The XC3S400A-4FTG256I is a powerful field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from Xilinx’s Spartan-3A family, designed to deliver exceptional performance for cost-sensitive applications. This versatile programmable logic device combines advanced features with reliability, making it an ideal choice for engineers developing complex digital systems.
Product Specifications
The XC3S400A-4FTG256I offers robust performance capabilities in a compact package:
Core Architecture:
- Logic Cells: 8,064 system gates equivalent
- Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs): 896 slices
- Block RAM: 360 Kbits total
- Distributed RAM: 112 Kbits
- Digital Clock Manager (DCM) blocks: 4
- Maximum user I/O pins: 195
Performance Characteristics:
- Speed grade: -4 (industrial grade)
- Operating voltage: 1.2V core, 3.3V I/O
- Maximum operating frequency: Up to 250 MHz
- Low power consumption design
- Advanced power management features
Package Details:
- Package type: FTG256 (Fine-pitch Ball Grid Array)
- Pin count: 256 pins
- Package size: 17mm x 17mm
- Temperature grade: Industrial (-40°C to +85°C)
The XC3S400A-4FTG256I supports various I/O standards including LVTTL, LVCMOS, SSTL, and differential signaling standards, providing excellent flexibility for interfacing with different system components.
Pricing Information
The XC3S400A-4FTG256I is positioned as a cost-effective solution in the mid-range FPGA market. Pricing varies based on order quantity, with volume discounts available for large-scale production requirements. Contact authorized Xilinx distributors for current pricing and availability, as semiconductor prices fluctuate based on market conditions and supply chain factors.
For budget planning, the XC3S400A-4FTG256I typically falls within the moderate pricing tier of Spartan-3A devices, offering excellent price-to-performance ratio for applications requiring substantial logic resources without premium feature sets.
Documents & Media
Essential documentation for the XC3S400A-4FTG256I includes:
Technical Documentation:
- Spartan-3A FPGA Family Data Sheet (DS529)
- XC3S400A-4FTG256I Device-specific datasheet
- Spartan-3A FPGA User Guide
- Package and pinout specifications
- DC and AC switching characteristics
Design Resources:
- Xilinx ISE Design Suite compatibility guides
- Constraint files and UCF templates
- Reference designs and application notes
- Power estimation spreadsheets and tools
Development Tools:
- ISE WebPACK (free development environment)
- ChipScope Pro for debugging
- CORE Generator for IP integration
- Timing analysis and simulation tools
All documentation is available through Xilinx’s official website and technical support portal, ensuring designers have access to the most current specifications and design guidelines.
Related Resources
The XC3S400A-4FTG256I ecosystem includes comprehensive development and support resources:
Development Boards:
- Spartan-3A Starter Kit
- Third-party evaluation platforms
- Custom development boards from partners
Compatible IP Cores:
- MicroBlaze soft processor
- Digital signal processing (DSP) cores
- Communication protocol stacks
- Memory controllers and interfaces
Design Software:
- Xilinx Vivado (for newer designs)
- Legacy ISE support and maintenance
- Third-party synthesis and simulation tools
- Hardware debugging and verification tools
Community Support:
- Xilinx community forums
- Technical application notes
- Design methodology guides
- Training materials and webinars
These resources enable rapid prototyping and efficient development cycles, reducing time-to-market for products incorporating the XC3S400A-4FTG256I.
Environmental & Export Classifications
The XC3S400A-4FTG256I meets stringent environmental and regulatory standards:
Environmental Compliance:
- RoHS compliant (lead-free manufacturing)
- REACH regulation compliance
- Industrial temperature range: -40°C to +85°C
- Moisture sensitivity level (MSL): Level 3
- Halogen-free package options available
Quality Standards:
- Automotive-grade versions available (AEC-Q100 qualified)
- Military and aerospace screening options
- Extended reliability testing and qualification
- Statistical quality control and traceability
Export Classifications:
- Export Control Classification Number (ECCN): 3A991.a.2
- Country of origin restrictions may apply
- Compliance with international trade regulations
- Documentation support for export licensing
Reliability Features:
- Built-in configuration memory error detection
- Single-event upset (SEU) mitigation capabilities
- Extended operating life and MTBF ratings
- Comprehensive failure analysis and quality reporting
The XC3S400A-4FTG256I represents a mature, well-supported FPGA solution that balances performance, cost, and reliability for a wide range of digital design applications. Its comprehensive feature set and robust support ecosystem make it an excellent choice for both prototype development and volume production requirements.
