Renesas X9C303PIZ

Overview

X9C303PIZ from Intersil is a logarithmic digitally controlled potentiometer (XDCP™) with 100 tap positions, 32kΩ end-to-end resistance ±15%, ±5V terminal voltage rating, and nonvolatile wiper position storage. It functions as a solid-state three-terminal potentiometer or two-terminal variable resistor in analog signal trimming, audio volume control, and sensor calibration circuits.

For engineers reviewing the X9C303PIZ datasheet, X9C303PIZ pinout, X9C303PIZ application, or X9C303PIZ equivalent, key selection criteria include log taper accuracy (±0.115 dB step error), wiper resistance (40 Ω typical), 750 µA max standby current, and Pb-free 8-lead PDIP packaging compatible with through-hole wave soldering.

Technical Context

The X9C303PIZ implements a 7-bit up/down counter driving a 100-position decoder to select taps across a 99-element logarithmic resistor array. Wiper movement follows make-before-break switching, preventing open-circuit transients during position changes.

Nonvolatile memory stores wiper position on CS↑ with INC HIGH, enabling automatic recall at power-up. Control uses a three-wire interface (CS, U/D, INC) with negative-edge-triggered INC and direction-selectable U/D, operating at 5 V ±10% with active current ≤3 mA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-lead PDIP (300 mil), Pb-free, RoHS-compliant, rated for -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range. Designed for through-hole wave solder processing only.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digitally controlled potentiometer applications.

Compared with AD5243BRMZ10 and MCP4131-103, the X9C303PIZ uniquely combines logarithmic taper, ±5 V bipolar operation, and true nonvolatile wiper storage in a simple three-wire interface - making it optimal for audio, sensor calibration, and power supply tuning where perceptual linearity and zero-MCU-startup behavior are essential.

Availability

X9C303PIZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio volume control, sensor signal conditioning, power supply feedback tuning, and industrial analog output scaling requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long-lifecycle designs.

Supply support for X9C303PIZ 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

Intersil Corporation (now part of Renesas Electronics) is a semiconductor manufacturer specializing in precision analog, power management, and interface ICs for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The X9C303PIZ belongs to Intersil's XDCP™ family of digitally controlled potentiometers, designed specifically for replacing mechanical potentiometers in analog trimming, calibration, and adjustment applications where reliability, programmability, and nonvolatile settings retention are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum voltage that can be applied across VH and VL terminals of the X9C303PIZ?

The X9C303PIZ supports a maximum differential voltage of |VH − VL| = 10 V, with each terminal rated for −5 V to +5 V relative to VSS. This allows direct use in bipolar signal paths without level-shifting circuitry. Exceeding ±5 V on either terminal or 10 V total may damage the internal resistor array or switches. The X9C303PIZ must be operated within these absolute limits to ensure reliability and specified performance.

Does the X9C303PIZ retain its wiper position after power cycling?

Yes, the X9C303PIZ retains its wiper position using on-chip nonvolatile memory. When CS transitions HIGH while INC is HIGH, the current counter value is stored and recalled automatically at next power-up. This feature eliminates the need for external memory or initialization firmware. The X9C303PIZ guarantees 100 years of data retention and 100,000 store cycles, making it ideal for applications requiring consistent default settings after power loss.

Can the X9C303PIZ be used as a two-terminal variable resistor?

Yes, the X9C303PIZ can operate as a two-terminal variable resistor by connecting either VH or VL to VW and using the remaining fixed terminal with VW. In this configuration, resistance varies from near-zero (at wiper extremes) to full 32 kΩ. The X9C303PIZ maintains its log taper characteristic and wiper resistance (40 Ω typical) in both three-terminal potentiometer and two-terminal rheostat modes.

What is the wiper resistance specification for the X9C303PIZ, and why does it matter?

The X9C303PIZ has a typical wiper resistance of 40 Ω, with a maximum of 100 Ω. This low on-resistance minimizes insertion loss and loading errors when the wiper drives high-impedance nodes (e.g., op-amp inputs or ADC references). In precision applications like sensor calibration, keeping wiper resistance well below the array's 32 kΩ ensures gain accuracy remains within tolerance - a key advantage over higher-Rw digital pots.

Is the X9C303PIZ compatible with reflow soldering processes?

No, the X9C303PIZ in PDIP packaging (including X9C303PIZ) is intended for through-hole wave soldering only. Its Pb-free PDIP construction is not rated for reflow profiles due to thermal stress limitations of the plastic body and leadframe. Attempting reflow may cause delamination or internal damage. For surface-mount alternatives, consider the SOIC or TSSOP variants (e.g., X9C303S8IZ or X9C303V8IZ), which are qualified for standard Pb-free reflow.