NXP Semiconductors BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q

Overview

BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q from Aetrix Electronics is a breakout board designed to evaluate the Freescale FXLN8361QR1 - a 3-axis, low-power, analog-output accelerometer with ±2 g / ±8 g selectable full-scale range, low-bandwidth configuration (1.1 kHz XY / 600 Hz Z), and fixed 0.75 V zero-g output offset. It operates from 1.71–3.6 V, draws 180 μA typical active current, and mounts in a 3×3×1 mm QFN-12 package for white goods tilt sensing and robotics motion detection.

For engineers reviewing the BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q datasheet, BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q pinout, BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q application, or BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q equivalent, this board provides immediate access to XOUT/YOUT/ZOUT analog outputs, EN/ST/g-Select control signals, BYP capacitor interface, and dual ground planes - enabling rapid prototyping of tamper detection, inclinometer, and activity monitoring systems without custom PCB design.

Technical Context

The BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q implements the FXLN8361QR1 accelerometer in a fully routed, decoupled evaluation platform. It exposes all 12 pins of the QFN-12 package-including dual GND pads, NC terminals, and dedicated BYP capacitor node-while integrating 0.1 µF VDD decoupling (C2/C3), 4.7 µF BYP stabilization (C1), and 9.1 nF bandwidth-setting capacitors (C4/C5/C6) per the low-bandwidth configuration specified for FXLN8361Q.

Signal routing preserves analog integrity: XOUT/YOUT/ZOUT traces are length-matched and isolated from digital control lines (EN, ST, g-Select); the breakout includes test points for all critical nodes and a 2.54 mm header footprint compatible with standard breadboards and DAQ systems. No internal voltage regulation or logic translation is performed-the board passes through raw analog outputs and TTL-compatible digital inputs directly.

Key Specifications

Availability

BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial robotics motion sensing, white goods tilt/vibration detection, and medical activity monitoring requiring stable component supply and fast evaluation turnaround.

Supply support for BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Freescale Semiconductor (now part of NXP Semiconductors) is a global semiconductor supplier specializing in embedded processing, sensors, and analog solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications.

The FXLN83xxQ product line was engineered specifically for ultra-low-power, high-stability analog acceleration measurement in space-constrained environments - targeting tamper detection, inclinometry, and condition monitoring where DC-coupled output and thermal drift resilience are critical.

FAQ

What is the function of the BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q evaluation board?

The BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q evaluation board provides a ready-to-use hardware interface for the FXLN8361QR1 analog-output accelerometer. It breaks out all 12 pins of the QFN-12 package to 2.54 mm headers, integrates required passive components (decoupling, BYP, and bandwidth-setting capacitors), and maintains signal integrity for XOUT/YOUT/ZOUT analog outputs - allowing engineers to validate sensor behavior without designing a custom PCB. BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q supports immediate connection to oscilloscopes, ADCs, or microcontroller analog inputs.

Does BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q include power regulation or level-shifting circuitry?

No, BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q is a passive breakout board with no active regulation or logic translation. It routes VDD and GND directly to the FXLN8361QR1, requires an external 1.71–3.6 V supply, and presents TTL-compatible EN, ST, and g-Select inputs. All analog outputs (XOUT/YOUT/ZOUT) are unbuffered and retain the device's native 0.75 V zero-g offset and 10 kΩ output impedance. BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q relies on the host system to provide clean power and interpret analog voltage levels.

How is bandwidth configured on BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q?

BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q uses fixed 9.1 nF capacitors (C4/C5/C6) on XOUT, YOUT, and ZOUT as specified for the FXLN8361Q low-bandwidth variant - yielding 1.1 kHz bandwidth on X/Y axes and 600 Hz on the Z axis. These values are soldered in place per the datasheet recommendation and cannot be adjusted without component replacement. The BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q does not support field reconfiguration to high-bandwidth mode; that requires the FXLN8371QR1 IC and different capacitor values.

Can BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q be used with both ±2 g and ±8 g ranges?

Yes - the FXLN8361QR1 IC on BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q supports both ±2 g and ±8 g full-scale ranges via the g-Select pin. When g-Select is driven high, the device operates in ±2 g mode (229 mV/g sensitivity); when driven low, it switches to ±8 g mode (57.25 mV/g). BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q exposes the g-Select pin to a header, enabling runtime range selection. The zero-g output remains fixed at 0.75 V in both modes.

What mechanical mounting considerations apply to BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q?

BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q is a rigid FR4 evaluation board with no flexure or shock isolation. It must be mounted using non-stress methods - avoid screw-down enclosures or stacked assemblies that bend the PCB, as mechanical strain can affect FXLN8361QR1 calibration and long-term stability. The board follows Freescale's recommended QFN layout guidelines: NSMD pads, no vias under the IC, and 2 mm clearance around the footprint. BRKOUT-FXLN8361Q is not rated for direct surface-mount integration but serves strictly as a benchtop evaluation tool.