The XC3S500E-FTG256DGQ is a cutting-edge Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from AMD/Xilinx’s renowned Spartan-3E family, specifically engineered for high-volume, cost-sensitive consumer electronic applications. This advanced programmable logic device delivers exceptional functionality and bandwidth per dollar, setting new industry standards in the programmable logic market.
Product Specifications
Core Features
- Family: Spartan-3E FPGA
- Logic Density: 500K system gates
- Logic Cells: 10,476 logic cells with shift register capability
- Maximum Frequency: 572MHz performance
- Process Technology: Advanced 90nm CMOS technology
- Core Voltage: 1.2V operation
- Package Type: 256-Pin Fine-pitch Ball Grid Array (FTBGA)
- Temperature Grade: Industrial temperature range
Memory Architecture
- Block RAM: Up to 1,728 Kbits total block RAM capacity
- Distributed RAM: Up to 432 Kbits total distributed RAM
- SelectRAM: Hierarchical memory structure for optimal performance
I/O and Connectivity
- SelectIO Signaling: Up to 633 I/O pins
- Signal Standards: 18 single-ended and 8 differential signal standards
- LVDS/RSDS Support: High-speed differential signaling capability
- DDR Support: Double Data Rate (DDR) compatibility
- JTAG: IEEE 1149.1/1532 compatible boundary scan
Clock Management
- Digital Clock Managers (DCM): Four dedicated DCMs
- Clock Features: Clock skew elimination, frequency synthesis, high-resolution phase shifting
- Wide Multiplexers: Fast look-ahead carry logic
- Dedicated Multipliers: 18 x 18 multipliers for DSP applications
Price Information
The XC3S500E-FTG256DGQ offers competitive pricing for volume applications:
- Small Quantities (360+): Starting from $115.40 per unit
- Medium Volume (720+): $107.04 per unit
- High Volume (1440+): $90.31 per unit
- Large Volume (3600+): $65.22 per unit
- Extra Large Volume (36000+): $61.21 per unit
Pricing subject to market conditions and availability. Contact authorized distributors for current quotes and volume discounts.
Documents & Media
Technical Documentation
- Official Datasheet: Comprehensive PDF datasheet with complete electrical and timing specifications
- User Guide: Spartan-3E FPGA User Guide with design guidelines and best practices
- Package Information: Pin-out diagrams, mechanical drawings, and thermal characteristics
- Application Notes: Design implementation guides and reference designs
Development Tools
- Vivado Design Suite: AMD/Xilinx’s integrated design environment for synthesis and implementation
- ISE Design Tools: Legacy development environment support
- IP Catalog: Extensive library of pre-verified IP cores
- Reference Designs: Ready-to-use design examples and templates
Programming Resources
- Configuration Files: Bitstream generation and configuration guides
- Programming Cables: Compatible with JTAG programming interfaces
- Debug Tools: ChipScope Pro and integrated logic analyzer support
Related Resources
Development Platforms
- Evaluation Boards: Spartan-3E FPGA starter kits and evaluation platforms
- Development Boards: Third-party boards including Basys 3, Nexys4-DDR, and Arty S7
- Training Materials: Online courses and tutorials for FPGA design
Design Support
- Technical Forums: Active community support and design assistance
- Application Support: Expert technical guidance for implementation challenges
- Design Services: Professional design and consulting services available
Compatible Products
- XC3S500E-4FTG256C: Commercial temperature grade variant
- XC3S500E-5FTG256C: Extended temperature grade option
- XC3S500E-FG320: Alternative package option with more I/O pins
Environmental & Export Classifications
Environmental Compliance
- RoHS Status: Compliant with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directive
- REACH Compliance: Meets European REACH regulation requirements
- Lead-Free: Manufactured using lead-free processes
- Halogen-Free: Available in halogen-free package options
Export Classifications
- ECCN: Export Control Classification Number compliance
- Country of Origin: Manufactured in accordance with global trade regulations
- WEEE Compliance: Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment directive compliant
Quality Standards
- ISO Certification: Manufactured in ISO 9001 certified facilities
- Automotive Grade: Available in automotive-qualified versions
- Industrial Temperature: -40ยฐC to +100ยฐC operating range
- Reliability: MTBF ratings and qualification data available
Applications
The XC3S500E-FTG256DGQ is ideally suited for:
- Consumer Electronics: Digital television, set-top boxes, and multimedia devices
- Communications: Broadband access equipment and home networking solutions
- Display Technology: LCD controllers and video processing systems
- Industrial Control: Automation systems and process control applications
- Automotive Electronics: In-vehicle infotainment and control systems
The XC3S500E-FTG256DGQ represents the perfect balance of performance, cost-effectiveness, and versatility for modern FPGA designs. With its robust feature set and proven reliability, this Spartan-3E FPGA continues to be a preferred choice for engineers worldwide.

