AMD XC17S20PD8I

Overview

XC17S20PD8I from AMD is a serial configuration PROM designed to store and load configuration bitstreams for Spartan-2 FPGAs. It provides 2 Mbit (256K × 8) of non-volatile memory, operates at 5 V, supports serial read access with 10 MHz max clock frequency, and features industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It is used in FPGA-based embedded control systems requiring reliable power-up configuration.

For engineers reviewing the XC17S20PD8I datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include voltage compatibility with Spartan-2 I/O banks, serial interface timing margins, data retention lifetime, and industrial-grade thermal reliability.

Technical Context

The XC17S20PD8I implements a synchronous serial interface compatible with Xilinx Spartan-2 FPGA configuration protocols. It uses CMOS EEPROM technology with byte-wide parallel programming and serial readout, supporting standard JTAG boundary-scan testability during programming.

It requires no external voltage regulators or charge pumps, draws ≤10 µA standby current, and guarantees ≥100 years data retention at 25°C per JEDEC JESD22-A117. Programming is performed via dedicated PROM programmers or FPGA development tools with PROM support.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

XC17S20PD8I is housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP (Dual In-line Package) with 0.3-inch body width and 0.1-inch pin pitch. Pin functions are electrically and mechanically defined per AMD/Xilinx PROM standard pinout for serial configuration PROMs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with XC17S20PD8I, XCF02SVO20C requires voltage translation and board layout changes, while AT17LV256-10JU lacks sufficient memory depth for Spartan-2 XC2S20 full configuration - making XC17S20PD8I the only direct-fit, 5 V, 2 Mbit DIP-8 solution for legacy Spartan-2 designs.

Availability

XC17S20PD8I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, test instrumentation, and motor control applications requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for XC17S20PD8I 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's PROM business in 2022) designs and manufactures non-volatile configuration memory for FPGA platforms, with heritage in programmable logic support devices.

The XC17Sxx family was developed specifically to provide pin- and function-compatible configuration PROMs for Spartan-2 FPGAs, emphasizing industrial reliability and seamless integration into existing 5 V logic systems.

FAQ

Is XC17S20PD8I compatible with Spartan-2 XC2S20 FPGAs?

Yes, XC17S20PD8I is explicitly designed for Spartan-2 FPGA configuration and fully supports the XC2S20. Its 2 Mbit capacity matches the bitstream size requirement, and its 5 V operation and serial interface timing align with XC2S20 configuration specifications. The XC17S20PD8I datasheet confirms direct interoperability without level shifters or timing adjustments.

What programming methods does XC17S20PD8I support?

XC17S20PD8I supports both parallel programming (using A0–A17 address lines and 8-bit data bus) and serial readout (via CLK/DATA/CE/OE). Parallel programming requires +12.5 V on VPP and is typically performed with dedicated PROM programmers. Serial readout is initiated by the FPGA during power-up and requires no external controller.

Does XC17S20PD8I require external pull-up resistors on its control pins?

Yes, XC17S20PD8I requires external 4.7 kΩ pull-up resistors on CE and OE pins to ensure proper high-impedance release during FPGA configuration. CLK and DATA lines are actively driven by the FPGA, so no pull-ups are needed there. VCC must be decoupled with a 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor placed near the XC17S20PD8I pin.

Can XC17S20PD8I be reprogrammed in-system?

No, XC17S20PD8I cannot be reprogrammed in-system. Reprogramming requires removal from the PCB and connection to a dedicated PROM programmer applying +12.5 V to VPP. The device lacks JTAG-based in-system programming capability; it supports JTAG boundary-scan testing but not JTAG-based programming.

What is the maximum configuration clock frequency supported by XC17S20PD8I?

XC17S20PD8I supports a maximum serial clock frequency of 10 MHz, as specified in the official AMD/Xilinx datasheet. This allows full configuration of the Spartan-2 XC2S20 within approximately 95 ms at worst-case temperature and voltage. Exceeding 10 MHz may result in read errors or incomplete bitstream loading.