A42MX16-PQG160M

Overview

The A42MX16-PQG160M is a high-density Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the Microchip MX family, designed as a single-chip ASIC alternative. It features 24,000 system gates and 608 Logic Elements within a 160-pin PQFP package. The device supports mixed-voltage operation with core and I/O voltages of 3.3V or 5.0V, adhering to PCI-compliant standards. Operating specifications include a minimum supply voltage of 4.75V and a maximum of 5.25V for commercial variants, with an industrial grade supporting temperatures from -40°C to +125°C. It provides 125 user-programmable I/O pins and utilizes non-volatile Flash memory technology for instant-on functionality without external configuration devices.

Feature Summary

• Instant-on capability via embedded non-volatile Flash memory eliminates the need for external configuration PROMs.
• Supports mixed-voltage I/O interfaces compatible with both 3.3V and 5.0V logic levels.
• Offers deterministic timing through fast wide-decode circuitry and user-controllable clock paths.
• Includes unique in-system diagnostic capabilities for verification and debugging during operation.

Applications

• Automotive electronic control units requiring robust, single-chip programmable logic solutions.
• Industrial automation systems needing deterministic timing and mixed-voltage interface support.
• Aerospace and defense applications utilizing MIL-STD-883 certified ceramic variants for harsh environments.

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'M' against official Microchip documentation to confirm if it denotes a military-grade temperature range or specific packaging variant, as standard datasheets may list generic PQG160 packages. Confirm RoHS compliance status and moisture sensitivity level prior to PCB assembly planning. Check for active product discontinuation notices or end-of-life notifications, as older MX family parts may have limited availability or require long-term supply agreements.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a design requires 24K system gates with instant-on non-volatile configuration. Ensure the 160-pin PQFP footprint fits the board layout constraints. Verify that the required I/O voltage levels match the device's mixed-voltage capabilities. Consider thermal dissipation requirements for the PQFP package in enclosed enclosures. Evaluate if the 125 available I/O pins meet the interface count for the target application.

Part Context

This part belongs to the Microchip MX FPGA family, which bridges the gap between discrete logic and custom ASICs. The A42MX16 series specifically targets applications needing moderate complexity with high reliability. The PQG160 package indicates a Plastic Quad Flat Package with 160 leads, suitable for surface-mount assembly. This family is known for its radiation tolerance options and extensive diagnostic features compared to standard SRAM-based FPGAs.

Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-to-pin replacements are limited due to the proprietary Flash architecture. Review the A42MX16-PQG160A for potential minor revision differences. For higher capacity needs, consider the A42MX24 series, though pin compatibility must be verified per package. Legacy Actel parts may serve as functional equivalents but require re-verification of electrical characteristics and software toolchain support.