TI Releases Six New High-Performance, Low-Power Audio ADCs

March 10 2015, 04:07
Texas Instruments (TI) introduced a family of six high-performance audio analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). Featuring a dynamic range as high as 110 dB, the devices in the PCM1865 family integrate features typically found in portable audio codecs, while also giving designers a level of performance previously found only in single-function, professional audio ADCs. 
 

Powered by a single 3.3-V supply, the PCM1865 audio ADC removes the traditional requirement for a dedicated analog 5-V rail, making smaller, more efficient products possible. According to TI, “no other audio ADCs on the market can achieve a performance level of 110 dB with a single 3.3-V power supply.”

Each device in the new family solves many system-level design headaches, including hum and ground noise, input-signal level sensitivity, and attenuation, all with a single device. This integration is particularly beneficial for end equipment such as personal computers; soundbars; audio docks; Bluetooth speakers; video-security systems; and automotive infotainment equipment, including after-market head units, amplifiers, and active noise-cancellation (ANC) systems.

The PCM1865 family consists of six pin-to-pin compatible devices offering two- and four-channel options, with software- and hardware-controlled variants. Three of the six devices in the PCM1865 family can achieve up to 110-dB performance. With direct, high-voltage 2.1-VRMS support, the devices optimize audio quality and enable a higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Additionally, the software-controlled devices’ automatic clipping-suppression feature helps designers optimize input sensitivity for maximum SNR.

TI also explains the new audio ADCs can deliver the same performance as competing solutions while potentially eliminating as many as 20 components. The devices integrate a clock-generating phase-locked loop (PLL), programmable gain amplifier and universal front end, which supports various inputs from low-level microphones to 4.2-VRMS differential inputs. Designers can easily configure single-ended and differential inputs to cancel hum and ground noise.

The integration of TI’s patent-pending Energysense technology enables designers to meet operating requirements set by the European Union’s (EU) Ecodesign Directive. By using the on-chip secondary ADC, designers can easily set both sleep and wake-up thresholds, which can help equipment achieve the energy efficiency levels required in this EU directive.

The six new ADCs are available in 7.8-mm × 4.4-mm TSSOP (30-pin) packages - up to 45% smaller than competing devices.
Development with the PCM1865 family is supported with evaluation modules (EVMs) including the PCM1865EVM, which can be purchased in the TI store for $149. Support is also available in the TI E2ETM Community Audio Converters forum.
www.ti.com

View the data sheet for the PCM1865 here.

More information on TI’s audio portfolio here.
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