AMD XC17256ELPC20I

Overview

XC17256ELPC20I 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 reconfiguration of Spartan and Virtex family FPGAs.

For engineers reviewing the XC17256ELPC20I datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection factors include 5 V supply compatibility, 20 ns read access timing, industrial-grade reliability, and direct support for Xilinx FPGA master serial mode configuration.

Technical Context

This PROM stores bitstream data for Xilinx FPGAs and delivers it on power-up via synchronous serial interface using CCLK as the clock source. It supports Master Serial mode only and requires no external address decoding logic.

Internal organization is 32K × 8 bits, with CE# and OE# active-low control inputs enabling memory selection and output gating. Data retention exceeds 20 years at +85°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

20-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP) with 0.3-inch body width and standard through-hole footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with XC17256EPC20C and ATMEL AT27C256R-20PU, the XC17256ELPC20I uniquely combines industrial temperature rating, 20-pin DIP compatibility, and native Xilinx Master Serial timing - making it the only option requiring zero PCB changes for legacy industrial FPGA designs.

Availability

XC17256ELPC20I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, test & measurement, and military communications requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for XC17256ELPC20I 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 (formerly Xilinx's configuration PROM supplier) designs and manufactures nonvolatile configuration memory for programmable logic devices.

The XC17xxx series was developed specifically to support Xilinx FPGA configuration in Master Serial and SelectMAP modes, targeting industrial and aerospace applications where reliability and long-term supply stability are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the XC17256ELPC20I in an FPGA system?

The XC17256ELPC20I stores and delivers FPGA configuration bitstreams during power-up. It operates in Master Serial mode, driving data onto Q0–Q7 synchronously with the FPGA's CCLK signal. The XC17256ELPC20I eliminates the need for external controllers by directly interfacing with Spartan and early Virtex FPGAs, ensuring autonomous, repeatable initialization without host processor intervention.

Does the XC17256ELPC20I support SelectMAP configuration mode?

No, the XC17256ELPC20I supports Master Serial mode only. It lacks the bidirectional data bus and control signals required for SelectMAP. The XC17256ELPC20I is optimized for simple, single-direction bitstream delivery using CCLK-synchronized reads. For SelectMAP functionality, designers must select other members of the XC17xxx family explicitly rated for that mode.

Can the XC17256ELPC20I be programmed in-system?

No, the XC17256ELPC20I is a one-time programmable (OTP) PROM and cannot be reprogrammed after initial programming. It requires external EPROM programmers with 20-pin DIP sockets and 5 V VPP programming voltage. The XC17256ELPC20I is intended for final bitstream storage after FPGA design validation, not iterative development.

What is the significance of the 'L' in XC17256ELPC20I?

The 'L' in XC17256ELPC20I denotes industrial temperature grade (–40°C to +85°C). This distinguishes it from commercial-grade variants like XC17256EPC20C (0°C to +70°C). The XC17256ELPC20I undergoes extended temperature screening and burn-in, ensuring parametric stability and data retention across the full industrial range - a requirement for deployed systems outside climate-controlled environments.

Is the XC17256ELPC20I pin-compatible with earlier XC17xx series PROMs?

Yes, the XC17256ELPC20I maintains identical pinout and timing behavior with other 20-pin XC17256x variants, including XC17256EPC20C and XC17256LPC20I. All share the same A0–A14 address mapping, Q0–Q7 data outputs, and CCLK/CE#/OE# control interface. The XC17256ELPC20I can replace these parts without PCB modification, provided industrial temperature operation is required.