A42MX36-1CQ256M

Overview

The A42MX36-1CQ256M is a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the Microchip MX series, manufactured by Microchip Technology. It features 54,000 system gates and 1,768 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs). The device provides 202 I/O pins and includes 256 bits of embedded RAM. It operates within a supply voltage range of 3V to 3.6V or 4.75V to 5.25V. The component is housed in a 256-pin CQFP package with dimensions of 36mm x 36mm. It supports an industrial operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• High-density logic architecture with 54,000 system gates for complex digital designs.
• Integrated non-volatile flash technology for instant-on configuration without external memory.
• Supports both 3.3V and 5V supply voltages for flexible interface compatibility.

Applications

• Industrial control systems requiring high reliability and instant-on capability.
• Automotive electronics applications needing robust performance across wide temperature ranges.
• Aerospace and defense hardware utilizing radiation-tolerant programmable logic.

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'M' against official Microchip documentation to confirm it denotes a military-grade temperature rating or specific qualification standard, as standard commercial variants typically lack this designation. Confirm current lifecycle status, as MX series components may face obsolescence notices. Ensure RoHS compliance matches project requirements, noting that older stock might differ from current production runs.

Selection Notes

Select this model when a high gate count FPGA with integrated flash is required for space-constrained designs. The 256-pin CQFP package suits applications where through-hole mounting is preferred over surface mount. Compare against the A42MX36-1PQG208 if fewer I/O pins are acceptable for a smaller footprint. Verify that the 202 available I/Os meet the interface requirements of the target system design.

Part Context

This part belongs to the Actel/Microchip MX family of flash-based FPGAs, known for combining SRAM-like flexibility with non-volatile storage. The A42MX36 variant represents the mid-range density option within this series, offering a balance between logic capacity and pin count. It succeeds earlier Actel FPGA lines and integrates proprietary flash technology for secure, instant-on operation.

Replacement Considerations

Direct substitutes include other A42MX36 variants with different packages, such as A42MX36-1PQG208 for QFP packaging. For higher density needs, consider the A42MX64 series. Cross-reference with PolarFire or IGloo2 families for modern alternatives, though pinouts and features will differ significantly.