Overview of the XQ7Z020-CL484 All Programmable SoC
The XQ7Z020-CL484 is a defense-grade system-on-chip (SoC) from AMD (formerly Xilinx) that combines a feature-rich dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 processor with 28nm programmable logic in a single 484-pin CSPBGA package. This aerospace and defense-qualified device delivers exceptional performance for mission-critical applications requiring the highest reliability standards.
As part of the Zynq-7000Q family, the XQ7Z020-CL484 integrates processing system capabilities with FPGA flexibility, making it ideal for extreme environment applications in aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors.
Key Features and Specifications
Processor System Specifications
| Feature |
Specification |
| Processor |
Dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 MPCore with CoreSight |
| Clock Speed |
Up to 766 MHz (per core) |
| Architecture |
32-bit RISC processor |
| Cache |
32KB L1 instruction, 32KB L1 data per core, 512KB L2 unified |
| Floating Point |
NEON & Single/Double Precision FPU |
Programmable Logic Specifications
| Feature |
Specification |
| FPGA Family |
Artix-7 based programmable logic |
| Logic Cells |
85,000 logic cells |
| DSP Slices |
220 DSP48E1 slices |
| Block RAM |
4.9 Mb total block RAM |
| Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) |
13,300 CLBs |
| Process Technology |
28nm CMOS |
Package and Environmental Specifications
| Parameter |
Details |
| Package Type |
484-pin CSPBGA (Chip Scale Ball Grid Array) |
| Package Code |
CL484 |
| Pitch |
0.8mm |
| Package Dimensions |
19mm × 19mm |
| Grade |
XQ (Defense/Aerospace Grade) |
| Speed Grade |
-1 (Commercial temperature range variant available) |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°C to +125°C (Industrial Extended) |
| ECCN Code |
3A991.D |
XQ7Z020-CL484 Architecture and Design
Processing System (PS) Architecture
The XQ7Z020-CL484 features a comprehensive processing system that includes:
- Dual ARM Cortex-A9 Cores: Each core operates independently at up to 766MHz with full memory coherency
- Memory Controllers: DDR3/DDR3L/DDR2/LPDDR2 controller supporting up to 1066 Mb/s data rates
- On-Chip Memory: 256KB on-chip RAM for low-latency operations
- DMA Controllers: Eight-channel DMA controller for efficient data movement
Programmable Logic (PL) Integration
The programmable logic section provides:
- 85K Logic Cells for custom digital logic implementation
- 220 DSP Slices optimized for signal processing and mathematical operations
- 4.9 Mb Block RAM for data buffering and storage
- High-speed connectivity between PS and PL via AXI interfaces
Peripheral Interfaces
| Interface Type |
Quantity/Details |
| USB |
2× USB 2.0 OTG controllers |
| Gigabit Ethernet |
2× 10/100/1000 Ethernet MAC |
| UART |
2× UART interfaces |
| CAN |
2× CAN 2.0B controllers |
| SPI |
2× SPI interfaces |
| I2C |
2× I2C master/slave controllers |
| SD/SDIO |
2× SD 2.0/SDIO 2.0/MMC 3.31 interfaces |
| GPIO |
Up to 54 multiplexed I/O (MIO) pins |
Applications for XQ7Z020-CL484
Aerospace and Defense Applications
The defense-grade qualification makes the XQ7Z020-CL484 perfect for:
- Avionics Systems: Flight control, navigation, and communication systems
- Radar and Signal Processing: Software-defined radio and advanced radar processing
- Secure Communications: Encrypted communication systems with hardware acceleration
- Military Vehicles: Rugged computing platforms for ground and naval vehicles
- Satellite Systems: On-board data processing for space applications
Industrial and Commercial Applications
Beyond defense, the XQ7Z020-CL484 excels in:
- Industrial Automation: Machine vision, motion control, and real-time processing
- Medical Imaging: High-performance image processing for diagnostic equipment
- Test and Measurement: Advanced instrumentation and data acquisition systems
- Broadcast Equipment: Professional video processing and routing
- Automotive Systems: ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) development
Performance Advantages of XQ7Z020-CL484
Superior Processing Power
The dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 architecture delivers:
- 1,533 CoreMark score (per core at 766MHz)
- Parallel processing capabilities for complex algorithms
- Hardware floating-point acceleration for scientific computing
- Low-latency response for real-time applications
Flexible FPGA Integration
| Advantage |
Benefit |
| Custom Hardware Acceleration |
Implement application-specific logic for 10-100× performance gains |
| Parallel Processing |
Execute multiple operations simultaneously in hardware |
| Low Power Consumption |
Optimize power usage through hardware/software partitioning |
| Future-Proof Design |
