A42MX36-BG272

Overview

The A42MX36-BG272 is a high-capacity Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the Microchip MX family, designed as a single-chip ASIC alternative. It features 54,000 system gates and 1,184 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs). The device includes up to 2.5 kbits of configurable dual-port SRAM for embedded memory applications. It supports mixed-voltage operation with I/Os compatible with both 3.3V and 5.0V supplies, ensuring PCI compliance. The component utilizes a 272-pin Plastic Ball Grid Array (BGA) package.

Feature Summary

• Supports mixed-voltage operation allowing core and I/Os to function at either 3.3V or 5.0V levels.
• Provides deterministic, user-controllable timing with up to 100% resource utilization and pin locking capabilities.
• Offers HiRel features including availability in commercial, industrial, automotive, and military temperature grades.

Applications

• High-density digital logic replacement for Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs)
• PCI-compliant interface designs requiring mixed-voltage support
• Military and aerospace systems utilizing ceramic packages with QML certification

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix of the part number against official Microchip documentation, as variations may indicate different speed grades, temperature ranges, or packaging types. Confirm current production status, as many devices in the A42MX series have reached end-of-life or obsolescence phases. Ensure compatibility with existing design tools and programming cables before procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this model when 54,000 system gates and 1,184 CLBs are required within a 272-pin BGA footprint. Consider the A42MX36 series for applications needing mixed 3.3V/5.0V I/O flexibility without level shifters. Evaluate thermal requirements carefully, as performance varies between commercial and military temperature variants available in the family.

Part Context

This component belongs to the Actel/Microchip MX FPGA family, which bridges the gap between standard PLDs and complex FPGAs. The A42MX36 variant specifically targets high-performance applications previously served by ASICs. It shares architectural similarities with the A40MX and A42MX families but offers distinct gate counts and I/O configurations tailored for dense logic implementations.

Replacement Considerations

Publicly confirmed substitute part numbers for the exact A42MX36-BG272 configuration are not available in the provided source data. Designers should consult Microchip's official obsolescence notices for recommended migration paths or equivalent capacity devices within the PolarFire or IGloo2 families if the MX series is discontinued.