The XC3S50A-VQG100 is a versatile field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from Xilinx’s renowned Spartan-3A family, designed to deliver exceptional performance and flexibility for a wide range of digital design applications. This compact yet powerful FPGA offers an ideal balance of functionality, cost-effectiveness, and energy efficiency, making it perfect for both prototyping and production environments.
Product Specifications
Core Architecture
The XC3S50A-VQG100 features a robust architecture built on proven Spartan-3A technology, delivering reliable performance across demanding applications.
Logic Resources:
- System gates: 50,000
- Logic cells: 1,584
- Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs): 198
- Maximum distributed RAM: 25 Kb
- Block RAM: 108 Kb (6 blocks of 18 Kb each)
I/O Capabilities:
- User I/O pins: 68
- Package type: 100-pin Very thin Quad Flat Pack (VQFP)
- Differential I/O pairs: 33
- Maximum I/O banks: 4
Clock Management:
- Digital Clock Managers (DCMs): 2
- Global clock networks: 8
- Maximum frequency: Up to 200+ MHz (design dependent)
Memory and Processing:
- Dedicated multipliers: 4 (18×18 bit)
- Maximum operating frequency: 326 MHz (multiplier)
- Configuration memory: SRAM-based
- Configuration time: Typically less than 50ms
Power and Operating Conditions:
- Core voltage: 1.2V ยฑ5%
- I/O voltage: 1.2V to 3.3V
- Operating temperature range: -40ยฐC to +100ยฐC (Commercial grade)
- Power consumption: Low-power design optimized for battery-operated applications
Pricing Information
The XC3S50A-VQG100 offers competitive pricing for its feature set, making it accessible for both educational projects and commercial applications. Pricing varies based on quantity, supplier, and current market conditions. For the most current pricing information and volume discounts, please contact authorized Xilinx distributors or check leading electronic component suppliers.
Typical Price Range:
- Single unit: $15-25 USD
- Volume pricing: Available for quantities of 100+ units
- Educational discounts: Often available through academic programs
Note: Prices are subject to change based on market conditions and availability. Contact suppliers for real-time quotations.
Documents & Media
Technical Documentation
- Datasheet: Complete electrical specifications and pin assignments
- User Guide: Comprehensive implementation guidelines and best practices
- Package Information: Detailed mechanical drawings and land patterns
- Speed Grade Files: Timing specifications for different performance grades
Development Resources
- Reference Designs: Sample projects demonstrating key features
- Application Notes: Specific implementation guidance for common use cases
- Design Constraints Files: Pre-configured timing and placement constraints
- Simulation Models: VHDL and Verilog behavioral models
Software Compatibility
- ISE Design Suite: Full support for design entry, synthesis, and implementation
- Vivado: Limited support (check compatibility matrix)
- Third-party tools: Compatible with various EDA tools through standard interfaces
Related Resources
Development Boards
Several development and evaluation boards feature the XC3S50A-VQG100, providing immediate hands-on experience:
- Spartan-3A starter kits
- Third-party evaluation boards
- Educational development platforms
Complementary Products
- XC3S200A-VQG100: Higher gate count option in same package
- XC3S50A-TQG144: Same die in larger package for more I/O
- Configuration devices: Platform Flash PROMs for stand-alone operation
Design Tools and IP
- MicroBlaze soft processor: Embedded processing capabilities
- IP cores: Pre-verified intellectual property for common functions
- ChipScope Pro: Integrated logic analyzer for debugging
Technical Support
- Online documentation portal
- Community forums and user groups
- Application engineering support
- Training courses and webinars
Environmental & Export Classifications
Environmental Compliance
The XC3S50A-VQG100 meets stringent environmental standards, ensuring responsible manufacturing and end-of-life handling.
RoHS Compliance:
- Fully RoHS compliant (lead-free)
- Halogen-free options available
- Meets European environmental regulations
Quality Standards:
- ISO 9001 certified manufacturing
- Automotive grade versions available (AEC-Q100)
- Industrial temperature range support
Export Classifications
Export Control:
- ECCN (Export Control Classification Number): 3A001.a.7
- Not subject to EAR99 restrictions for most applications
- Consult export regulations for specific destination countries
Compliance Certifications:
- FCC Part 15 (when properly implemented)
- CE marking support through design guidelines
- UL recognition available
Package and Shipping:
- MSL (Moisture Sensitivity Level): Level 3
- Lead-free and environmentally conscious packaging
- Anti-static handling requirements
The XC3S50A-VQG100 represents an excellent choice for designers seeking a reliable, cost-effective FPGA solution with proven performance characteristics. Its combination of logic resources, I/O flexibility, and comprehensive development support makes it suitable for applications ranging from digital signal processing to embedded control systems.
