XC2S200-5FG256I Guide: Spartan-2 FPGA Features and Applications
1.0 XC2S200-5FG256I Specs: Features and Applications
In the 2026 industrial automation and aerospace maintenance landscape, the XC2S200-5FG256I (AMD Xilinx) remains an indispensable component. As a 200,000-system-gate Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) built on a 0.18µm process, the Spartan-2 family continues to power long-lifecycle equipment, including avionics controllers, telecom switches, and high-precision CNC machinery.
While modern 7-Series and UltraScale FPGAs handle high-speed AI tasks, the XC2S200-5FG256I is the "gold standard" for maintaining systems that require 2.5V/3.3V I/O tolerance and deterministic logic timing. For US-based defense contractors and repair facilities tasked with maintaining legacy hardware, securing verified XC2S200 stock is critical to avoiding costly redesigns. Access full technical datasheets and pinout maps at aichiplink.com.
1.1 Industrial Temperature Rating: The "I-Temp" Operational Margin
The "I" suffix in XC2S200-5FG256I designates the Industrial Temperature grade. Unlike commercial-grade variants (0°C to +85°C), this chip is validated to operate across -40°C to +100°C TJ.
For critical infrastructure deployed in unconditioned outdoor cabinets or high-vibration military environments, this expanded thermal range ensures that timing margins do not drift under extreme ambient conditions.
2.0 Architecture Deep Dive: 5,292 Logic Cells and Block RAM
The XC2S200-5FG256I delivers a balanced logic-to-memory ratio for mid-density control applications:
- Logic Cells: 5,292
- CLB Array: 28 x 42 (1,176 Configurable Logic Blocks)
- Block RAM: 56Kb distributed across multiple independent blocks
- Max User I/O: Up to 176 I/O pins in the FG256 footprint
2.1 Pinout & Package: Navigating the Fine-Pitch BGA (FG256) Layout
Housed in a 256-ball Fine-Pitch Ball Grid Array (FG256) measuring 17mm x 17mm with a 1.0mm ball pitch, this package provides superior thermal dissipation and lower signal inductance compared to older PQFP packaging options.
3.0 Critical Sourcing Alert: Managing Obsolete FPGA Risk in 2026
Procurement Warning: As part of the mature Spartan-2 lineup, the XC2S200-5FG256I is officially classified as Obsolete / End-of-Life (EOL) by AMD Xilinx.
Because standard franchise distributors no longer hold factory buffer stock, US buyers must navigate the independent spot market. The main risk in 2026 is not just availability—it is the influx of "refurbished," "re-balled," or remarketed lower-speed parts (e.g., re-marking a -4 speed grade as a faster -5 grade).
| Attribute | Technical Specification |
|---|---|
| Part Number | XC2S200-5FG256I |
| Family | Spartan-2 |
| System Gates | 200,000 |
| Speed Grade | -5 (Standard Speed) |
| Package / Case | 256-FBGA (17x17mm) |
| I/O Voltage Tolerance | 1.5V, 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +100°C (TJ) |
4.0 Pricing & Quality Control: Avoiding Re-Balled Chips in the US Market
To protect your manufacturing lines from premature field failures, sourcing legacy FPGAs requires rigorous quality verification.
"In the 2026 spot market, authentic, New Unused Stock (NUS) of the XC2S200-5FG256I commands a unit price between $45.00 and $85.00 USD depending on lot quantity and traceability certification.
At aichiplink.com, we specialization in sourcing verified, legacy AMD Xilinx FPGAs with full anti-counterfeit testing reports to support long-term MRO contracts in North America.
Conclusion
The XC2S200-5FG256I remains a vital legacy component for maintaining mission-critical industrial and defense electronics in 2026. Its 200,000-gate capacity, robust 3.3V I/O tolerance, and wide industrial operating temperature make it irreplaceable in existing system backplanes. As factory production has ceased, partner with trusted sourcing experts who prioritize full visual and electrical testing to ensure your legacy systems remain operational without interruption.
Written by Jack Elliott from AIChipLink.
AIChipLink, one of the fastest-growing global independent electronic components distributors in the world, offers millions of products from thousands of manufacturers, and many of our in-stock parts is available to ship same day.
We mainly source and distribute integrated circuit (IC) products of brands such as Broadcom, Microchip, Texas Instruments, Infineon, NXP, Analog Devices, Qualcomm, Intel, etc., which are widely used in communication & network, telecom, industrial control, new energy and automotive electronics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the "-5" in XC2S200-5FG256I stand for?
The "-5" represents the **Speed Grade**. In the Spartan-2 family, -5 indicates standard performance, while -6 offers faster switching times for higher-frequency clock networks.
Can I substitute XC2S200-5FG256C for XC2S200-5FG256I?
The "C" version is Commercial grade (0°C to +85°C). While pin-compatible, it should NOT be used in industrial or military applications that require the lower -40°C operating limit of the "I" (Industrial) version.
Is the FG256 package drop-in compatible with the PQ208 package?
No. The FG256 is a Ball Grid Array (BGA), while the PQ208 is a Plastic Quad Flat Pack (PQFP). They require entirely different PCB layouts.