Date: 16/11/2011

Quad Class D spatial array audio IC for multi-speaker portables

Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) has introduced LM48901 quad Class D spatial array that simplifies the design and programming of spatially enhanced audio systems for multi-speaker portable products, including laptops, tablets, sound bars and sound docking stations. The LM48901 quad Class D spatial array is the first in a family of innovative audio ICs that employ distributed sound processing coupled with loudspeaker array technology to produce an immersive audio experience for space-constrained applications, says TI.

Tablets, for example, have wide-format screens that deliver impressive high-definition video, but the overall experience is hindered by their tightly spaced speakers that produce audio that is lacking in clarity and depth. They suffer from a limited soundstage, where multiple speakers sound like only one speaker because they are placed close together. The LM48901 and companion software tool solve this problem with easy-to-use audio effect programming that converts a small soundstage into an immersive sound experience that can be deployed across a manufacturer's entire product portfolio, from tablets to sound bars with two to 16 speakers, explains TI.

Key features and benefits as listed by TI includes:
Complete audio solution: IC integrates a spatial processing DSP, four Class D amplifiers, 18-bit stereo analog-to-digital converter (ADC), phase-locked loop (PLL), and I2S and I2C interfaces.
Simplified audio effect programming: Easy-to-use software tool speeds development by eliminating the need for algorithm tuning and in-house DSP experts.
Immersive audio effect: Enables differentiated products that defy physical system size to provide an expanded soundstage superior to competitive solutions.
Flexible multi-channel capability: Enables multiple LM48901's to be daisy-chained to support up to 16 speaker channels and multiple subwoofer configurations.
Integrated 2 W speaker drivers: Four Class D speaker drivers deliver 2 W per channel of continuous output power into a 4-Ohm load with less than 1-percent total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) to simplify system design and reduce bill of materials.

Availability, packaging and pricing: The LM48901 is available in two package types: a 36-pin, 3.2-mm x 3.4-mm micro SMD, and a 32-pin 5-mm x 5-mm LLP. Suggested retail pricing is $2.50 in 1,000-unit quantities.

TI has recently acquired National Semiconductor. LM series ICs are part National Semiconductor acquisition.

For more information visit: www.ti.com