The XC3S1400A-4FT256I is a powerful field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from Xilinx’s Spartan-3A family, designed to deliver exceptional performance for a wide range of digital signal processing and embedded system applications. This versatile FPGA combines high logic density with cost-effective pricing, making it an ideal choice for both commercial and industrial applications.
Product Specifications
The XC3S1400A-4FT256I features robust specifications that meet demanding application requirements:
Core Architecture:
- Logic Cells: 1,400,000 system gates
- Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs): 11,776 logic cells
- Block RAM: 576 Kbits total memory
- Dedicated Multipliers: 32 embedded 18×18 multipliers
- Maximum User I/O: 173 pins
Package and Performance:
- Package Type: FT256 (Fine-Pitch Ball Grid Array)
- Speed Grade: -4 (high-performance grade)
- Operating Temperature: Industrial range (-40ยฐC to +100ยฐC)
- Supply Voltage: Core 1.2V, I/O 1.2V to 3.3V
- Maximum Frequency: Up to 320 MHz
Advanced Features:
- Digital Clock Manager (DCM) for precise clock control
- IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary scan support
- SelectIO technology for flexible I/O standards
- Low-power consumption design
Pricing Information
The XC3S1400A-4FT256I offers competitive pricing in the mid-range FPGA market segment. Pricing varies based on order quantity and distribution channel:
- Single unit pricing: Contact authorized distributors
- Volume pricing: Available for quantities of 100+ units
- Educational pricing: Special rates available for academic institutions
- Long-term availability: Supported through Xilinx’s product longevity program
For current XC3S1400A-4FT256I pricing and availability, consult official Xilinx distributors or authorized electronics suppliers. Bulk pricing discounts are typically available for production quantities.
Documents & Media
Comprehensive technical documentation supports the XC3S1400A-4FT256I implementation:
Technical Documentation:
- Spartan-3A FPGA Family Data Sheet (DS529)
- XC3S1400A-4FT256I Product Brief
- Spartan-3A FPGA User Guide (UG331)
- Package thermal and mechanical specifications
- Pin assignment and package drawings
Design Resources:
- ISE Design Suite compatibility information
- Vivado Design Suite migration guides
- Reference designs and application notes
- IBIS models for signal integrity analysis
- Power estimation spreadsheets
Development Tools:
- ISE WebPACK (free development environment)
- ChipScope Pro debugging tools
- IP Core libraries and generators
- Constraint file templates
Related Resources
The XC3S1400A-4FT256I integrates seamlessly with Xilinx’s comprehensive ecosystem:
Development Boards:
- Spartan-3A DSP Video Starter Kit
- Spartan-3A Evaluation Platform
- Third-party development modules featuring XC3S1400A-4FT256I
Companion ICs:
- Configuration memory devices (Platform Flash)
- Clock generation and distribution ICs
- Power management solutions
- Interface transceivers
Software Tools:
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite (legacy support)
- Vivado Design Suite (for migration paths)
- SDK (Software Development Kit)
- System Generator for DSP applications
IP Cores:
- MicroBlaze soft processor
- Digital signal processing cores
- Communication protocol stacks
- Memory controllers and interfaces
Environmental & Export Classifications
The XC3S1400A-4FT256I meets stringent environmental and regulatory standards:
Environmental Compliance:
- RoHS compliant (lead-free manufacturing)
- REACH regulation compliance
- Conflict minerals reporting template available
- Green packaging initiatives
Quality Standards:
- Automotive AEC-Q100 qualified versions available
- ISO 9001:2015 manufacturing certification
- Military temperature grade options
- Extended lifecycle support
Export Classifications:
- Export Control Classification Number (ECCN): 3A001.a.7
- Country of Origin: Various (consult specific lot information)
- Export licensing requirements vary by destination
- Encryption capabilities subject to export regulations
Reliability Specifications:
- MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures): >1,000,000 hours
- Operating life: 20+ years under normal conditions
- Storage temperature: -65ยฐC to +150ยฐC
- Moisture sensitivity level: MSL-3
The XC3S1400A-4FT256I represents an excellent balance of performance, features, and cost-effectiveness for FPGA-based system designs. Its proven Spartan-3A architecture, comprehensive tool support, and long-term availability make it a reliable choice for both new designs and legacy system maintenance.
