The XC3S50A-4CFT256 is a powerful field-programmable gate array (FPGA) from Xilinx’s renowned Spartan-3A family, designed to deliver exceptional performance and flexibility for a wide range of digital signal processing and embedded system applications. This compact yet feature-rich FPGA offers an ideal balance of cost-effectiveness and functionality for engineers developing innovative electronic solutions.
Product Specifications
The XC3S50A-4CFT256 features a comprehensive set of specifications that make it suitable for demanding applications:
Core Architecture:
- Logic cells: 50,000 system gates
- Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs): 1,584
- Total distributed RAM bits: 25,344
- Block RAM bits: 108,000 (54 blocks × 2,000 bits each)
- Digital Clock Manager (DCM) blocks: 2
I/O and Package Details:
- Package: 256-pin CFTBGA (Chip-scale Fine-pitch Ball Grid Array)
- User I/O pins: 172
- Differential I/O pairs: 68
- Operating voltage: 1.2V core, 2.5V/3.3V I/O
Performance Characteristics:
- Speed grade: -4 (high-performance grade)
- Maximum operating frequency: Up to 200+ MHz
- Low power consumption with advanced power management
- Support for multiple I/O standards including LVDS, SSTL, and HSTL
The XC3S50A-4CFT256 integrates seamlessly with Xilinx’s ISE Design Suite, providing comprehensive development tools for rapid prototyping and deployment.
Price
Pricing for the XC3S50A-4CFT256 varies based on quantity, supplier, and market conditions. Typical pricing ranges include:
- Single unit: $45-65 USD
- Volume pricing (100+ units): $35-50 USD per unit
- Large volume (1000+ units): Contact authorized distributors for competitive quotes
Pricing may fluctuate based on semiconductor market conditions and availability. For the most current XC3S50A-4CFT256 pricing, consult authorized Xilinx distributors such as Digi-Key, Mouser Electronics, or Arrow Electronics.
Documents & Media
Essential documentation and resources for the XC3S50A-4CFT256 include:
Technical Documentation:
- Spartan-3A FPGA Family Data Sheet (DS529)
- XC3S50A-4CFT256 Package and Pinout Specifications
- Spartan-3A FPGA User Guide (UG331)
- Configuration User Guide (UG332)
Development Resources:
- ISE Design Suite compatibility guides
- Reference designs and application notes
- PCB layout guidelines for CFT256 package
- Thermal management and power supply design recommendations
Software Tools:
- Xilinx ISE WebPACK (free development environment)
- ChipScope Pro for debugging and analysis
- Power estimation and thermal analysis tools
All official documentation for the XC3S50A-4CFT256 is available through the Xilinx Support Portal and authorized distributor websites.
Related Resources
Engineers working with the XC3S50A-4CFT256 can leverage numerous related resources:
Development Boards:
- Spartan-3A Starter Kit
- Third-party evaluation boards supporting CFT256 package
- Custom development platforms from various vendors
Compatible Components:
- Configuration memory devices (SPI Flash, Parallel Flash)
- Power management ICs optimized for Spartan-3A FPGAs
- Clock generation and distribution components
Design Examples:
- Digital signal processing implementations
- Embedded processor systems using MicroBlaze
- Communication interface designs (Ethernet, USB, PCIe)
- Motor control and industrial automation applications
Community Resources:
- Xilinx Developer Forums
- FPGA design tutorials and webinars
- Open-source IP cores and reference designs
The XC3S50A-4CFT256 ecosystem provides comprehensive support for rapid development and deployment of FPGA-based solutions.
Environmental & Export Classifications
The XC3S50A-4CFT256 meets stringent environmental and regulatory standards:
Environmental Compliance:
- RoHS compliant (lead-free manufacturing)
- REACH regulation compliance
- Operating temperature range: 0°C to +85°C (commercial grade)
- Storage temperature range: -65°C to +150°C
- Moisture sensitivity level: MSL 3
Quality Standards:
- Manufactured in ISO 9001 certified facilities
- Automotive-grade versions available (AEC-Q100 qualified)
- Industrial temperature range options: -40°C to +100°C
Export Classification:
- Export Control Classification Number (ECCN): 3A001.a.7
- Subject to US Export Administration Regulations (EAR)
- May require export licenses 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 devices
The XC3S50A-4CFT256 adheres to international environmental standards while maintaining the highest levels of quality and reliability expected from Xilinx FPGA products.
The XC3S50A-4CFT256 represents an excellent choice for engineers seeking a balance of performance, features, and cost-effectiveness in their FPGA designs. Its robust specifications and comprehensive ecosystem support make it ideal for a wide range of applications from industrial control to communications infrastructure.
