The XC3S250E-4VQ100I is a versatile and cost-effective FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) from Xilinx’s renowned Spartan-3E series, designed to deliver exceptional performance for a wide range of embedded applications. This industrial-grade programmable logic device combines advanced features with reliable operation, making it an ideal choice for designers seeking flexible digital signal processing capabilities.
Product Specifications
The XC3S250E-4VQ100I offers robust technical specifications that meet demanding application requirements:
Core Architecture:
- Logic cells: 250,000 system gates
- Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs): 612
- Distributed RAM: 15 Kb
- Block RAM: 216 Kb (12 blocks of 18 Kb each)
- Digital Clock Manager (DCM) blocks: 4
Memory and Processing:
- Dedicated multipliers: 12 (18×18 bit)
- Maximum user I/O pins: 72
- Operating voltage: 1.2V core, 3.3V I/O
- Speed grade: -4 (high performance)
Package Details:
- Package type: VQ100 (Very Thin Quad Flat Pack)
- Pin count: 100 pins
- Package size: 14mm x 14mm
- Temperature range: Industrial (-40ยฐC to +100ยฐC)
- Part number suffix “I” indicates industrial temperature grade
The XC3S250E-4VQ100I features advanced clock management capabilities with four DCM blocks, enabling precise timing control and clock synthesis for complex digital designs. The device supports various configuration modes including JTAG, SelectMAP, and serial configuration options.
Price Information
Pricing for the XC3S250E-4VQ100I varies based on quantity, supplier, and market conditions. Contact authorized distributors for current pricing and availability. Volume discounts are typically available for production quantities. The industrial temperature rating of this XC3S250E-4VQ100I variant may command a premium over commercial-grade alternatives due to enhanced reliability specifications.
Documents & Media
Essential documentation for the XC3S250E-4VQ100I includes:
Technical Documentation:
- Spartan-3E FPGA Family Data Sheet (DS312)
- XC3S250E-4VQ100I Device-specific datasheet
- Spartan-3E FPGA User Guide
- Package and pinout documentation
- AC/DC switching characteristics
Development Resources:
- ISE Design Suite compatibility information
- Vivado Design Suite migration guides
- Reference designs and application notes
- PCB layout guidelines for VQ100 package
- Thermal management documentation
Software Tools:
- Xilinx ISE WebPACK (free version)
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite (full version)
- ChipScope Pro debugging tools
- ModelSim simulation compatibility
High-resolution package drawings, 3D models, and IBIS models are available through Xilinx’s official documentation portal to support accurate PCB design and signal integrity analysis for XC3S250E-4VQ100I implementations.
Related Resources
The XC3S250E-4VQ100I ecosystem includes comprehensive development and support resources:
Development Boards:
- Spartan-3E Starter Kit featuring XC3S250E
- Custom evaluation boards from third-party vendors
- Breadboard-friendly breakout modules
Compatible IP Cores:
- MicroBlaze soft processor core
- DSP48 slice utilization guides
- Memory controller IP for external SDRAM/DDR
- Communication protocol implementations (UART, SPI, I2C)
Application Examples:
- Digital signal processing applications
- Motor control systems
- Communication protocol processing
- Image and video processing pipelines
- Industrial automation controllers
Training and Support:
- Xilinx University Program resources
- Online training modules for Spartan-3E architecture
- Community forums and technical support
- Application engineering consultation services
The XC3S250E-4VQ100I benefits from extensive third-party tool support, including synthesis tools from Synopsys and Mentor Graphics, enabling flexible design flows for various development environments.
Environmental & Export Classifications
The XC3S250E-4VQ100I meets stringent environmental and regulatory standards:
Environmental Compliance:
- RoHS compliant (lead-free manufacturing)
- REACH regulation compliance
- Halogen-free package materials available
- MSL (Moisture Sensitivity Level): Level 3
- ESD classification: Class 1A (>1000V HBM)
Quality Standards:
- Industrial temperature range: -40ยฐC to +100ยฐC junction temperature
- Automotive qualification available (contact Xilinx)
- ISO 9001:2015 manufacturing quality system
- JEDEC standard compliance for reliability testing
Export Classifications:
- ECCN (Export Control Classification Number): 3A001.a.7
- HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule): 8542.33.0001
- Country of origin marking requirements apply
- Export licensing may be required for certain destinations
Packaging and Handling:
- Anti-static packaging for ESD protection
- Tape and reel packaging available for automated assembly
- Dry pack shipping for moisture-sensitive components
- Traceability documentation for quality assurance
The XC3S250E-4VQ100I industrial temperature rating ensures reliable operation in harsh environments, making it suitable for automotive, industrial automation, and aerospace applications where extended temperature ranges are required. Proper handling procedures and storage conditions help maintain device reliability throughout the supply chain.
This comprehensive XC3S250E-4VQ100I specification ensures designers have complete information for successful integration into their embedded systems and FPGA-based solutions.

