercial temperature range |
Comparison with Related Spartan-XL Family Members
Package Variants
| Part Number |
Package |
Pins |
I/O Count |
| XCS40XL-4PQ208C |
PQFP |
208 |
176 |
| XCS40XL-4PQG240C |
PQFP |
240 |
192 |
| XCS40XL-4BG256C |
BGA |
256 |
205 |
| XCS40XL-4CS280C |
CS280 |
280 |
224 |
Speed Grade Options
The XCS40XL family offers multiple speed grades to match application requirements:
- -3 Speed Grade: Standard performance
- -4 Speed Grade: Enhanced performance (this device)
- -5 Speed Grade: Maximum performance
Procurement and Supply Chain Information
Product Availability
The XCS40XL-4PQG240C is available through authorized distributors worldwide, including:
- DigiKey Electronics
- Global semiconductor distributors
- Authorized Xilinx partners
- Electronic component suppliers
Packaging and Shipping
Components are shipped with comprehensive protection:
- Anti-static bags with buried metal construction
- Faraday cage shielding for ESD protection
- 40% light transparency for easy identification
- Clearly labeled with part number, brand, and quantity
- Secure packaging for global express delivery
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation
Engineers can access comprehensive technical resources:
- Complete datasheet with electrical specifications
- Application notes and design guides
- Reference designs and example projects
- Configuration and programming guides
- PCB layout recommendations
Design Assistance
Technical support is available for:
- Pinout configuration and assignment
- Timing constraint development
- Power supply design guidance
- PCB layout best practices
- Troubleshooting and debugging assistance
FPGA vs ASIC Advantages
Why Choose the XCS40XL-4PQG240C Over ASICs
| Advantage |
Benefit |
| No NRE Costs |
Eliminate expensive mask and tooling fees |
| Rapid Time-to-Market |
Program and deploy in days, not months |
| Design Flexibility |
Update and modify designs after production |
| Lower Volume Economics |
Cost-effective for production runs of any size |
| Risk Mitigation |
Avoid silicon respins and manufacturing delays |
Power Management and Thermal Considerations
Operating Specifications
The XCS40XL-4PQG240C requires careful attention to power delivery:
- Core Voltage: 3.3V ± 5%
- I/O Voltage: 3.3V (with support for multiple standards)
- Power Consumption: Varies with design utilization
- Thermal Management: Standard heat dissipation methods
Design Recommendations
For optimal performance and reliability:
- Implement proper power supply decoupling
- Use adequate PCB ground planes
- Consider thermal simulation for high-utilization designs
- Follow Xilinx power distribution guidelines
- Monitor junction temperature in production
Legacy Support and Long-Term Availability
Product Lifecycle Status
While the Spartan-XL family is considered a mature product line, the XCS40XL-4PQG240C continues to be available for:
- Maintenance of existing designs
- Legacy system support and upgrades
- Cost-sensitive volume production
- Proven reliability requirements
Migration Path Considerations
For new designs, engineers should evaluate:
- Current Xilinx Spartan-7 family for enhanced features
- Artix-7 series for higher performance requirements
- Modern 7 Series FPGAs with advanced capabilities
- Design portability options for future scalability
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between XCS40XL-4PQG240C and XCS40XL-5PQG240C?
The primary difference is the speed grade: -4 offers enhanced performance while -5 provides maximum speed capabilities. The -4 grade typically offers the best balance of performance and cost.
Is the XCS40XL-4PQG240C suitable for new designs?
While classified as a mature product, it remains suitable for cost-sensitive applications and legacy system support. However, modern Spartan-7 or Artix-7 families are recommended for new high-performance designs.
What programming tools are required?
The device requires Xilinx ISE Design Suite for development and a JTAG programmer for configuration. Standard programming cables like Xilinx Platform Cable are compatible.
What is the operating temperature range?
The “C” designation indicates commercial temperature range: 0°C to +85°C junction temperature. Industrial and extended temperature variants may also be available.
Ordering Information and Part Number Decoding
Part Number Breakdown: XCS40XL-4PQG240C
- XC: Xilinx Commercial FPGA
- S40: Spartan-40 (40K gates)
- XL: Extended Spartan-XL family
- -4: Speed grade (-4 performance)
- PQ: Plastic Quad package
- G240: 240-pin package with enhanced features
- C: Commercial temperature grade
Conclusion: Proven FPGA Technology for Reliable Applications
The XCS40XL-4PQG240C represents a mature, cost-effective FPGA solution that continues to serve critical applications across multiple industries. With 40,000 system gates, 192 I/O pins, and 217 MHz performance, this device provides the perfect balance of functionality and affordability for medium-complexity digital designs.
Whether you’re maintaining legacy systems, developing cost-sensitive consumer products, or implementing industrial control solutions, the XCS40XL-4PQG240C offers proven reliability backed by decades of field experience. Its comprehensive feature set, including JTAG programming support, flexible I/O configuration, and robust architecture, makes it an excellent choice for engineers seeking dependable FPGA performance.
For more information about integrating Xilinx FPGAs into your next project, explore our comprehensive Xilinx FPGA resource center.
