AMD XC17S50AVO8I

Overview

XC17S50AVO8I from AMD (formerly Xilinx) is a serial configuration PROM designed to store and load bitstream data for Spartan-3 FPGAs. It provides 512 Kbit of OTP memory, operates at 3.3 V supply, supports 10 MHz serial read speed, and uses an 8-pin SOIC package. It is used in industrial control systems requiring reliable FPGA reconfiguration.

For engineers reviewing the XC17S50AVO8I datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include OTP memory capacity, 3.3 V compatibility, serial configuration interface timing, and SOIC-8 footprint constraints in space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The XC17S50AVO8I implements a synchronous serial interface compliant with Xilinx's standard PROM configuration protocol for Spartan-3 devices. It features built-in address auto-increment and supports both power-up and manual configuration modes.

It requires no external clock source during read operation - timing is controlled by the FPGA's CCLK signal. Data integrity is ensured via factory-programmed OTP cells with guaranteed 20-year data retention at 85°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

XC17S50AVO8I is housed in an 8-pin Small Outline Integrated Circuit (SOIC) package with standard JEDEC MS-012 dimensions (3.9 mm body width, 1.27 mm pitch). Pin functions are electrically and mechanically defined per Xilinx DS054 specification.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with XC17S50AVO8I, XCF04SVO20C offers higher density and reprogrammability at the cost of larger footprint and added complexity, while AT17LV512-10JU trades OTP security for field update capability - making XC17S50AVO8I optimal for fixed-function, safety-critical deployments.

Availability

XC17S50AVO8I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, medical imaging subsystems, and motor control applications requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for XC17S50AVO8I 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 its legacy FPGA and configuration product lines. Xilinx pioneered SRAM-based FPGA architecture and serial PROM configuration standards.

The XC17Sxx family was developed specifically to provide compact, reliable, and cost-effective configuration memory for Spartan-series FPGAs in industrial and embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the XC17S50AVO8I in an FPGA-based system?

The XC17S50AVO8I serves as a one-time programmable (OTP) serial configuration PROM that stores and delivers the bitstream to Spartan-3 FPGAs during power-up. Its role is to ensure deterministic, repeatable FPGA initialization without external controllers. The XC17S50AVO8I interfaces directly with the FPGA's CCLK and DIN pins using a synchronous serial protocol defined in Xilinx DS054.

Can the XC17S50AVO8I be reprogrammed after initial programming?

No, the XC17S50AVO8I is a one-time programmable device. Its memory cells are permanently programmed during manufacturing or final test using 12.5 V on the VPP pin. Once programmed, the bitstream cannot be altered - this ensures configuration integrity in safety-critical applications. The XC17S50AVO8I does not support in-system programming or erase cycles.

Is the XC17S50AVO8I compatible with Spartan-3E or Spartan-3A FPGAs?

Yes, the XC17S50AVO8I is compatible with Spartan-3, Spartan-3E, and Spartan-3A FPGAs when used in master serial configuration mode. Its timing specifications and command set align with Xilinx's standard PROM interface protocol. However, users must verify bitstream compatibility and address mapping per target FPGA's configuration guide - the XC17S50AVO8I itself imposes no architectural restrictions.

What is the significance of the 'V' and 'I' suffixes in XC17S50AVO8I?

The 'V' denotes 3.3 V operation, and the 'I' indicates industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). These suffixes define the electrical and thermal operating envelope of the XC17S50AVO8I. The 'O8' specifies the 8-pin SOIC package. Together, they confirm the XC17S50AVO8I is rated for ruggedized industrial deployment with standard 3.3 V supply compatibility.

Does the XC17S50AVO8I require external pull-up or pull-down resistors on its control pins?

Per Xilinx DS054, CE and OE pins of the XC17S50AVO8I require external pull-up resistors (typically 4.7 kΩ to VCC) to ensure proper default deassertion during power-up. CLK and DOUT are actively driven by the FPGA and do not require termination. The XC17S50AVO8I datasheet specifies these requirements to prevent undefined states during configuration startup.