DALLAS, Nov. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas Instruments
Incorporated (TI) (NYSE: TXN) today introduced an integrated
circuit (IC) 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 National 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. For more information and to order samples, visit
www.ti.com/spatial-pr.
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.
Key features and benefits
- 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.
Tools and support
The LM48901's web-based software tool includes an easy-to-use
speaker array coefficient generator that creates unique spatial
audio coefficients in a few easy steps. Also included are Android
drivers with an application note, and an evaluation board with
graphical user interface.
Availability, packaging and pricing
The LM48901 is available today 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.
Learn more about TI's audio portfolio by visiting the links
below:
- Order LM48901 samples and evaluation modules:
www.ti.com/lm48901-pr.
- Watch a video that explains how spatial audio works:
www.ti.com/spatialv-pr.
- Watch a video overview of the LM48901 and learn how easy it is
to program: www.ti.com/spatialprgmv-pr.
- See the TI audio portfolio: www.ti.com/audio-pr.
- Get technical support anytime and connect with other audio
engineers on the TI E2E™ Community: www.ti.com/audioforum-pr.
About Texas Instruments
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the beginning of our story. Learn more at www.ti.com.
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SOURCE Texas Instruments Incorporated