Conexant unveils low-power audio codec for CE devices

NEWPORT BEACH, USA: Conexant Systems Inc. has introduced a new power-efficient stereo audio codec targeted at consumer electronics products including mobile Internet devices, smartbooks, and Web tablets.

The low-power CX20745 codec is the first in a family of high-performance audio solutions for compact mobile devices. It is shipping to customers in sample quantities now. To reduce engineering costs and product-development cycles, a complete evaluation kit (EVK) based on the new audio codec is also available.

“Our new solution integrates key technical features that significantly improve audio quality in mobile devices, while delivering the low-power consumption required for battery-operated consumer electronics products,” said Phil Pompa, senior vice president of product marketing for Conexant. “We will continue to leverage our extensive expertise in audio and voice DSP algorithms to further improve the listening experience of consumers globally.”

The CX20745 integrates a power-efficient Stereo Class-D amplifier capable of driving up to two milliwatts per channel to boost audio performance. The codec supports Open Mobile Terminal Platform (OMTP) headset input/output with command-sensing functionality, and digital and analog microphone inputs. OMTP is an industry forum that drives technical requirements to ensure consistent and secure implementations in mobile terminals.

The new audio solution features a CPU resource-friendly hardware equalizer to maximize application performance. Additional features include dynamic range and microphone automatic gain control to enable “far-field” audio pick-up by broadening the sound-capture radius.

The CX20745 also has a high-performance multi-bit digital/analog and analog/digital converter, and supports differential internal signaling to enhance audio fidelity. To further improve performance, the codec uses direct current cancellation to eliminate audio “pops” that often occur during power-state transitions (e.g. turning a device on or off). The CX20745 supports an industrial temperature range of -40 to 85 degrees centigrade.

Conexant’s innovative audio product portfolio includes highly integrated speakers-on-a-chip solutions and high-definition (HD) audio codecs for a broad range of products including PC peripheral sound systems, speakers, notebook docking stations, headsets, voice-over-IP speakerphones, and intercoms. The company also offers HD audio solutions for personal computers.

Production quantities of the CX20745 will be available in February 2011. The audio codec is priced at $1.40 each in quantities of 10K, and the evaluation kit is available to qualified customers for $199.

The CX20745 is offered in a 48-pin quad flat no-lead (QFN) package, which provides several benefits including reduced lead inductance, a thin profile, a small footprint, and low weight. The QFN package is manufactured using environmentally friendly RoHS- and green-compliant materials.