Lattice LFXP3C-3TN144I: A Comprehensive Technical Overview of its FPGA Architecture and Target Applications

The Lattice LFXP3C-3TN144I is a member of the LatticeXP3 family, a series of non-volatile FPGAs that combine the programmability of SRAM-based logic with the security and instant-on advantages of flash technology. This device, packaged in a space-efficient 144-pin Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP), is engineered for low-power, cost-sensitive applications requiring reliability and rapid system startup. This article provides a detailed examination of its internal architecture and the primary application domains it serves.

Core FPGA Architecture and Key Features

At the heart of the LFXP3C-3TN144I lies a robust and efficient programmable logic structure. The architecture is built upon a sea of programmable logic cells, interconnected by a global routing hierarchy.

Non-Volatile Flash Core: The defining feature of the LatticeXP3 family is its non-volatile flash cell configuration. Unlike SRAM-based FPGAs that require an external boot PROM, the LFXP3C's configuration is stored directly on-chip. This eliminates the security vulnerability of bitstream interception and provides instant-on functionality upon power-up, a critical requirement for many systems.

Programmable Logic Cells (PFUs): The fundamental logic unit is the Programmable Functional Unit (PFU). Each PFU contains a four-input Look-Up Table (LUT) that can be configured as a distributed RAM or a shift register, complemented by a register/latch and dedicated arithmetic logic for efficient implementation of counters and adders. This flexibility allows for the creation of complex combinatorial and sequential logic.

Embedded Block RAM (sysMEM): The device integrates 18 Kbits of embedded block RAM, configurable as true dual-port memory. These blocks are essential for buffering data, implementing FIFOs, and storing large look-up tables without consuming precious logic resources.

Dedicated sysDSP Blocks: For arithmetic-intensive tasks, the FPGA includes pre-engineered sysDSP slices. These blocks contain a hardwired 18x18 multiplier, an adder, and an accumulator, significantly accelerating digital signal processing (DSP) functions like filtering, FFTs, and encoding while reducing power consumption compared to a soft logic implementation.

System Level Support: The architecture is supported by Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs) for advanced clock management, including frequency synthesis, multiplication, division, and phase shifting. A transparent field reconfiguration mode allows for in-system updates of the logic design without a full power cycle.

Target Applications

The combination of non-volatility, low power, and a balanced mix of logic, memory, and DSP blocks makes the LFXP3C-3TN144I ideal for a wide range of applications.

Industrial Control and Automation: Its immunity to configuration upsets from radiation and noise, instant-on capability, and tolerance for extended temperature ranges make it perfect for industrial control systems, motor control, sensor interfacing, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

Communications and Networking: The device serves well in portable and low-power communications equipment. It is used for bridging interfaces (e.g., SPI to I2C, UART to USB), protocol translation, packet processing, and managing control plane functions in network appliances.

Consumer Electronics: In consumer markets, cost and power are paramount. This FPGA is used to consolidate logic, manage power sequencing, and implement custom user interface logic in products like set-top boxes, digital cameras, and personal media players.

Automotive Electronics: Its non-volatile nature and reliability are assets in automotive applications such as infotainment systems, driver assistance modules, and various sensor fusion and gateway control functions.

Medical Devices: For portable and bedside medical equipment, the low static power consumption and reliable, instant operation are significant advantages. It is used for data acquisition, signal processing from sensors, and system control.

ICGOOODFIND

The Lattice LFXP3C-3TN144I stands out as a highly integrated and reliable solution for designers seeking to balance functionality, power efficiency, and system cost. Its unique non-volatile flash technology provides a critical security and operational advantage, making it a compelling choice for a broad spectrum of industrial, communications, and consumer applications where these attributes are paramount.

Keywords:

Non-Volatile FPGA, Instant-On, Low-Power, Embedded Block RAM, sysDSP