The XC3S50A-4TQG144CES is a high-performance Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from Xilinx’s renowned Spartan-3A family, designed for cost-sensitive, high-volume applications requiring exceptional I/O capabilities and flexible digital logic implementation.
Product Specifications
Core Architecture
- Part Number: XC3S50A-4TQG144CES
- Manufacturer: Xilinx Inc.
- FPGA Family: Spartan-3A
- System Gates: 50,000 gates
- Logic Cells: 1,584 cells
- Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs): 176 CLBs
- Maximum Operating Frequency: 667MHz
- Process Technology: Advanced 90nm CMOS technology
Package and Physical Specifications
- Package Type: 144-Pin Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP)
- Package Code: TQG144
- Pin Count: 144 pins
- I/O Pins: 108 user I/O pins
- Operating Temperature Range: Commercial grade (0ยฐC to +85ยฐC)
- Core Voltage: 1.2V (1.14V to 1.26V range)
- Auxiliary Voltage (VCCAUX): Dual-range supply support
Memory and Storage
- Total RAM Bits: 54 Kbits (55,296 bits)
- Block RAM: Distributed throughout the device
- Configuration Memory: Internal SRAM-based configuration
Power and Performance Features
- Low Power Consumption: Optimized 90nm technology
- Speed Grade: -4 (667MHz maximum frequency)
- Clock Management: Integrated Digital Clock Managers (DCMs)
- Power Supply: Single 1.2V core supply with dual-range VCCAUX
- RoHS Compliance: RoHS compliant version available
Key Technical Features
- Very low cost, high-performance logic solution
- Dual-range VCCAUX supply simplifies 3.3V-only designs
- Field-upgradeable configuration capability
- Multiple I/O standards support
- Embedded clock management system
- Advanced power management features
Price Information
XC3S50A-4TQG144CES pricing varies based on quantity and supplier. Current market pricing ranges:
Volume Pricing Tiers
- 120+ units: Starting from $35.99 per unit
- 240+ units: $33.38 per unit
- 360+ units: $28.17 per unit
- 600+ units: $25.56 per unit
- 1,200+ units: $23.16 per unit
- 6,000+ units: $20.34 per unit
- 12,000+ units: $19.09 per unit
Note: Prices are subject to change based on market conditions and supplier availability. Contact authorized distributors for current pricing and lead times.
Cost Benefits
The XC3S50A-4TQG144CES offers significant cost advantages over traditional ASIC solutions by eliminating:
- High initial NRE (Non-Recurring Engineering) costs
- Lengthy development cycles
- Manufacturing inflexibility
- Risk of obsolescence
Documents & Media
Technical Documentation
- Official Datasheet: Spartan-3A FPGA Family Data Sheet (DS529)
- User Guide: Spartan-3A FPGA User Guide
- Configuration Guide: Spartan-3A Configuration User Guide
- PCB Design Guidelines: Package and PCB design recommendations
- Thermal Guidelines: Thermal design considerations
Design Resources
- Reference Designs: Sample VHDL/Verilog code examples
- Application Notes: Implementation best practices
- White Papers: Advanced design techniques and optimization strategies
- Pinout Documentation: Complete pin assignment and electrical specifications
Software Tools
- ISE Design Suite: Legacy development environment (recommended for Spartan-3A)
- Vivado Design Suite: Alternative development platform
- ChipScope Pro: Integrated logic analyzer
- CORE Generator: IP core generation tool
Related Resources
Development Platforms
- Spartan-3A Starter Kit: Complete development platform
- Evaluation Boards: Third-party development boards
- Reference Designs: Proven implementation examples
Complementary Products
- XC3S50AN-4TQG144C: Automotive/medical grade variant
- XC3S50A-4VQG100C: 100-pin VTQFP package alternative
- XC3S50A-4FTG256C: 256-pin FTBGA package option
Technical Support Resources
- Xilinx Support Center: Online technical support portal
- Community Forums: User community and knowledge base
- Training Materials: Online courses and tutorials
- Application Engineering: Direct technical consultation
Compatible Tools and IP
- MicroBlaze Soft Processor: Embedded processor solution
- Xilinx IP Cores: Pre-verified intellectual property
- Third-party IP: Compatible soft cores and interfaces
- Debug Tools: Logic analyzers and protocol analyzers
Environmental & Export Classifications
Environmental Compliance
- RoHS Directive: Compliant versions available (contact for specific part numbers)
- WEEE Directive: Compliant with waste electrical equipment regulations
- REACH Regulation: Meets European chemical safety requirements
- Conflict Minerals: Xilinx maintains conflict-free supply chain policies
Export Control Classifications
- ECCN (Export Control Classification Number): EAR99
- HTS Code (US): 8542390001
- CN HTS Code: 8542399000
- TARIC Code: 8542399000
- Country of Origin: Typically manufactured in various approved facilities
Quality and Reliability
- Quality Standard: ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturing
- Reliability Testing: Extensive qualification testing per JEDEC standards
- Temperature Cycling: Tested for industrial temperature ranges
- ESD Protection: Built-in electrostatic discharge protection
- Qualification Level: Commercial grade (0ยฐC to +85ยฐC)
Packaging and Shipping
- Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL): MSL 3 (168 hours at 30ยฐC/60% RH)
- Package Marking: Laser-marked with part number and date code
- Tray Packaging: Anti-static trays for volume shipments
- Tape and Reel: Available for automated assembly
The XC3S50A-4TQG144CES represents an ideal solution for designers seeking a cost-effective, high-performance FPGA with excellent I/O capabilities and proven reliability for commercial applications. Its combination of advanced 90nm technology, comprehensive development tool support, and flexible configuration options makes it suitable for a wide range of digital design applications including communications, industrial control, and consumer electronics.
