The XC3S500E-4VQG100C is a powerful field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from Xilinx’s acclaimed Spartan-3E family, designed to deliver exceptional performance for cost-sensitive applications. This versatile FPGA combines advanced features with affordability, making it an ideal choice for digital signal processing, embedded processing, and system integration projects.
Product Specifications
The XC3S500E-4VQG100C offers robust technical specifications that make it suitable for demanding applications:
Core Architecture:
- Logic cells: 10,476 equivalent gates
- System gates: 500,000
- CLB array: 46 x 34 Configurable Logic Blocks
- Total CLBs: 1,164
- Slices: 4,656 (4 LUTs and 2 flip-flops per slice)
- Distributed RAM: 73 Kbits
- Block RAM: 360 Kbits (20 blocks of 18 Kbits each)
Memory and Processing:
- Dedicated multipliers: 20 (18×18 bit)
- Maximum user I/O: 66 pins
- Differential I/O pairs: 33
- Digital Clock Manager (DCM) blocks: 4
- Maximum frequency: 250+ MHz (speed grade -4)
Package Details:
- Package type: VQG100 (Very thin Quad Flat Pack)
- Pin count: 100 pins
- Package dimensions: 14mm x 14mm
- Operating temperature: Commercial grade (0ยฐC to +85ยฐC)
- Supply voltage: 1.2V core, 3.3V I/O
Key Features:
- IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary-scan support
- In-system programming and debugging capabilities
- Low power consumption with multiple power management modes
- Compatible with Xilinx ISE Design Suite and Vivado Design Suite
Price Information
The XC3S500E-4VQG100C is competitively priced within the mid-range FPGA market segment. Pricing varies based on quantity, supplier, and current market conditions. For the most current pricing information and volume discounts, contact authorized Xilinx distributors or electronic component suppliers. Educational discounts may be available for academic institutions and students.
Documents & Media
Official Documentation:
- XC3S500E-4VQG100C Datasheet (Product Specification)
- Spartan-3E FPGA Family Complete Data Sheet
- XC3S500E-4VQG100C Package and Pinout Information
- PCB Design Guidelines for VQG100 Package
- Power and Thermal Management Guide
Development Resources:
- ISE Design Suite User Guides
- Spartan-3E FPGA Starter Kit Documentation
- Application Notes for Digital Signal Processing
- Reference Designs and Example Projects
- VHDL and Verilog Code Examples
Software Tools:
- Xilinx ISE WebPACK (free development environment)
- Xilinx Vivado Design Suite compatibility information
- ChipScope Pro Analyzer for debugging
- PlanAhead Design and Analysis Tool
Related Resources
Development Boards and Kits:
- Spartan-3E Starter Kit Board
- XC3S500E Evaluation Modules
- Third-party development platforms supporting XC3S500E-4VQG100C
- Breadboard-friendly breakout boards
Compatible Components:
- Configuration memory devices (Platform Flash)
- Power management ICs optimized for Spartan-3E
- Clock generation and distribution circuits
- High-speed connectors and interface components
Educational Resources:
- FPGA design tutorials and course materials
- Webinar series on Spartan-3E applications
- Community forums and technical support
- University program resources and academic licensing
Application Areas:
- Digital signal processing systems
- Communications and networking equipment
- Industrial automation and control
- Medical device electronics
- Automotive electronics and testing equipment
Environmental & Export Classifications
Environmental Compliance:
- RoHS compliant (lead-free manufacturing)
- REACH regulation compliance
- Conflict minerals reporting available
- Halogen-free package options available
- Green packaging and materials certification
Operating Conditions:
- Operating temperature: 0ยฐC to +85ยฐC (commercial grade)
- Storage temperature: -65ยฐC to +150ยฐC
- Relative humidity: 5% to 85% non-condensing
- MSL (Moisture Sensitivity Level): Level 3
Export and Trade Classifications:
- Export Control Classification Number (ECCN): 5A002
- Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code: 8542.31.0001
- Country of origin: Varies by manufacturing location
- Export licensing requirements may apply for certain destinations
Quality and Reliability:
- Automotive qualification available (contact Xilinx for AEC-Q100 qualified versions)
- Extended temperature range options available
- Military and aerospace grade versions available through authorized channels
- Comprehensive quality assurance and testing programs
The XC3S500E-4VQG100C represents an excellent balance of performance, features, and cost-effectiveness for FPGA-based designs. Its robust architecture and comprehensive development ecosystem make it an ideal choice for both prototyping and production applications across various industries.

