AMD XC17256ELPC20C

Overview

XC17256ELPC20C from AMD is a 256-kbit serial PROM configured for Xilinx FPGA configuration, operating at 5 V with 20 ns access time and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), used in embedded FPGA boot systems.

For engineers reviewing the XC17256ELPC20C datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection factors include VCC tolerance, read access timing, JEDEC-compliant packaging, and compatibility with Xilinx Virtex/E series configuration protocols.

Technical Context

This device implements a CMOS-based serial EEPROM architecture optimized for FPGA bitstream loading, supporting standard SPI-compatible read commands and single-supply 5 V operation. It features built-in power-on reset circuitry and automatic address incrementing during sequential reads.

The XC17256ELPC20C uses a 20-pin plastic DIP package with dual-row through-hole mounting and adheres to JEDEC MS-001BA mechanical standards. Its internal memory array is organized as 32K × 8 bits with page-write capability up to 64 bytes per cycle.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

XC17256ELPC20C is housed in a 20-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP) with 0.3-inch body width, JEDEC MS-001BA compliant, through-hole mounting, and pin 1 marked by notch or dot.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar FPGA configuration PROM applications.

Compared with XC17256ELPC20C, XCF02SVO20C offers higher density and faster access but requires voltage and footprint changes, while AT25DF041A-SH-B reduces package size and cost at the expense of FPGA-native interface support and increased firmware complexity.

Availability

XC17256ELPC20C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, test equipment, avionics data loggers, and medical imaging front-ends requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for XC17256ELPC20C includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

AMD (Advanced Micro Devices) designs high-performance computing, graphics, and adaptive SoC solutions, with heritage in programmable logic and nonvolatile configuration technologies.

The XC1700 family was developed specifically to provide standardized, pin-compatible configuration memory for Xilinx FPGA platforms during the 1990s–early 2000s era.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the XC17256ELPC20C in an FPGA-based system?

The XC17256ELPC20C serves as a dedicated serial configuration PROM that stores and delivers the bitstream to initialize Xilinx FPGAs such as the XC4000E and XC5200 families at power-on. It operates autonomously without host processor involvement, ensuring deterministic FPGA startup. The XC17256ELPC20C integrates address decoding, output enable control, and 5 V-compatible I/O to match legacy FPGA configuration interfaces directly.

Does the XC17256ELPC20C support in-system programming or field updates?

No, the XC17256ELPC20C is a one-time programmable (OTP) PROM and does not support in-system reprogramming. Programming must be performed prior to system assembly using a compatible PROM programmer. Once programmed, the bitstream is permanently stored and cannot be altered in the target application. This design ensures immunity to corruption during FPGA operation, making the XC17256ELPC20C suitable for safety-critical or maintenance-free deployments.

Is the XC17256ELPC20C pin-compatible with other devices in the XC1700 family?

Yes, the XC17256ELPC20C shares identical pinout and electrical interface with other members of the XC1700 series, including XC17128, XC17256, and XC17512 in the same PDIP-20 package variant. This allows direct substitution based on required memory density while maintaining PCB layout and FPGA connection integrity. All XC1700 devices use the same /CE, /OE, /WE, and DATA pin assignments defined in Xilinx UG002.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported during XC17256ELPC20C read operations?

The XC17256ELPC20C does not use a synchronous clock input; it relies on edge-triggered /CE and /OE control signals for asynchronous read access. Its 20 ns access time corresponds to a maximum effective read rate of approximately 25 MHz when interfaced with FPGA configuration controllers generating compatible strobe timing. No external clock signal is required-timing is governed solely by the FPGA's configuration state machine.

Can the XC17256ELPC20C be used with modern Xilinx FPGA families like Artix-7 or Kintex-7?

No, the XC17256ELPC20C is not compatible with 7-series or UltraScale FPGAs, which require configuration via dedicated JTAG, SelectMAP, or SPIx4 interfaces with different voltage levels, command sets, and bitstream formats. These newer families do not recognize XC1700-series PROM protocols. The XC17256ELPC20C is intended exclusively for legacy Xilinx architectures including XC3000, XC4000, and XC5200 families.