The XC3S250E-5PQ208C is a versatile and cost-effective field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from Xilinx’s renowned Spartan-3E family. This programmable logic device delivers exceptional performance for a wide range of digital applications, making it an ideal choice for engineers and designers seeking reliable, flexible solutions for their embedded systems projects.
Product Specifications
The XC3S250E-5PQ208C features robust specifications that make it suitable for diverse applications:
Core Architecture:
- Logic cells: 5,508 equivalent logic cells
- System gates: 250,000 typical gate count
- Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs): 612 total CLBs
- Block RAM: 216 Kbits of dedicated block RAM
- Dedicated multipliers: 12 embedded 18×18 multipliers
I/O and Package Details:
- Package type: 208-pin Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP)
- User I/O pins: 158 maximum user I/O
- Speed grade: -5 (indicating high-performance timing characteristics)
- Operating voltage: 1.2V core, 3.3V I/O
- Temperature range: Commercial grade (0ยฐC to +85ยฐC)
Performance Characteristics:
- Maximum frequency: Up to 326 MHz internal clock
- Low power consumption with advanced power management
- In-system programmable via JTAG interface
- Support for multiple configuration modes
Price Information
The XC3S250E-5PQ208C pricing varies based on quantity and supplier. Typical market prices range from $15 to $45 per unit for standard commercial quantities. Educational discounts and volume pricing are often available through authorized Xilinx distributors. For current pricing and availability, contact certified electronics suppliers or visit official distributor websites.
Documents & Media
Technical Documentation:
- XC3S250E-5PQ208C datasheet with complete electrical specifications
- Spartan-3E FPGA family user guide
- Configuration user guide for programming procedures
- Package and pinout diagrams (208-pin PQFP)
- DC and switching characteristics documentation
Development Resources:
- Reference designs and application notes
- Vivado Design Suite compatibility information
- ISE Design Suite project examples
- Constraint files and UCF templates
- Hardware debugging guides
Media Files:
- Product photos and package dimensions
- 3D CAD models for PCB design integration
- Schematic symbols and PCB footprints
- Technical presentations and webinar recordings
Related Resources
Development Tools:
- Xilinx Vivado Design Suite for design implementation
- ISE WebPACK (legacy support)
- ChipScope Pro for real-time debugging
- Platform Studio for embedded processor designs
Evaluation Boards:
- Spartan-3E Starter Kit for prototyping
- Development boards featuring the XC3S250E-5PQ208C
- Third-party evaluation platforms
Application Examples:
- Digital signal processing implementations
- Communication protocol controllers
- Motor control applications
- Video and image processing systems
- Industrial automation controllers
Supporting Components:
- Compatible configuration PROMs
- Power management solutions
- Clock generation and distribution circuits
- Interface level translators
Environmental & Export Classifications
Environmental Compliance:
- RoHS compliant (lead-free package)
- REACH regulation compliant
- Green package classification
- Halogen-free package option available
Operating Conditions:
- Junction temperature: -40ยฐC to +100ยฐC
- Storage temperature: -65ยฐC to +150ยฐC
- Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing
- Altitude: Up to 2000 meters operational
Export Classifications:
- ECCN (Export Control Classification Number): 3A001.A.7.A
- HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule): 8542.33.0001
- Country of origin: Varies by manufacturing location
- Export license requirements may apply for certain destinations
Quality Standards:
- Manufactured in ISO 9001 certified facilities
- Automotive grade versions available (extended temperature range)
- Military and aerospace qualified variants offered
- Comprehensive quality assurance testing
The XC3S250E-5PQ208C represents an excellent balance of performance, cost, and flexibility for FPGA-based designs. Its comprehensive feature set and robust specifications make it suitable for educational projects, prototyping, and production applications across multiple industries. With extensive documentation and development tool support, the XC3S250E-5PQ208C enables rapid design implementation and deployment.

