A42MX09-VQ100

Overview

The A42MX09-VQ100 is a Flash-based Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the Microchip MX series, manufactured by Actel. It features 336 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs), equivalent to 14,000 system gates, and supports up to 104 user-programmable I/O pins. The device operates with a core voltage of 5.0V or 3.3V and includes up to 2.5 kbits of configurable dual-port SRAM. It offers a maximum clock frequency of 70.2 MHz with a CLB combinational delay of 3.5 ns. The component is housed in a 100-pin Plastic Quad Flat Package (PQFP) or VQFP variant, supporting mixed-voltage operation and PCI-compliant I/Os.

Feature Summary

• Single-chip ASIC alternative capability with high-capacity logic resources and deterministic timing.
• Mixed-voltage operation support allowing 5.0V or 3.3V for both core and I/O supplies.
• Configurable dual-port SRAM integration for flexible memory management.
• Fast wide-decode circuitry enabling efficient logic implementation.

Applications

• Replacement for complex discrete logic or standard ASICs in industrial control systems.
• Prototyping and low-volume production for embedded applications requiring reconfigurability.
• Interfaces and protocol conversion in automotive and commercial electronics.
• Logic expansion and glue logic replacement in mixed-signal designs.

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific package suffix against the required form factor, as the model designation may correspond to either PQFP-100 or VQFP-100 variants depending on the manufacturer's coding convention. Confirm the operating temperature grade matches the application environment, as the MX series spans commercial, industrial, and military ranges. Ensure compatibility with the design tool suite, such as Libero SoC, for programming and configuration. Check for RoHS compliance status if environmental regulations apply to the final assembly.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a non-volatile, flash-based FPGA solution is required to eliminate external configuration memory. Compare gate counts and I/O availability against similar devices in the A42MX series or the newer PolarFire family for power efficiency. Consider the pin count and package size constraints relative to the PCB layout. Evaluate the need for mixed-voltage I/O capabilities if interfacing with legacy 5V components alongside modern 3.3V logic.

Part Context

The A42MX09 belongs to the Actel MX family of Flash FPGAs, which were acquired by Microchip Technology. This series is characterized by its instant-on capability due to embedded Flash technology, removing the need for boot PROMs. The MX family bridges the gap between simple programmable logic devices and complex SoCs, offering a balance of performance, power consumption, and ease of use for mid-range logic applications.

Replacement Considerations

Direct substitutes within the same family include the A42MX08 and A42MX22, which offer different gate densities but share similar architecture and pinouts where applicable. For upgraded performance, the A42MX16 provides increased logic resources. Cross-family migration to Microchip's PolarFire or IGLOO2 series may be necessary for enhanced security features or lower power consumption, though these require design adaptation.