XC9500

The XC9500 is a family of low-cost, high-performance programmable logic devices (PLDs) developed by Microchip Technology Inc. (formerly Altera). Introduced in the mid-1990s, these devices were designed to offer a balance between complexity and cost, making them suitable for a wide range of digital design applications. The XC9500 series was part of Microchip’s early efforts to expand the use of programmable logic in consumer electronics, industrial control, and embedded systems.

The XC9500 family is based on a 180-nanometer (nm) process technology, which allowed for higher density and improved performance compared to earlier PLD generations. Devices in this series typically feature between 1,000 to 10,000 logic gates, with configurable I/O pins that can be programmed to perform various functions, including digital I/O, analog inputs, and clock outputs. The devices support a range of packaging options, including small-outline (SO) packages and thin quad flat packages (TQFP), catering to space-constrained applications.

A key feature of the XC9500 is its compatibility with Microchip’s Quartus II development software, which provides tools for logic synthesis, placement and routing, and programming. The devices also support a variety of programming methods, including serial JEDEC and parallel programming interfaces. This flexibility made them accessible to both professional designers and hobbyists working on custom digital circuits.

While the XC9500 series was eventually succeeded by more advanced FPGA families like the Altera Cyclone and Stratix, it remains notable for its role in early programmable logic adoption. Its affordability and performance made it a popular choice for prototyping and low-volume applications during its peak usage period. Today, the XC9500 is primarily of historical interest but continues to be referenced in legacy design documentation and educational materials.