AMD XC3S250E-4PQG208C
- Part No.:
- XC3S250E-4PQG208C
- Manufacturer:
- AMD
- Category:
- FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Array)
- Package:
- 208-BFQFP
- Datasheet:
-
XC3S250E-4PQG208C.pdf
- Description:
- IC FPGA 158 I/O 208QFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:324
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Product details
Overview
XC3S250E-4PQG208C from AMD (formerly Xilinx) is a Spartan-3E FPGA with 250K system gates, 472 logic cells, 216 I/O pins, and embedded block RAM totaling 256 kbits. It operates at -4 speed grade (4.9 ns CLB delay), packaged in a 208-pin PQFP with lead-free finish, and targets low-cost industrial control and communication interface logic.
For engineers reviewing the XC3S250E-4PQG208C datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection factors include I/O count, block RAM depth, speed grade timing closure, and PQFP thermal performance in space-constrained PCB layouts.
Technical Context
The XC3S250E-4PQG208C implements a hierarchical FPGA architecture with configurable logic blocks (CLBs), distributed RAM, and dedicated multipliers. It supports SelectIO standards including LVCMOS, LVTTL, PCI, and SSTL-2, with programmable slew rate and drive strength per I/O bank.
Configuration is performed via Master Serial mode using external PROM or JTAG boundary-scan. The device includes Digital Clock Managers (DCMs) for clock synthesis, phase shifting, and duty cycle correction across up to four independent clock domains.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Logic Cells | 472 - defines maximum combinational/sequential logic capacity for custom digital functions |
| System Gates | 250,000 - indicates relative logic density benchmarked against ASIC gate count |
| Block RAM | 256 kbits - provides on-chip memory for FIFOs, buffers, or small lookup tables without external SRAM |
| I/O Pins | 216 - supports high-pin-count peripheral interfacing with bank-wise voltage and standard assignment |
| Speed Grade | -4 - guarantees 4.9 ns CLB propagation delay; critical for meeting setup/hold timing at 100 MHz system clocks |
| Package | PQFP-208 - 28 × 28 mm body, 0.5 mm pitch; enables manual rework and cost-effective PCB assembly |
Pinout & Package
XC3S250E-4PQG208C is housed in a 208-pin Plastic Quad Flat Package (PQFP) with exposed thermal pad, JEDEC MS-026 compliant, and RoHS-compliant lead-free finish. Pin numbering follows standard counter-clockwise sequence starting from top-left corner marker.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| G1 | VCCO_0 | I/O bank 0 power supply - must be decoupled locally to maintain signal integrity for LVCMOS33 outputs |
| K1 | GND | Ground reference - connects to internal substrate plane and requires low-inductance PCB stitching vias |
| T1 | PROGRAM_B | Active-low configuration initiation - pulled high externally to enable automatic startup after power-on |
| R2 | DONE | Open-drain status indicator - goes high-Z when configuration completes successfully |
| M3 | CCLK | Configuration clock input - driven by PROM or master controller; max 50 MHz during slave serial mode |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Digital Clock Manager (DCM) | Two DCMs per device - enable jitter reduction, frequency synthesis, and phase alignment without external PLL ICs |
| SelectIO Technology | Per-bank I/O standards - allows mixed-voltage interfaces (e.g., 3.3V CPU + 2.5V memory) on same device |
| Embedded Multipliers | 12 × 18-bit hard multipliers - accelerate DSP algorithms like FIR filtering without consuming logic resources |
| Boundary-Scan Support | IEEE 1149.1 compliant - enables in-circuit testing and JTAG programming without dedicated test fixtures |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Logic | Serial Protocol Bridge |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Real-time I/O scanning and ladder logic execution in compact programmable logic controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Configurable state machine and parallel I/O controller with deterministic 10–50 µs scan cycle latency. Use Value: Replaces multiple discrete glue logic ICs while supporting field-upgradable control firmware via JTAG. | Use Scenario: Translation between RS-232, RS-485, and SPI peripherals in building automation gateways. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Protocol-aware bridge with dual UART cores and synchronous SPI master/slave logic. Use Value: Eliminates microcontroller firmware development overhead for protocol conversion tasks. |
| Video Timing Generator | Legacy Bus Interface |
Use Scenario: Generating VGA/HDMI sync signals and pixel clock division in digital signage controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Pixel clock divider and blanking interval generator using DCM-based clock synthesis. Use Value: Achieves sub-pixel timing accuracy (<1 ns jitter) without external video timing ICs. | Use Scenario: Adapting ISA or PC/104 bus signals to modern ARM-based host processors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Address decoder, wait-state generator, and data-width converter for 8/16-bit legacy peripherals. Use Value: Extends service life of industrial equipment by enabling drop-in replacement of obsolete bus controllers. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar FPGA logic implementation applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| XC3S500E-4PQG208C | 500K gates, 944 logic cells, same package - higher density but increased static current (25 mA vs. 18 mA) | Supports larger state machines and deeper FIFOs; suitable when XC3S250E-4PQG208C resource utilization exceeds 90% | Select if design requires >400 logic cells or >200 kbits block RAM; verify thermal margin with PQFP footprint |
| XC6SLX9-2TQG144C | Spartan-6 family, 9K logic cells, TQFP-144 - smaller package, lower power, but no native DCM (uses PLL only) | Lacks DCM-based phase shift; requires redesign for precise clock alignment in video timing apps | Prefer for new designs needing lower static power and migration path; not drop-in for DCM-dependent timing logic |
Compared with XC3S250E-4PQG208C, the XC3S500E-4PQG208C offers scalable logic headroom within identical footprint and thermal profile, while the XC6SLX9-2TQG144C trades DCM flexibility for reduced power and newer process node - both require functional verification before substitution.
