In a move that has stirred both curiosity and concern within the electronic component industry, AMD has issued a product discontinuation notice for several Xilinx Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CLPD) and lower-end FPGA models. The Last Time Buy for these parts is June 29th, 2024. This announcement marks a significant shift in AMD’s product strategy since its acquisition of Xilinx in 2022. The notice states: “AMD will be discontinuing XC9500XL, CoolRunner XPLA 3, CoolRunner II, Spartan II, and Spartan 3, 3A, 3AN, 3E, 3ADSP Commercial/Industrial ‘XC’ and Automotive ‘XA’ Product Families due to declining run-rate and suppliers sustainability reasons.”
This decision comes as a surprise to many, considering AMD’s previous commitment to continue producing and supporting Xilinx’s older CPLD products. The Spartan 3 family, for instance, has been a mainstay in the market since its debut in 2011, while some of the CoolRunner II parts date back to 2022.
The Acquisition and Its Implications
When AMD acquired Xilinx in 2022, industry analysts largely viewed the move as a strategic expansion into FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) territories. AS leader in programmable logic devices, brought a diverse portfolio to AMD’s already impressive lineup of processors and graphic cards. The acquisition was seen as a win-win, providing AMD with the tools to venture into new markets and broaden its technological footprint.
However, with the recent discontinuation notice, it appears that they are reevaluating its strategy. The decision to phase out certain CPLD and FPGA models suggests a shift in focus towards newer, more advanced technologies. It also indicates that maintaining the production of these older models may no longer be viable from a business perspective.
Reasons for Last Time Buy Notice
AMD’s notice cites “declining run-rate and supplier sustainability reasons” as the primary factors behind the discontinuation. A declining run rate refers to a decrease in the production volume of these older models, which can make it difficult to justify their continued manufacture. Supplier sustainability issues might involve challenges in sourcing components for these legacy devices, which can become increasingly difficult and costly as technology advances.
The semiconductor industry is inherently fast-paced, with continuous advancements rendering older technologies obsolete. AMD’s decision to discontinue these products could be seen as a. natural progression. By focusing on newer, more efficient solutions, they can better position itself to meet the evolving demands of the market.
Impact on the Industry
The discontinuation of the XC9500XL, CoolRunner XPLA 3, CoolRunner II, Spartan II, and Spartan 3 models will undoubtedly impact the industry. These products have been widely used in various applications, from automotive to industrial systems. Their removal from the market may force companies relying on these devices to develop alternative devices or upgrade to newer technologies.
For businesses that have built their products around these older models, the transition may require significant investment in redesign and requalification. This could be both a challenge and an opportunity. On the one hand, companies will need to invest time and resources to migrate to new development of more advanced and efficient solutions.
The Role of Microchip USA in Supporting the Transition
In light of AMD’s discontinuation notice, companies affected by the phasing out of Xilinx CPLD and FPGA models may find valuable support from alternative suppliers such as Microchip USA. With a reputation for reliability and innovation, we can assist businesses in sourcing hard-to-find or obsolete components.
The Last Time Buy (LTB) Window
This notice includes details of the Last Time Buy (LTB) final orders. The cutt-off date for placing orders for the soon-to-be-axed devices is June 29, 2024. This gives customers a limited window to secure their final purchases and prepare for the transition.
The LTB period is crucial for companies to assess their inventory needs and plan accordingly. It’s an opportunity to stock up on these products while evaluating and testing potential replacements. This transition period can help mitigate disruptions and ensure a smoother shift to newer technologies.
Looking Ahead
As AMD phases out these older CPLD and FPGA models, it signals a broader trend within the semiconductor industry toward innovation and modernization. The move underscores the importance of staying ahead of technological advancements and adapting to changing market dynamics.
In conclusion, while AMD’s discontinuation of certain Xilinx products marks the end of an era, it also heralds the beginning of a new chapter in the company’s evolution. As the semiconductor industry continues to advance, companies must navigate these changes with agility and foresight. For customers and partners of AMD, the coming months will be a time of transition, adaptation, and ultimately, progress.
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