Audio Processor boosts sound quality in miniature equipment.
Press Release Summary:
Supplied in 7 x 7 x 1 mm QFN package, SoundTerminal® STA321MP integrates interface for direct connection to MEMS digital microphone as well as standard microphone input. Second MEMS input allows connection to tiny sensor for detecting speaker movements, allowing designers to apply active-sound shaping. Suited for multi-function products such as smartphones, audio processor exhibits low sensitivity to noise from LCDs and power components.
Original Press Release:
STMicroelectronics Extends Sound Terminal® Advantage for Miniaturized, High-Quality Audio Equipment
Audio processor optimized for MEMS-enhanced features integrates direct digital microphone input and active sound shaping for best playback quality
Geneva - STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a leading supplier of ICs for consumer and mobile products, 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 device will allow customers to deliver market-leading miniaturized audio products offering outstanding sound quality.
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.
As a third-generation SoundTerminal IC, the STA321MP delivers advanced features and performance. Support for designers includes complete development kits for MEMS-based systems, as well as the APWorkbench graphical development environment. APWorkbench helps designers configure Sound Terminal products intuitively, and includes features for setting up active sound shaping.
Main features of STA321MP:
Audio processing optimized for use with MEMS microphones Direct output to high-efficiency digital amplifier PDM/analog and dual-I2S input Low power consumption Ultra low-profile 1mm-high QFN package
The STA321MP is available now in a 7 x 7mm QFN package, priced at $3.00 in quantities of 1000. Alternative pricing options are available for larger quantities.
About STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics is a global leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications with innovative semiconductor solutions. ST aims to be the undisputed leader in multimedia convergence and power applications leveraging its vast array of technologies, design expertise and combination of intellectual property portfolio, strategic partnerships and manufacturing strength. In 2010, the Company's net revenues were $10.35 billion. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com.