Reconfigure logic without hardware changes |
Enhanced Reliability Features
Defense-grade features include:
- Extended temperature range: -40°C to +125°C operation
- Enhanced screening: Additional testing for high-reliability applications
- Radiation tolerance: Designed for harsh environment operation
- Long-term availability: Extended product lifecycle support
Development Tools and Support
Xilinx Development Environment
Develop for the XQ7Z020-CL484 using:
- Vivado Design Suite: Complete FPGA design and implementation
- Vitis Unified Software Platform: Software development and debugging
- PetaLinux: Embedded Linux development framework
- Xilinx SDK: Legacy software development kit
Evaluation Boards and Kits
| Board |
Features |
| ZC702 Evaluation Kit |
Reference design platform with extensive peripherals |
| Custom Carrier Boards |
Application-specific development platforms |
| QEMU Emulation |
Software development before hardware availability |
XQ7Z020-CL484 vs. Commercial Variants
Comparison Table
| Feature |
XQ7Z020-CL484 (Defense) |
XC7Z020-CLG484 (Commercial) |
| Temperature Range |
-40°C to +125°C |
0°C to +85°C |
| Screening Level |
Enhanced/Military |
Standard |
| Qualification |
Aerospace/Defense |
Commercial |
| Traceability |
Full lot traceability |
Standard traceability |
| Pricing |
Premium |
Standard |
| Lead Time |
Extended |
Shorter |
Technical Resources for Xilinx FPGA Development
Access comprehensive resources for the XQ7Z020-CL484:
- Technical Reference Manual: Complete hardware specification (1,800+ pages)
- Datasheet: Electrical and timing specifications
- Package Files: Pin assignments and PCB layout guidelines
- Application Notes: Design best practices and reference designs
- Knowledge Base: Community support and troubleshooting guides
Ordering Information
Part Number Nomenclature
XQ7Z020-1CL484I breakdown:
- XQ: Defense-grade quality level
- 7Z020: Device type and size
- -1: Speed grade
- CL: Package type (CSPBGA)
- 484: Pin count
- I: Industrial temperature range (-40°C to +100°C)
Availability and Lead Time
| Parameter |
Details |
| Typical Lead Time |
12-16 weeks (defense-grade) |
| MOQ |
Contact distributor for minimum order quantities |
| Packaging |
Tray or tape and reel |
| RoHS Compliance |
RoHS compliant versions available |
Design Considerations
Power Supply Requirements
| Rail |
Voltage |
Typical Current |
| VCCINT |
1.0V |
2.5A |
| VCCAUX |
1.8V |
0.3A |
| VCCO |
1.2V to 3.3V |
Varies by I/O usage |
| VCC_PSDDR |
1.5V |
1.0A |
Thermal Management
Proper thermal design is critical:
- Junction Temperature: Maximum 125°C
- Thermal Resistance (θJA): 18.4°C/W (with airflow)
- Heat Sink Recommendations: Required for high-performance applications
- Thermal Monitoring: Built-in on-chip temperature sensor
Quality and Compliance
Certifications and Standards
The XQ7Z020-CL484 meets stringent requirements:
- MIL-STD-883: Military standard testing
- AS9100: Aerospace quality management
- ISO 9001: Quality management systems
- RoHS/REACH: Environmental compliance
- ITAR: Export control compliance for defense applications
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between XQ and XC variants?
The XQ7Z020 is defense-grade with enhanced screening, wider temperature range (-40°C to +125°C), and higher reliability testing compared to the commercial XC7Z020 variant.
Can I use commercial development tools with XQ7Z020-CL484?
Yes, the same Vivado Design Suite and Vitis platform support both commercial and defense-grade devices.
What is the typical power consumption?
Power consumption varies by application but typically ranges from 1.5W (idle) to 5W (full utilization) depending on clock speeds and resource usage.
Is the XQ7Z020-CL484 suitable for space applications?
While defense-grade, consult AMD for specific radiation-hardened variants (XQR series) required for space applications.
What memory types are supported?
The device supports DDR3, DDR3L, DDR2, and LPDDR2 memory with speeds up to 1066 Mb/s.
Conclusion
The XQ7Z020-CL484 delivers unmatched performance for aerospace and defense applications requiring the fusion of ARM processing power with FPGA flexibility. Its defense-grade qualification, extensive peripheral set, and robust architecture make it the premier choice for mission-critical systems operating in extreme environments.
Whether you’re developing next-generation avionics, advanced radar systems, or high-reliability industrial equipment, the XQ7Z020-CL484 provides the processing power, flexibility, and reliability your application demands.
For more information on Xilinx FPGA solutions and to discuss your specific requirements, contact authorized AMD distributors or visit the official AMD Adaptive Computing website.