Availability
XC3S250E-4PQG208C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control, protocol bridging, and legacy interface adaptation requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.
Supply support for XC3S250E-4PQG208C 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 maintains the Spartan FPGA product line for cost-sensitive, high-volume embedded applications.
The Spartan-3E family was designed for low-power, low-gate-count programmable logic in industrial, automotive, and communications equipment where ASIC NRE cost is prohibitive.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating frequency of the XC3S250E-4PQG208C?
The XC3S250E-4PQG208C has a -4 speed grade specifying a 4.9 ns CLB propagation delay. This enables reliable operation up to 100 MHz for register-to-register paths under typical conditions. Actual maximum frequency depends on design complexity, routing, and I/O standard selection - verified through post-place-and-route timing analysis in Xilinx ISE.
Does the XC3S250E-4PQG208C support JTAG programming?
Yes, the XC3S250E-4PQG208C fully supports IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary-scan for configuration, debugging, and in-system programming. The TDI, TDO, TMS, and TCK pins are dedicated for this purpose and require no additional configuration logic - JTAG mode is active immediately after power-up.
Can the XC3S250E-4PQG208C be used in automotive applications?
The XC3S250E-4PQG208C is rated for commercial temperature range (0°C to 85°C) and is not qualified to AEC-Q100. It may be used in non-safety-critical automotive infotainment or diagnostics tools, but not in engine control, ADAS, or safety systems where extended temperature or qualification is mandatory.
How much block RAM does the XC3S250E-4PQG208C provide?
The XC3S250E-4PQG208C integrates 256 kbits of total block RAM, organized as thirty-two 18-kbit blocks. Each block can be configured as dual-port RAM, single-port RAM, or 18-bit shift register - usable for buffering, lookup tables, or small instruction memory without external components.
Is there a pin-compatible replacement for the XC3S250E-4PQG208C?
No pin-compatible replacement exists within the Spartan-3E family. The XC3S500E-4PQG208C shares the same 208-pin PQFP package and pinout but requires validation of power delivery and thermal margins due to higher logic density and static current draw.
XC3S250E-4PQG208C Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- AMD
- Series:
- Spartan®-3E
- Package/Case:
- 208-BFQFP
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Number of LABs/CLBs:
- 612
- Number of Logic Elements/Cells:
- 5508
- Total RAM Bits:
- 221184
- Number of I/O:
- 158
- Number of Gates:
- 250000
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.14V ~ 1.26V
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 85°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 208-PQFP (28x28)
XC3S250E-4PQG208C FAQ
1.How can I place an order for XC3S250E-4PQG208C through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for XC3S250E-4PQG208C on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for XC3S250E-4PQG208C reliable?
The price and inventory of XC3S250E-4PQG208C are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for XC3S250E-4PQG208C is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for XC3S250E-4PQG208C?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for XC3S250E-4PQG208C transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for XC3S250E-4PQG208C?
XC3S250E-4PQG208C orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your XC3S250E-4PQG208C order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for XC3S250E-4PQG208C?
For technical support, including XC3S250E-4PQG208C datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your XC3S250E-4PQG208C requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that XC3S250E-4PQG208C is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All XC3S250E-4PQG208C products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that XC3S250E-4PQG208C meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of XC3S250E-4PQG208C?
All XC3S250E-4PQG208C units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with XC3S250E-4PQG208C, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The XC3S250E-4PQG208C part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for XC3S250E-4PQG208C:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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