Virtex (FPGA)

Virtex is the flagship family of FPGA products developed by Xilinx. Other current product lines include Kintex (mid-range) and Artix (low-cost), each including configurations and models optimized for different applications. In addition, Xilinx offers the Spartan low-cost series, which continues to be updated and is nearing production utilizing the same underlying architecture and process node as the larger 7-series devices.

Virtex FPGAs are typically programmed in hardware description languages such as VHDL or Verilog, using the Xilinx ISE or Vivado Design Suite computer software.

Xilinx FPGA products have been recognized by EE Times, EDN and others for innovation and market impact.

The Virtex series of FPGAs are based on Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs), where each CLB is equivalent to multiple ASIC gates. Each CLB is composed of multiple slices, that differ in construction between Virtex families.

Virtex FPGAs include an I/O Block for controlling input/output pins on the Virtex chip, that support a variety of signalling standards. All pins default to "input" mode (high impedance). I/O pins are grouped into I/O Banks, where each Bank can support a different voltage.

In addition to configurable FPGA logic, Virtex FPGAs include fixed-function hardware for multipliers, memories, microprocessor cores, FIFO and ECC logic, DSP blocks, PCI Express controllers, Ethernet MAC blocks, and high-speed serial transceivers.

Some Virtex family members (such as the Virtex-5QX) are available in radiation-hardened packages, for outer-space applications.

The Virtex-II and Virtex-II Pro families are considered legacy devices, and are not recommended for use in new designs, although they are still produced by Xilinx for existing designs.

The Virtex-4 family are considered legacy devices, and are not recommended for use in new designs, although they are still produced by Xilinx for existing designs.

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