A54SX16A-FGG256M

Overview

The A54SX16A-FGG256M is a Field Programmable Gate Array from the SX-A family, featuring 24,000 system gates and 180 user-programmable I/O pins. It utilizes 0.22 μm / 0.25 μm CMOS antifuse technology with a standard operating voltage of 2.5 V (range 2.25 V to 2.75 V). The device supports a maximum system performance frequency of 250 MHz and an internal clock frequency of 350 MHz. It is housed in a 256-pin Fine Pitch Ball Grid Array (FBGA) package and offers an industrial temperature grade range of -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Nonvolatile single-chip solution using metal-to-metal programmable antifuse interconnect elements for permanent low-impedance connections.
• Supports hot-swap compliant I/Os allowing power-up/down without sequencing requirements for supply voltages.
• Includes dedicated global clock networks (HCLK, CLKA, CLKB) and segmented routing resources for deterministic timing.
• Provides IEEE 1149.1 (JTAG) boundary-scan testing capabilities with flexible or dedicated pin modes.

Applications

• High-performance logic integration replacing complex CPLDs or gate arrays
• Systems requiring deterministic timing and fast counters or state machines
• Applications needing mixed-voltage I/O operation with 5V input tolerance

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix 'M' against official Microchip documentation to confirm its exact definition regarding packaging or qualification. Confirm current availability status as legacy antifuse products may have limited production runs. Ensure compliance with RoHS directives if required by the application environment.

Selection Notes

Select this device when 24,000 system gates and 180 I/Os are sufficient for the design. Consider the FBGA256 package for high-density board layouts. Verify that the 250 MHz system speed meets the timing constraints. Check if the industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) aligns with environmental requirements.

Part Context

This component belongs to the Actel SX-A family of FPGAs, which were originally developed by Actel Corporation and later acquired by Microsemi (now part of Microchip Technology). The SX-A series is characterized by its antifuse-based nonvolatile architecture, offering high reliability and security compared to SRAM-based FPGAs.

Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-compatible replacements within the same package and speed grade are not explicitly listed in the provided datasheet. Designers should evaluate other devices in the A54SX16A series with different speed grades or temperature codes, or consider higher-capacity devices like the A54SX32A if resource expansion is acceptable.

FAQ

What is the difference between HCLK and CLKA/CLKB?

HCLK is a hardwired clock network connected directly to the clock select multiplexor in each R-cell, providing the fastest propagation path but cannot be connected to combinatorial logic. CLKA and CLKB are routed global clocks that can be sourced from external pins or internal logic and can drive both sequential and combinational cells.

How does the FuseLock feature enhance security?

FuseLock prevents reverse engineering and unauthorized reading of the design. It uses special security fuses hidden throughout the fabric to prevent internal probing and overwriting, making invasive and noninvasive attacks ineffective against the antifuse FPGA.

Can unused I/O pins be left floating?

No, unused I/O pins must not be left floating. They should be configured as tristate outputs by the software or tied to a defined logic level (Low or High) on the board to ensure proper operation and prevent excessive current draw or noise.