The XCV300E-8PQ240C is a cutting-edge field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from Xilinx’s renowned Virtex-E family, designed to deliver exceptional performance and flexibility for complex digital designs. This powerful programmable logic device combines high-speed processing capabilities with advanced 0.18µm CMOS technology, making it an ideal solution for telecommunications, industrial automation, aerospace, and high-speed digital signal processing applications.
Product Overview: XCV300E-8PQ240C FPGA Specifications
The XCV300E-8PQ240C represents Xilinx’s commitment to providing high-density, high-performance Xilinx FPGA solutions. Built on the proven Virtex-E architecture, this FPGA delivers robust programmable logic resources in a compact 240-pin PQFP package, making it suitable for space-constrained applications without compromising on functionality.
Key Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Part Number |
XCV300E-8PQ240C |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD) |
| Product Family |
Virtex-E 1.8V FPGAs |
| Logic Gates |
82,944 gates |
| Logic Cells |
6,912 cells |
| Maximum Frequency |
416 MHz |
| Package Type |
240-Pin PQFP (Plastic Quad Flat Pack) |
| I/O Pins |
158 programmable I/O |
| Supply Voltage |
1.8V |
| Process Technology |
0.18µm CMOS |
| Speed Grade |
-8 (high performance) |
| Operating Temperature |
Commercial (0°C to +85°C) |
Core Features and Capabilities
Advanced Virtex-E Architecture
The XCV300E-8PQ240C leverages Xilinx’s optimized Virtex-E architecture, featuring:
- High Logic Density: With 82,944 system gates and 6,912 logic cells, this FPGA provides ample resources for complex digital designs
- Flexible Interconnect: Six-layer metal interconnect structure ensures optimal signal routing and minimal propagation delays
- Enhanced Performance: Speed grade -8 designation indicates superior timing characteristics for demanding applications
- Low Power Operation: 1.8V core voltage reduces power consumption while maintaining high performance
Programmable I/O Resources
| I/O Feature |
Specification |
| Total User I/O |
158 pins |
| I/O Standards Support |
LVTTL, LVCMOS, PCI, GTL, GTL+, HSTL, SSTL |
| Differential I/O Pairs |
Multiple pairs available |
| Slew Rate Control |
Programmable per pin |
| Input Delay |
Individually programmable |
| Output Drive Strength |
Configurable (2mA to 24mA) |
Application Areas and Use Cases
Telecommunications and Networking
The XCV300E-8PQ240C excels in high-speed communication applications:
- Protocol bridging and conversion
- Network packet processing
- Digital signal processing for wireless base stations
- Software-defined radio (SDR) implementations
- High-speed serial interfaces
Industrial Automation and Control
Perfect for industrial environments requiring:
- Real-time control systems
- Motor control and drive systems
- Machine vision processing
- Industrial networking protocols (EtherCAT, PROFINET)
- Safety-critical applications
Aerospace and Defense
Trusted in mission-critical applications:
- Radar signal processing
- Avionics systems
- Secure communications
- Navigation systems
- Electronic warfare equipment
Memory and Storage Architecture
On-Chip Memory Resources
| Memory Type |
Capacity |
Configuration |
| Block RAM |
Multiple 4K-bit blocks |
Dual-port configuration |
| Distributed RAM |
Via LUTs |
Flexible sizing |
| FIFO Buffers |
Configurable depth |
Synchronous/Asynchronous |
The embedded memory blocks can be configured as:
- Single-port RAM
- Dual-port RAM
- FIFO buffers
- ROM for lookup tables
Performance Characteristics
Speed and Timing
The -8 speed grade designation indicates:
- System Clock Frequency: Up to 416 MHz for internal logic
- I/O Performance: High-speed interfaces supporting various standards
- Propagation Delay: Optimized routing for minimal signal delays
- Setup and Hold Times: Tightly controlled for reliable operation
Power Consumption Profile
| Operating Mode |
Typical Power |
Notes |
| Active (Full Load) |
Varies by design |
Depends on utilization |
| Standby |
Low μW range |
Clock gating enabled |
| Configuration |
Minimal |
During FPGA programming |
Design Tools and Development Support
Compatible Software
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite: Full design entry, synthesis, and implementation
- Vivado Design Suite: Modern tool flow (for migration paths)
- Third-Party Tools: Support for Synplify, Precision RTL, and others
Programming and Configuration
| Configuration Method |
Interface |
Speed |
| JTAG |
4-wire interface |
Standard IEEE 1149.1 |
| Master Serial |
Xilinx PROM |
Fast configuration |
| Slave Serial |
External controller |
Flexible timing |
| SelectMAP |
Parallel interface |
High-speed configuration |
Package Information: 240-Pin PQFP
Physical Dimensions
The XCV300E-8PQ240C comes in a robust PQFP package:
- Package Style: Plastic Quad Flat Pack
- Total Pins: 240
- Pin Pitch: 0.5mm
- Body Size: 32mm × 32mm (typical)
- Height: Low-profile design
- Mounting: Surface mount technology (SMT)
Thermal Management
| Thermal Parameter |
Value |
Unit |
| θJA (Junction to Ambient) |
~35 |
°C/W |
| θJC (Junction to Case) |
~10 |
°C/W |
| Maximum Junction Temp |
125 |
°C |
Design Considerations and Best Practices
PCB Layout Guidelines
When designing with the XCV300E-8PQ240C:
- Power Distribution: Implement proper power plane design with adequate decoupling
- Signal Integrity: Maintain controlled impedance for high-speed signals
- Thermal Management: Ensure adequate airflow and heat dissipation
- Configuration Pins: Follow Xilinx guidelines for mode pin connections
Recommended Decoupling
| Capacitor Type |
Quantity |
Placement |
| 0.1µF Ceramic |
15-20 per bank |
Close to FPGA pins |
| 10µF Tantalum |
2-3 per supply |
Near FPGA |
| 100µF Electrolytic |
1-2 |
Power entry point |
Competitive Advantages
Why Choose XCV300E-8PQ240C?
