A42MX36-1CQ208

Overview

The A42MX36-1CQ208 is a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the Microchip MX family, designed as a single-chip ASIC alternative. It features approximately 54,000 system gates and 2,438 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs). The device supports mixed-voltage operation with core and I/O voltages of 3.3V or 5.0V. It includes up to 2.5 kbits of configurable dual-port SRAM and offers up to 202 user-programmable I/O pins. The component is housed in a 208-pin Plastic Quad Flat Package (PQFP) and operates within a commercial temperature range.

Feature Summary

• Provides high-density logic capacity suitable for replacing multiple PALs, CPLDs, and FPGAs on a single chip.
• Supports mixed-voltage operation allowing flexible integration of 3.3V and 5.0V components with PCI-compliant I/Os.
• Integrates configurable dual-port SRAM for efficient data buffering and FIFO applications.

Applications

• High-speed controllers and address decoding systems
• Peripheral bus interfaces and DSP co-processor functions
• Complex logic consolidation in industrial automation

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix '1C' against official Microchip documentation to confirm the exact speed grade and commercial temperature rating. Confirm package integrity for the 208-PQFP form factor. Check for end-of-life status or obsolescence notices, as older MX family parts may have limited availability. Ensure design files are compatible with current Microchip FPGA tools.

Selection Notes

Select this model when a high gate count solution is required in a plastic QFP package. Compare against the A42MX36-1PQG208 if a finer pitch BGA-style QFP is preferred. Consider the -FCQ variant if ceramic packaging or military temperature ratings are necessary. Verify that the 202 I/O limit meets the interface requirements of the target system design.

Part Context

This part belongs to the Microsemi/Microchip 40MX and 42MX FPGA families, which were established as cost-effective solutions for mid-range logic density. These devices bridge the gap between simple CPLDs and complex FPGAs, offering deterministic timing and high resource utilization. The MX series is known for its fast wide-decode circuitry and ease of integration in mixed-voltage environments.

Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-compatible replacements include other variants within the A42MX36 family such as the A42MX36-1PQG208 or A42MX36-FRQ208I, provided the package type matches. For upgraded performance, newer Microchip PolarFire or IGLOO2 families may be considered, though these require schematic and layout redesigns due to architectural differences.