eX Family FPGAs
Revision 10
1-5
Other Architectural Features
Performance
The combination of architectural features described above enables eX devices to operate with internal
clock frequencies exceeding 350 MHz for very fast execution of complex logic functions. The eX family is
an optimal platform upon which the functionality previously contained in CPLDs can be integrated. eX
devices meet the performance goals of gate arrays, and at the same time, present significant
improvements in cost and time to market. Using timing-driven place-and-route tools, designers can
achieve highly deterministic device performance.
User Security
Microsemi FuseLock advantage provides the highest level of protection in the FPGA industry against
unauthorized modifications. In addition to the inherent strengths of the architecture, special security
fuses that are intended to prevent internal probing and overwriting are hidden throughout the fabric of the
device. They are located such that they cannot be accessed or bypassed without destroying the rest of
the device, making Microsemi antifuse FPGAs highly resistant to both invasive and more subtle
noninvasive attacks.
Look for this symbol to ensure your valuable IP is secure. The FuseLock Symbol on the FPGA ensures
that the device is safeguarded to cryptographic attacks.
I/O Modules
Each I/O on an eX device can be configured as an input, an output, a tristate output, or a bidirectional
pin. Even without the inclusion of dedicated I/O registers, these I/Os, in combination with array registers,
can achieve clock-to-out (pad-to-pad) timing as fast as 3.9 ns. I/O cells in eX devices do not contain
embedded latches or flip-flops and can be inferred directly from HDL code. The device can easily
interface with any other device in the system, which in turn enables parallel design of system
components and reduces overall design time.
All unused I/Os are configured as tristate outputs by Microsemi's Designer software, for maximum
flexibility when designing new boards or migrating existing designs. Each I/O module has an available
pull-up or pull-down resistor of approximately 50 k
that can configure the I/O in a known state during
power-up. Just shortly before VCCA reaches 2.5 V, the resistors are disabled and the I/Os will be
controlled by user logic.
Figure 1-7 Fuselock
FuseLock