Bottom Line: The XC3S100E-5TQG144C is a high-performance, cost-effective Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from AMD’s Spartan-3E family, designed for consumer electronics, digital signal processing, and embedded system applications requiring flexibility and excellent price-to-performance ratios.
1. Product Specifications
Core Features
The XC3S100E-5TQG144C is a versatile FPGA from the renowned Spartan-3E family, engineered to deliver exceptional performance for high-volume, cost-sensitive applications. This device combines advanced 90nm CMOS technology with comprehensive programmable logic capabilities.
Key Technical Specifications:
- Family: Spartan-3E FPGA
- System Gates: 100,000 gates
- Logic Cells: 2,160 cells
- Maximum Frequency: 657MHz
- Process Technology: 90nm CMOS
- Core Voltage: 1.2V ยฑ5% (1.14V to 1.26V)
- Package Type: 144-Pin TQFP EP (Thin Quad Flat Pack with Exposed Pad)
- Package Size: 20mm x 20mm
- I/O Pins: 108 user I/O pins
- Operating Temperature Range: 0ยฐC to +85ยฐC (Commercial grade)
- Speed Grade: -5 (highest performance)
Architecture Details:
- Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs): 240 CLBs arranged in 24 rows ร 10 columns
- Total Slices: 960 slices (4 slices per CLB)
- Block RAM: 15K bits of distributed RAM, 72K bits of block RAM
- Dedicated Multipliers: 4 embedded 18ร18 multipliers
- Digital Clock Manager (DCM): 2 DCMs for advanced clock management
- I/O Standards Support: LVCMOS, LVTTL, HSTL, SSTL, True LVDS, RSDS, mini-LVDS
Performance Characteristics
The XC3S100E-5TQG144C delivers impressive performance metrics that make it ideal for demanding digital applications. With its 657MHz maximum operating frequency and optimized architecture, this FPGA provides the computational power needed for real-time signal processing, protocol implementation, and custom computing solutions.
2. Price
Current Market Pricing
The XC3S100E-5TQG144C is competitively priced for volume applications, reflecting its position as a cost-effective solution in the Spartan-3E family. Pricing varies based on quantity, distributor, and market conditions.
Typical Price Range:
- Unit pricing typically ranges from $45-60 USD per piece for small quantities
- Volume pricing available for quantities of 100+ units
- Full tray quantity: 60 pieces per tray
Where to Buy:
- Authorized distributors: Mouser Electronics, DigiKey, Avnet, LCSC Electronics
- Direct from AMD/Xilinx for volume orders
- Regional distributors worldwide
Note: Prices are subject to change based on market conditions, availability, and order quantities. Contact authorized distributors for current pricing and availability.
3. Documents & Media
Official Documentation
Access comprehensive technical resources for the XC3S100E-5TQG144C to support your design and development process:
Essential Documents:
- Spartan-3E FPGA Family Datasheet – Complete technical specifications and electrical characteristics
- Package and Pinout Information – Detailed pin assignments and mechanical drawings
- AC/DC Switching Characteristics – Timing specifications and electrical parameters
- Configuration Guide – Programming and configuration procedures
- Power Consumption Analysis – Power estimation and thermal considerations
Design Resources:
- Reference Designs – Proven implementations and example projects
- Application Notes – Best practices and design guidelines
- PCB Layout Guidelines – Board design recommendations for optimal performance
- Footprint and Symbol Libraries – CAD files for popular design tools (Altium, Eagle, KiCad, OrCAD)
Software Tools:
- ISE Design Suite – Legacy development environment (compatible)
- Vivado Design Suite – Modern development platform (limited support)
- Impact – Configuration and programming utility
- ChipScope Pro – On-chip debugging and analysis
4. Related Resources
Development Ecosystem
The XC3S100E-5TQG144C is supported by a comprehensive ecosystem of development tools, evaluation boards, and community resources:
Development Boards and Kits:
- Spartan-3E Starter Kit
- Custom evaluation boards from third-party vendors
- Compatible with standard JTAG programming interfaces
Programming and Debug Tools:
- Platform Cable USB – Standard JTAG programming interface
- JTAG-SMT2 surface-mount programmer (Digilent)
- USB-JTAG adapters from various manufacturers
Community and Support:
- AMD/Xilinx Community Forums
- FPGA development communities and user groups
- Technical application support through authorized distributors
- Extensive online tutorials and design examples
Compatible IP Cores:
- MicroBlaze soft processor
- DSP and signal processing cores
- Communication protocol stacks
- Memory controllers and interfaces
Applications and Use Cases
The XC3S100E-5TQG144C excels in various application domains:
- Consumer Electronics: Digital TVs, set-top boxes, gaming systems
- Communications: Network switches, routers, protocol processors
- Industrial Control: Motor control, automation systems, HMI interfaces
- Medical Devices: Portable diagnostic equipment, patient monitoring
- Automotive: Infotainment systems, driver assistance features
- Education: FPGA learning platforms and university projects
5. Environmental & Export Classifications
Environmental Compliance
The XC3S100E-5TQG144C meets stringent environmental and regulatory standards for global deployment:
RoHS Compliance:
- Status: RoHS Compliant (lead-free)
- Package: Green package with lead-free finish
- Environmental standards: Meets EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU
Temperature Classifications:
- Operating Temperature: 0ยฐC to +85ยฐC (Commercial grade)
- Storage Temperature: -65ยฐC to +150ยฐC
- Junction Temperature: Up to +85ยฐC maximum
Package and Environmental:
- Moisture Sensitivity Level: MSL 3 (168 hours at 30ยฐC/60% RH)
- Package Material: Halogen-free compound
- Lead-free compatible: Yes (Pb-free manufacturing process)
Export and Trade Classifications
Export Control Information:
- ECCN (Export Control Classification Number): EAR99
- USHTS (US Harmonized Tariff Schedule): 8542390001
- TARIC (EU Tariff Code): 8542399000
- Country of Origin: Varies by manufacturing location
Regulatory Compliance:
- CE Marking: Compliant for European markets
- FCC: Suitable for use in FCC-regulated equipment
- International Standards: Meets IEC and JEDEC specifications
Quality and Reliability:
- Quality Standard: ISO 9001 certified manufacturing
- Reliability Testing: JEDEC standard qualification
- Device Lifecycle: Production status (actively manufactured)
Why Choose XC3S100E-5TQG144C?
The XC3S100E-5TQG144C represents the perfect balance of performance, cost-effectiveness, and design flexibility. As part of AMD’s proven Spartan-3E family, it offers designers the reliability and support ecosystem needed for successful product development while maintaining the low cost structures required for high-volume consumer applications.
Whether you’re developing next-generation consumer electronics, implementing custom digital signal processing solutions, or creating innovative embedded systems, the XC3S100E-5TQG144C provides the programmable logic foundation to bring your designs to life.
Contact your local AMD/Xilinx distributor today to discuss your XC3S100E-5TQG144C requirements and begin your next FPGA project.

