A42MX36-PQG208A

Overview

The A42MX36-PQG208A is a high-performance Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the Microchip MX series, designed for complex digital logic applications. It features approximately 54,000 system gates and 1,184 Logic Elements, providing substantial programmable capacity within a single integrated circuit. The device supports dual-voltage operation, accommodating both 3.3V and 5V power supplies to ensure compatibility with diverse legacy and modern systems. It offers 176 general-purpose I/O pins, facilitating extensive connectivity for peripheral interfaces. Packaged in a 208-pin PQFP format, this component is engineered for surface-mount assembly, balancing high pin count with manageable footprint dimensions for dense PCB layouts.

Feature Summary

• Supports flexible voltage operation across standard 3.3V and 5V supply rails for broad system integration.
• Provides high-density programmable logic resources suitable for complex sequential and combinational circuits.
• Features a robust array of general-purpose input/output pins to support multiple communication protocols.

Applications

• Industrial control systems requiring reliable logic processing
• Automotive electronics interfaces and instrumentation
• Telecommunications equipment signal processing

Procurement Notes

Verify the exact suffix against official Microchip documentation to confirm temperature grade and speed bin specifications. Confirm current availability status as end-of-life notices may apply to specific variants within the MX family. Ensure compliance with RoHS directives relevant to your region before finalizing procurement orders.

Selection Notes

Compare the A42MX36 against lower-capacity models like the A42MX24 if resource utilization is low. Evaluate the A42MX36-1 or -2 speed grades if timing constraints exceed the standard grade capabilities. Consider package alternatives such as CQFP if leadless mounting is preferred over the PQFP style.

Part Context

This component belongs to the Actel/Microchip MX family of flash-based FPGAs, known for non-volatile configuration and radiation tolerance. It serves as a mid-range solution bridging simple CPLDs and larger ASIC-like FPGA structures, offering reprogrammability without the complexity of volatile SRAM-based devices.

Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements are limited due to the specific gate count and package combination. Check for updated speed grades within the same A42MX36 family. Cross-reference with A42MX36-1PQG208A or A42MX36-2PQG208A for performance variations, ensuring pinout compatibility remains identical.