Lattice LFXP2-17E-5QN208C: A Comprehensive Technical Overview of the Low-Power FPGA
The Lattice LFXP2-17E-5QN208C is a member of Lattice Semiconductor's LatticeXP2 family, a series of non-volatile, low-power FPGAs engineered to bridge the gap between high-performance and low-cost programmable logic. This specific device encapsulates a compelling blend of non-volatile technology, remarkably low static power consumption, and a feature-rich architecture, making it an ideal solution for a wide array of power-sensitive and space-constrained applications.
Architectural Core and Logic Capacity
At the heart of the LFXP2-17E lies a flexible programmable logic fabric. The device features 17,000 Look-Up Tables (LUTs), which serve as the fundamental building blocks for implementing complex digital logic functions. This logic density is sufficient for a broad range of designs, from glue logic and system control to more complex state machines and data path processing. The logic is organized in a efficient architecture that supports high utilization and maintains performance.
Key Differentiator: Non-Volatile Flash Technology
A defining characteristic of this FPGA is its integrated non-volatile Flash cell technology. Unlike SRAM-based FPGAs that require an external boot PROM to load configuration data on every power-up, the LFXP2-17E is instant-on. Its configuration is stored directly on-chip, enabling extremely fast startup times—typically in microseconds. This eliminates the need for external configuration memory, reducing both board space and total system cost. Furthermore, the flash technology offers high immunity to radiation-induced configuration upsets, a critical advantage in harsh environments.
Ultra-Low Power Consumption
The LFXP2 family is renowned for its power efficiency, and the -5QN208C variant is no exception. It boasts exceptionally low static power consumption, often measured in microamps (µA) for standby modes. This makes it particularly suited for battery-operated and portable devices where extending battery life is paramount. Dynamic power is also managed effectively through advanced silicon design, ensuring overall system power budgets are maintained.
Advanced Feature Set
Beyond the core fabric, this device is equipped with dedicated hard IP blocks that enhance its functionality and ease of use:
Embedded Block RAM (EBR): It contains 114 kbits of sysMEM™ embedded block RAM, organized in 9 kb blocks. This memory is essential for implementing FIFOs, buffers, and other memory functions without consuming precious logic resources.
sysDSP Slices: The inclusion of dedicated sysDSP slices allows for efficient implementation of arithmetic functions like multipliers and accumulators, accelerating digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms.
Flexible I/O Support: The device features 158 user I/Os supporting a wide range of single-ended and differential I/O standards, including LVCMOS, LVTTL, SSTL, HSTL, and LVDS. This flexibility allows for seamless interfacing with processors, memory devices, and other peripherals.
Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs): Four integrated PLLs provide robust clock management, enabling clock synthesis, multiplication, division, and phase shifting, which is crucial for synchronous system design.
Package and Applications
The "5QN208C" suffix denotes a 5mm x 5mm, lead-free (Pb-free), 208-ball Quad Flat No-lead (QFN) package. This compact package is designed for high-density PCB designs, making the device an excellent choice for applications where miniaturization is a critical factor.
Typical application areas include:
Portable Medical Devices
Consumer Electronics
Industrial Control and Automation
Communications Infrastructure (for control plane management)
System Management and Hardware Security
The Lattice LFXP2-17E-5QN208C stands out as a highly integrated and power-optimized FPGA solution. Its unique combination of non-volatile instant-on capability, low static power, and a rich set of embedded features in a miniature package provides designers with a powerful tool for creating efficient, reliable, and cost-effective end products. It successfully addresses the critical design challenges of power, space, and security in modern electronic systems.
Keywords:
Low-Power FPGA
Non-Volatile Flash Technology
Instant-On Configuration
Miniaturized QFN Package
Embedded Block RAM
