A42MX24-PQG160M

Overview

The A42MX24-PQG160M is a non-volatile Flash-based Field Programmable Gate Array from the Microchip MX family. It provides 36,000 system gates and 912 logic elements within a 160-pin PQFP package. The device operates on dual voltage supplies: 3.3V (3.0V to 3.6V) for core logic and 5.0V (4.75V to 5.25V) for I/O interfaces. It features 125 user-accessible I/O pins and supports industrial temperature ranges. The architecture utilizes SRAM-based configuration stored in external Flash, enabling instant-on functionality without external configuration memory.

Feature Summary

• Instant-on operation capability due to integration with external non-volatile Flash configuration memory
• Supports deterministic timing through user-controllable clock routing and fixed pin assignments
• Includes Silicon Explorer II for unique in-system diagnostic and debugging capabilities
• Compliant with IEEE 1149.1 JTAG boundary scan standards for verification

Applications

• Automotive electronic control units requiring ASIC alternatives
• Industrial automation controllers needing deterministic logic performance
• Aerospace and defense systems utilizing radiation-tolerant or high-reliability programmable logic
• Test and measurement equipment requiring flexible digital signal processing

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'M' against official Microchip documentation to confirm if it denotes a military grade variant or specific packaging specification. Confirm RoHS compliance status as some MX family variants may differ. Check for End-of-Life notifications or Production Discontinuance Notices, as older Flash FPGA families are frequently subject to obsolescence management. Ensure compatibility with existing PCB footprints for the 160-pin PQFP form factor.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a non-volatile, instant-on FPGA solution is required for applications replacing custom ASICs. Compare gate density and I/O count against similar MX series devices like the A42MX16 or A42MX36. Evaluate power consumption requirements, noting that Flash-based FPGAs typically have different static and dynamic power profiles compared to SRAM-based counterparts. Verify voltage level compatibility between the 3.3V core and 5.0V I/O domains with the target system interface.

Part Context

The A42MX24 belongs to the Actel/Microchip MX family of Flash FPGAs, designed primarily as low-power, non-volatile alternatives to ASICs. These devices are known for their security features, as the configuration data remains intact without power. The PQG160 package indicates a Plastic Quad Flat Package with 160 leads, suitable for surface-mount assembly in space-constrained designs.

Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements may include other members of the A42MX24 series with different speed grades or packages, such as A42MX24-3PQG160. Cross-family migration to newer Microchip PolarFire or Igloo2 FPGAs is possible but requires significant design re-verification due to architectural differences.