Diodes Incorporated ZXF103EV

Overview

ZXF103EV from Zetex (now Diodes Incorporated) is an evaluation board for the ZXF103QSOP16 analog high-Q bandpass filter IC, enabling rapid configuration of notch, inverse notch, and bandpass responses via jumper-selectable topologies. It supports center frequencies up to 1 MHz, Q factor adjustable from 0.5 to 50, and operates at 70 kHz by default with 5 V supply, low-noise (20 nV/√Hz), and 25 mW power consumption - ideal for sonar signal conditioning and instrumentation filtering.

For engineers reviewing the ZXF103EV datasheet, ZXF103EV pinout, ZXF103EV application, or ZXF103EV equivalent, this board provides verified reference schematics, jumper-based mode selection (Notch / Notch Pass 1 / Notch Pass 2), on-board RC network (R1=R2=6.8 kΩ, R3=10 kΩ, R4=22 kΩ, C1=C2=330 pF), and compatibility with standard 5 V logic-level signal sources and test equipment.

Technical Context

The ZXF103EV implements the ZXF103 filter IC in a fixed-configuration QSOP16 evaluation platform, with discrete external components pre-mounted to realize three distinct filter modes: standard notch (jumper J1+J2), inverse notch with 0 dB stopband (J2+J3), and inverse notch with attenuating skirts (J3 only). All configurations use the same core ZXF103 transfer function topology based on dual-phase advance/retard nodes and loop gain control via GP1–GP3 terminals.

It operates with a nominal center frequency of 70 kHz, leveraging internal bias (BIAS pin), dual 0 V reference points, and dual Vcc pins (pins 11 & 15) to ensure stable DC operating points. Input signals are applied to FI1/FI2, output extracted from FO, and phase/gain tuning enabled through accessible GPx and RC/C nodes per the ZXF103's documented design equations.

Key Specifications

Availability

ZXF103EV is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for sonar signal conditioning, line-frequency notch filtering, motion detection front-ends, and low-frequency telemetry receiver design requiring stable component supply and validated reference implementation.

Supply support for ZXF103EV 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

Zetex plc (acquired by Diodes Incorporated in 2008) was a UK-based analog semiconductor specialist focused on high-performance discrete and analog ICs for precision signal conditioning and power management.

The ZXF103 product line was designed specifically for programmable analog filtering in instrumentation and ultrasonic systems, where tunable Q and configurable response shape are critical - not general-purpose op-amp-based filters.

FAQ

Does ZXF103EV include the ZXF103 IC?

Yes, the ZXF103EV evaluation board includes one mounted ZXF103QSOP16 IC (ZXF103Q16) as the active filter core. The board is not a bare PCB - it ships with the IC, all required external resistors (R1–R4, VR1), capacitors (C1–C6), and jumpers pre-installed per the schematic in Issue 2, page 7.

Can ZXF103EV be used for center frequencies other than 70 kHz?

Yes - the onboard RC network is user-modifiable. Replace C1/C2 (330 pF) and/or R1/R2 (6.8 kΩ) to scale fo per fo = 1/(π·R·C); Q remains adjustable via R3/R4 ratio. Layout parasitics limit practical upper range to ~600 kHz, consistent with ZXF103's max operating frequency spec.

What power supply requirements does ZXF103EV have?

ZXF103EV requires a clean, regulated +5 V DC supply capable of delivering ≥10 mA (ZXF103 draws 5 mA typical, plus margin for external circuitry). No negative rail or voltage regulation circuitry is included - input must be referenced to the board's 0 V plane, which connects directly to ZXF103's two 0 V pins (2 & 6).

Is there documentation for configuring ZXF103EV modes?

Yes - Zetex Issue 2 (July 2002), pages 7–8, provides the full jumper mapping: Notch uses J1+J2; Inverse Notch (0 dB stopband) uses J2+J3; Inverse Notch (attenuating skirts) uses J3 only. Each mode's AC response plot and phase behavior are shown on pages 4–5, with design equations for Q and fo on pages 5–6.