A42MX24-3PQG160I

Overview

The A42MX24-3PQG160I is a non-volatile Flash-based Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the Microchip MX family, designed as a single-chip ASIC alternative for automotive applications. It features 36,000 system gates and 912 logic elements within a 160-pin PQFP package. The device operates with a supply voltage range of 4.75 V to 5.25 V and supports 3.3 V or 5 V I/O levels. It includes up to 2.5 kbits of configurable dual-port SRAM and fast wide-decode circuitry. The component supports IEEE Standard 1149.1 JTAG boundary scan testing and offers deterministic timing with user-controllable constraints.

Feature Summary

• Non-volatile Flash architecture eliminates the need for external configuration memory.
• Supports 100% resource utilization and 100% pin fixing for direct ASIC replacement.
• Includes unique in-system diagnostic capability via Silicon Explorer II.
• Features deterministic, user-controllable timing suitable for safety-critical designs.

Applications

• Automotive electronic control units requiring ASIC-level reliability.
• Industrial control systems needing deterministic timing and high I/O counts.
• Aerospace and defense electronics utilizing radiation-tolerant or high-reliability programmable logic.

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'I' indicates industrial temperature rating compliance against the official datasheet. Confirm RoHS status and REACH compliance details directly from the manufacturer's documentation. Check for End-of-Life notifications or production discontinuance notices, as older MX series devices may have limited availability. Ensure the PQFP-160 package dimensions match the target PCB footprint requirements.

Selection Notes

Select this model when a non-volatile FPGA with high gate density and significant I/O count is required without external configuration flash. Compare against the A42MX24-3PQG160 if commercial temperature range suffices. Consider the A42MX16 or A42MX09 variants if lower gate counts are acceptable for cost reduction. Verify that the 5V operation aligns with the system power rails, as newer low-voltage FPGAs may require level shifting.

Part Context

This part belongs to the Microchip Actel MX family of Flash-based FPGAs, originally developed by Actel before its acquisition by Microsemi and subsequently Microchip. The MX series is distinguished by its non-volatile Flash technology, which allows for instant-on functionality and simplified board design by removing external configuration chips. The A42MX24 represents a mid-to-high density option within this legacy portfolio, offering substantial logic resources for complex digital logic implementations.

Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitute part numbers: A42MX24-3PQG160, A42MX24-2PQG160I.