AMD XC3S50A-4FT256C

Overview

XC3S50A-4FT256C from AMD (formerly Xilinx) is a Spartan-3A FPGA with 50,000 system gates, 176 logic cells, and 128 KB of total block RAM. It features 191 user I/Os, operates at -4 speed grade (1.2 V core, 1.2–3.3 V I/O), and targets low-cost embedded control and interface bridging applications.

For engineers reviewing the XC3S50A-4FT256C datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include I/O voltage flexibility, embedded RAM depth, logic cell count, and FT256 package thermal performance in space-constrained industrial controllers.

Technical Context

The XC3S50A-4FT256C implements a fully configurable logic fabric based on 4-input LUTs and distributed RAM, with dedicated carry chains for arithmetic. It integrates twelve 18×18 multipliers and supports SelectIO standards including LVCMOS, LVTTL, PCI, and SSTL.

Configuration is performed via master serial mode using external PROM or JTAG, with internal startup circuitry enabling automatic configuration after power-up. The device supports boundary-scan testing per IEEE 1149.1 and includes internal oscillator for configuration clock generation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

XC3S50A-4FT256C is housed in a 256-pin Fine-Pitch Ball Grid Array (FTBGA) package with 1.0 mm pitch, 17 mm × 17 mm body size, and exposed thermal pad for enhanced heat dissipation in continuous-operation environments.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar FPGA-based interface and control applications.

Compared with XC3S50A-4FT256C, XC3S100A-4FT256C extends logic capacity within identical board footprint, while XC6SLX9-2FTG256C introduces hardened memory controllers and PCIe-enabling migration to higher-performance embedded systems without PCB redesign.

Availability

XC3S50A-4FT256C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, test instrumentation, and automotive diagnostics requiring stable component supply across extended production cycles.

Supply support for XC3S50A-4FT256C 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 leads in adaptive computing solutions, delivering FPGA, ACAP, and software-defined hardware platforms.

The Spartan-3A family was designed for cost-sensitive, high-volume embedded applications requiring reliable programmable logic with low static power and flexible I/O standards.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the XC3S50A-4FT256C?

The XC3S50A-4FT256C is rated at speed grade -4, guaranteeing 333 MHz register-to-register performance under worst-case voltage and temperature conditions. Actual achievable frequency depends on design placement, routing, and logic depth-but the -4 grade ensures timing closure for synchronous logic running at ≤333 MHz without additional pipelining. XC3S50A-4FT256C does not specify a single "maximum clock" due to architecture-dependent path delays.

Does the XC3S50A-4FT256C support JTAG programming?

Yes, the XC3S50A-4FT256C fully supports IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary-scan and in-system programming via TCK, TMS, TDI, and TDO pins. JTAG enables configuration bitstream loading, debug access, and manufacturing test without requiring external PROM. XC3S50A-4FT256C also uses JTAG for device identification and internal register readback during development.

Can the XC3S50A-4FT256C operate with 5 V tolerant I/Os?

No, the XC3S50A-4FT256C does not support 5 V tolerant I/Os. Its I/O banks accept 1.2 V, 1.5 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, or 3.3 V signaling only. Direct connection to 5 V logic requires external level-shifting circuitry. XC3S50A-4FT256C datasheet explicitly prohibits applying >3.465 V to any I/O pin-even in high-impedance state-to prevent damage.

What configuration modes are supported by the XC3S50A-4FT256C?

The XC3S50A-4FT256C supports Master Serial (via external PROM), Slave Serial, JTAG, and Boundary Scan configuration modes. Master Serial is most common for standalone operation, using an external 4-Mbit PROM. XC3S50A-4FT256C automatically detects mode at power-up based on M[2:0] pin states and includes internal oscillator to drive configuration clock when no external source is present.

Is the XC3S50A-4FT256C RoHS compliant?

Yes, the XC3S50A-4FT256C is RoHS compliant and lead-free, meeting EU Directive 2011/65/EU requirements. The FT256 package uses matte tin finish on solder balls and contains no restricted substances above threshold limits. XC3S50A-4FT256C documentation confirms compliance for both commercial (C) and industrial (I) temperature grades.