XA9536XL-15VQG44Q: High-Performance CPLD by AMD Xilinx | 36 Macrocells, 15.5ns Delay
The XA9536XL-15VQG44Q is a cutting-edge Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) engineered by AMD Xilinx to deliver unparalleled performance in embedded system design. This 36-macrocell CPLD operates at a rapid 15.5ns propagation delay, making it perfect for time-critical applications requiring real-time processing. With its compact 44-VQFP package (10x10mm) and 34 programmable I/O pins, this device offers exceptional logic density in a space-efficient form factor. The XA9536XL-15VQG44Q stands out with its 3V to 3.6V operating voltage range, -40 C to 105 C temperature tolerance, and 800-gate capacity, providing designers with robust flexibility for complex digital implementations.
At the heart of the XA9536XL-15VQG44Q lies AMD Xilinx's advanced in-system programmability (ISP) technology, allowing for field updates without physical removal from the circuit board. The device features two logic blocks containing 36 macrocells with programmable AND/OR arrays and individual product-term allocation. Each macrocell can be configured for sequential or combinatorial logic operations, with dedicated clock, reset, and output enable controls. The 15.5ns pin-to-pin delay ensures high-speed operation, while the 3.3V core voltage minimizes power consumption. Security features include programmable bitstream encryption to protect intellectual property, making this CPLD suitable for proprietary designs.
The XA9536XL-15VQG44Q excels in I/O flexibility with its 34 user-configurable pins supporting multiple voltage standards (3.3V LVTTL/LVCMOS). Each I/O bank includes programmable slew rate control and individual tri-state capability. The device incorporates advanced power management with standby currents as low as 50 A, making it ideal for battery-powered applications. Designers will appreciate the predictable timing characteristics enabled by the deterministic CPLD architecture, eliminating the routing delays associated with FPGAs. The integrated JTAG port simplifies system debugging and programming, while the 10,000 program/erase cycle endurance guarantees long-term reliability.
This CPLD finds extensive applications across industries due to its robust feature set. In telecommunications, it handles protocol bridging (UART to SPI), signal conditioning, and packet processing. Industrial systems leverage its real-time capabilities for motor control, PLCs, and sensor interfaces. Medical devices utilize its reliability for patient monitoring and diagnostic equipment. Consumer electronics benefit from its display controller implementations and peripheral interfacing. The device's radiation-tolerant XA qualification makes it suitable for aerospace applications where reliability is paramount. Designers can implement state machines, address decoders, and complex glue logic with equal ease.
AMD Xilinx provides comprehensive development support for the XA9536XL-15VQG44Q through the industry-standard ISE Design Suite. The toolchain offers schematic entry, VHDL/Verilog synthesis, and timing-driven place-and-route optimization. Reference designs and application notes accelerate development cycles, while the mature product lifecycle ensures long-term availability. When compared to competing CPLDs, the XA9536XL-15VQG44Q delivers superior performance-per-watt metrics and better I/O-to-logic ratio. Its non-volatile configuration memory eliminates external boot devices, reducing bill-of-materials costs. For engineers seeking a reliable, high-performance programmable logic solution with 15+ years of proven field operation, the XA9536XL-15VQG44Q represents an optimal balance of speed, density, and power efficiency.