- Proven Architecture: Based on mature Virtex-E technology with extensive field deployment
- Cost-Effective: Optimal balance of features and pricing for mid-range applications
- Long-Term Availability: Supported by AMD (Xilinx) with reliable supply chain
- Extensive IP Library: Access to thousands of pre-verified IP cores
- Design Security: Built-in bitstream encryption capabilities
Comparison with Alternatives
| Feature |
XCV300E-8PQ240C |
Competing FPGAs |
| Logic Density |
82,944 gates |
Comparable |
| Speed Grade |
-8 (fastest) |
Similar options |
| I/O Count |
158 pins |
Industry standard |
| Voltage |
1.8V (low power) |
Often 2.5V or 3.3V |
| Package Size |
Compact PQFP |
Various options |
Quality and Reliability
Manufacturing Standards
- RoHS Compliant: Lead-free manufacturing process
- Quality Grade: Industrial commercial grade
- Reliability Testing: HTOL, temperature cycling, moisture sensitivity
- ESD Protection: Built-in protection on all I/O pins
Expected Lifespan
Under normal operating conditions:
- MTBF: Exceeds 100,000 hours
- Configuration Cycles: Unlimited reprogramming
- Data Retention: 20+ years for configuration memory
Getting Started with XCV300E-8PQ240C
Essential Resources
- Official Datasheet: Complete electrical and timing specifications
- User Guides: Comprehensive design documentation
- Application Notes: Real-world implementation examples
- Reference Designs: Pre-built projects for common applications
- Technical Support: Access to Xilinx forums and FAE support
Development Kit Recommendations
For prototyping and evaluation:
- Xilinx evaluation boards featuring Virtex-E devices
- Third-party development platforms with XCV300E support
- Custom PCB design services for production implementations
Ordering Information and Availability
Part Number Breakdown
XCV300E-8PQ240C decoding:
- XC: Xilinx commercial FPGA
- V300E: Virtex-E 300K gates
- -8: Speed grade (fastest)
- PQ240: Package type (240-pin PQFP)
- C: Commercial temperature range
Procurement Considerations
When sourcing the XCV300E-8PQ240C:
- Verify authentic Xilinx/AMD distribution channels
- Check date codes for recent manufacturing
- Confirm RoHS compliance requirements
- Consider minimum order quantities
- Review lead times for production volumes
Technical Support and Resources
Documentation Library
Access comprehensive technical resources:
- Product Data Sheet: DS022 Virtex-E Family
- Packaging Specifications: Package dimensions and footprints
- PCB Design Guidelines: Layout best practices
- Configuration Guide: Programming and debug procedures
Community and Support
- Xilinx Community Forums: Peer-to-peer technical discussions
- AMD/Xilinx FAE: Field application engineer support
- Training Resources: Webinars, tutorials, and certification programs
- Third-Party IP Vendors: Extensive ecosystem of design IP
Conclusion: Powering Next-Generation Embedded Systems
The XCV300E-8PQ240C field-programmable gate array delivers an optimal combination of performance, flexibility, and value for demanding embedded applications. With its robust Virtex-E architecture, comprehensive I/O capabilities, and proven reliability, this FPGA enables engineers to implement sophisticated digital designs with confidence.
Whether you’re developing advanced telecommunications equipment, industrial control systems, or aerospace applications, the XCV300E-8PQ240C provides the programmable logic resources, speed, and flexibility needed to bring your innovative designs to market successfully.
