Xilinx XC4000 Series

September 18, 1996 (Version 1.04) 4-35
Programmable Switch Matrices
The horizontal and vertical single- and double-length lines
intersect at a box called a programmable switch matrix
(PSM). Each switch matrix consists of programmable pass
transistors used to establish connections between the lines
(see Figure 28).
For example, a single-length signal entering on the right
side of the switch matrix can be routed to a single-length
line on the top, left, or bottom sides, or any combination
thereof, if multiple branches are required. Similarly, a dou-
ble-length signal can be routed to a double-length line on
any or all of the other three edges of the programmable
switch matrix.
Single-Length Lines
Single-length lines provide the greatest interconnect flexi-
bility and offer fast routing between adjacent blocks. There
are eight vertical and eight horizontal single-length lines
associated with each CLB. These lines connect the switch-
ing matrices that are located in every row and a column of
CLBs.
Single-length lines are connected by way of the program-
mable switch matrices, as shown in Figure 29. Routing
connectivity is shown in Figure 27.
Single-length lines incur a delay whenever they go through
a switching matrix. Therefore, they are not suitable for rout-
ing signals for long distances. They are normally used to
conduct signals within a localized area and to provide the
branching for nets with fanout greater than one.
Double-Length Lines
The double-length lines consist of a grid of metal segments,
each twice as long as the single-length lines: they run past
two CLBs before entering a switch matrix. Double-length
lines are grouped in pairs with the switch matrices stag-
gered, so that each line goes through a switch matrix at
every other row or column of CLBs (see Figure 29).
There are four vertical and four horizontal double-length
lines associated with each CLB. These lines provide faster
signal routing over intermediate distances, while retaining
routing flexibility. Double-length lines are connected by way
of the programmable switch matrices. Routing connectivity
is shown in Figure 27.
Six Pass Transistors
Per Switch Matrix
Interconnect Point
Singles
Double
Double
Singles
Double
Double
X6600
Figure 28: Programmable Switch Matrix (PSM)
CLB
PSM PSM
PSMPSM
CLB CLB
CLB CLB CLB
CLB CLB CLB
Doubles
Singles
Doubles
X6601
Figure 29: Single- and Double-Length Lines, with Programmable Switch Matrices (PSMs)