A42MX36-1PQG208I

Overview

The A42MX36-1PQG208I is a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the Microchip MX series, housed in a 208-pin PQFP package. It features 2438 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) and approximately 36,000 system gates. The device supports mixed-voltage operation with supply ranges of 3V to 3.6V for the core and 4.75V to 5.25V for I/Os. It includes up to 2.5 kbits of configurable dual-port SRAM and offers 176 user-programmable I/O pins. The industrial temperature grade ensures reliable performance between -40°C and +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Supports mixed-voltage operation allowing independent 3.3V core and 5.0V I/O configurations.
• Integrates configurable dual-port SRAM for high-speed data buffering and FIFO applications.
• Provides deterministic timing with user-controllable delays and pin locking capabilities.
• Includes in-system diagnostic verification features via Silicon Explorer II.

Applications

• High-speed controllers and address decoding logic
• Peripheral bus interfaces and DSP co-processor functions
• Industrial automation systems requiring wide temperature tolerance

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'I' confirms the industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C). Confirm RoHS compliance status as older Actel/Microsemi batches may vary. Check for End-of-Life notices or Last Time Buy dates, as this component family has faced discontinuation announcements. Ensure the 208-PQFP footprint matches the target PCB design constraints.

Selection Notes

Select this model when 36,000 system gates and 176 I/Os are required within a 208-pin form factor. Choose the '-1' speed grade if maximum clock frequencies around 48MHz are sufficient for the application. Consider the '-I' suffix strictly for environments operating below 0°C. Compare against the A42MX36-2 variant if higher performance speeds near 99MHz are necessary.

Part Context

This part belongs to the 40MX and 42MX FPGA families originally developed by Actel and acquired by Microsemi, now Microchip Technology. These devices serve as single-chip ASIC alternatives, consolidating logic previously implemented in multiple PALs, CPLDs, and FPGAs. The MX architecture is known for low power consumption and non-volatile flash-based configuration.

Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitutes include the A42MX36-2PQG208I for higher speed requirements and the A42MX36-PQG208M for commercial temperature grades. Verify pin compatibility before substitution.