NXP Semiconductors CX24109-11Z,518

Overview

CX24109-11Z,518 from NXP Semiconductors is a highly integrated digital satellite tuner IC designed for direct down-conversion of L-band satellite signals (950–2150 MHz) into baseband I/Q outputs. It features zero-IF architecture, integrated LNA and VCO-based synthesizer, single +5 V supply, and 48-pin eTQFP package. Used with CX24121 demodulator, it enables full DVB/DSS-compliant satellite front-end solutions in set-top boxes.

For engineers reviewing the CX24109-11Z,518 datasheet, CX24109-11Z,518 pinout, CX24109-11Z,518 application, or CX24109-11Z,518 equivalent, key selection criteria include RF input frequency range, AGC-controlled 80 dB gain range, I/Q output interface compatibility, PLL programmability via 3-wire serial interface, and thermal performance under continuous satellite signal reception.

Technical Context

The CX24109-11Z,518 implements a zero-IF architecture with quadrature downconversion, eliminating image-reject filtering. Its integrated VCO covers 2200–4400 MHz and divides by 2 or 4 to generate LO frequencies spanning 950–2150 MHz across eight overlapping bands.

AGC control is split between RF (VCA) and baseband (dual VGA) stages, delivering 80 dB total variable gain. Gain is controlled by an analog voltage (0–3 V) from the demodulator IC, with programmable slope/offset per stage via 21-bit serial interface operating up to 1 MHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 48-pin eTQFP (enhanced thin quad flat pack), 7 mm × 7 mm, 0.5 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad (GND-connected). Land pattern and mechanical drawing provided in Figure 16 and Figure 17 of datasheet.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital satellite tuner applications.

Compared with STV0297D and MT2060, the CX24109-11Z,518 delivers lower BOM cost through zero-IF integration and single 5 V supply, but lacks DVB-S2 support and requires external loop filter tuning-making it optimal for cost-sensitive DVB-S legacy STB designs.

Availability

CX24109-11Z,518 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DBS set-top boxes, digital satellite receivers, digital VCRs, and commercial video distribution hubs requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for CX24109-11Z,518 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

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor company headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands, specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications.

The CX24109-11Z,518 belongs to NXP's satellite communications product line, designed specifically for high-volume, cost-optimized digital satellite receiver front ends compliant with DVB and DSS standards.

FAQ

What is the RF input frequency range supported by the CX24109-11Z,518?

The CX24109-11Z,518 supports an RF input frequency range of 950 MHz to 2150 MHz, covering the full L-band spectrum used by DBS and DVB-S satellite services. This range is achieved using an internal VCO with eight overlapping bands and programmable ÷2/÷4 division, enabling continuous tuning without gaps across voltage, temperature, and process variations.

Does the CX24109-11Z,518 require an external crystal oscillator?

No-the CX24109-11Z,518 integrates a complete crystal oscillator circuit. A 10.111 MHz fundamental-mode series-resonant crystal is connected between XTAL1 and XTAL2 pins, and the internal oscillator generates the system clock used for PLL operation and CLKREFOUT output. No external oscillator IC or buffer is needed.

How is AGC implemented in the CX24109-11Z,518?

The CX24109-11Z,518 implements a two-stage AGC: a voltage-controlled attenuator (VCA) in the RF path and dual voltage-controlled amplifiers (VGA1/VGA2) in the baseband path, delivering 80 dB total gain range. AGC is controlled by a single analog voltage (0–3 V) applied to the AGC pin, with programmable slope and offset per stage via the 21-bit serial interface.

What output interface does the CX24109-11Z,518 provide for connection to a demodulator?

The CX24109-11Z,518 provides differential I/Q baseband analog outputs: IOUTP/IOUTN and QOUTP/QOUTN. Each pair has 1 kΩ//10 pF output impedance and supports either balanced (recommended) or single-ended connection to the demodulator IC. It also supplies a synchronized 10.111 MHz CLKREFOUT clock signal.

Is the CX24109-11Z,518 compatible with DVB-S2 standards?

No-the CX24109-11Z,518 is designed for DVB-S and DSS standards only. It supports symbol rates up to 45 MSps but lacks the enhanced modulation schemes (e.g., 8PSK), adaptive coding, and higher symbol rate capability required for DVB-S2 compliance. For DVB-S2, consider alternatives like STV0297D.