Date: 6th Feb 2011
Audio chip from ST can deliver quality
audio even from damaged speakers
STMicroelectronics has unveiled an audio processing chip
that connects directly to the latest miniature microphones
and provides a new way of boosting performance from small,
low-cost, or even damaged speakers.
The new device, the STA321MP, joins ST's SoundTerminal
audio IC family, and features a built-in interface for a
MEMS digital microphone as well as a standard microphone
input. With tiny dimensions and low sensitivity to noise
from LCDs and power components, MEMS microphones are ideal
for multi-function products such as smartphones. The STA321MP
permits direct connection of a MEMS microphone, saving parts
count and cost.
In addition, the STA321MP has a second MEMS input that
can be connected to a tiny sensor for detecting speaker
movements. This allows designers to apply active-sound shaping
using ST patented techniques to optimize speaker performance.
In active-sound shaping, the processor compensates automatically
for distortion or damage to the speaker enabling high-quality
audio performance from over-driven speakers or from those
with torn or restricted-movement cones.
|