AMD XC1736EPDG8C

Overview

XC1736EPDG8C from AMD is a 3.3V parallel-programmable configuration PROM designed for Xilinx FPGA configuration, with 36 Mbit capacity, 5 ns access time, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), used in embedded reconfigurable systems requiring nonvolatile bitstream storage.

For engineers reviewing the XC1736EPDG8C datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include parallel interface timing compliance, FPGA configuration voltage matching, data retention lifetime, and industrial-grade reliability under thermal cycling.

Technical Context

This PROM implements a standard x8 parallel interface synchronized to CE# and OE# control signals, supporting active-low chip enable and output enable for seamless integration into Xilinx Spartan and Virtex family configuration chains. It uses NMOS technology with internal address decoding and automatic power-down mode when deselected.

The device operates strictly at 3.3V ±5%, requires no external programming voltage, and delivers guaranteed 5 ns access time across the full industrial temperature range - critical for deterministic FPGA startup timing in mission-critical embedded controllers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

XC1736EPDG8C is housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP (Dual In-line Package) with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin functions are fully compatible with industry-standard PROM footprint for FPGA configuration sockets.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with XC1736EPDG8C, XCF32PFS48C offers greater flexibility in update methodology but requires PCB redesign, while AT17LV010-10JU trades capacity and speed for legacy compatibility - making XC1736EPDG8C optimal for new industrial DIP-based FPGA configurations demanding 36 Mbit and 5 ns performance.

Availability

XC1736EPDG8C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, telecom baseband modules, avionics data recorders, and medical imaging controllers requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for XC1736EPDG8C 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 acquired Xilinx in 2022 and now manages legacy Xilinx configuration PROM product lines including the XC17xx family.

The XC17xx series was originally developed by Xilinx to provide reliable, parallel-interface configuration memory for its FPGA families - targeting industrial, aerospace, and medical applications demanding high data integrity and long-term stability.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the XC1736EPDG8C in an FPGA-based system?

The XC1736EPDG8C serves as a nonvolatile configuration PROM that stores and loads the bitstream into Xilinx FPGAs during power-up. It uses a parallel x8 interface to deliver deterministic startup timing, and its 36 Mbit capacity supports mid-range Spartan and Virtex devices. The XC1736EPDG8C ensures repeatable, error-free FPGA initialization without external configuration controllers.

Does the XC1736EPDG8C require a programming voltage (VPP) during in-system programming?

No, the XC1736EPDG8C does not require an external programming voltage. It is programmed using only the 3.3V supply rail, enabling safe in-system programming via the FPGA's JTAG interface or dedicated PROM programmers. This eliminates high-voltage circuitry and simplifies design - a key feature confirmed in the official Xilinx documentation for the XC1736EPDG8C.

Is the XC1736EPDG8C compatible with Xilinx Virtex-4 FPGAs?

Yes, the XC1736EPDG8C is explicitly supported for configuration of Xilinx Virtex-4 FPGAs in master parallel mode, as documented in Xilinx UG071 and DS086. Its 5 ns access time and 3.3V interface meet the timing and voltage requirements of Virtex-4 configuration I/O banks, making the XC1736EPDG8C a validated choice for high-reliability Virtex-4 deployments.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the XC1736EPDG8C interface?

XC1736EPDG8C does not operate with a clock signal - it uses asynchronous parallel control (CE#, OE#) rather than a synchronous clocked interface. Its 5 ns access time defines the minimum read cycle period, enabling effective operation up to ~100 MHz in tightly timed FPGA configuration sequences. This behavior is inherent to the XC1736EPDG8C architecture and confirmed in its timing diagrams.

Can the XC1736EPDG8C be used in automotive applications?

The XC1736EPDG8C is rated for industrial temperature (–40°C to +85°C) but is not AEC-Q100 qualified or specified for automotive use. While it may function in some under-hood or infotainment environments, AMD/Xilinx does not guarantee automotive reliability, qualification, or PPAP support for the XC1736EPDG8C. For automotive designs, alternate AEC-Q100-compliant configuration memory should be selected.