Audio codec chip for PDAs

Philips semiconductor division has debuted an advanced mixed-signal audio codec chip for LCD-based handheld applications, such as PDAs, 3G mobile phones and other mobile devices.

Philips Semiconductors' UCB1400 is single chip that combines audio codec functions, a touch-screen controller and power management interfaces. Adding that these features usually requires two or more ICs, Philips said this combination of features will allow manufacturers to build smaller products that run for longer periods of time on a single charge.

The UCB1400 integrates a 20-bit stereo codec for audio processing and supports programmable sample rates, I/O gain and digital sound processing including volume, mute, bass and treble controls. It also supports several power management features, Philips said.

Individual UCB1400 blocks can be switched off independently when not in use and the external interface has a total of 48 pins. The chip also offers a 3.3V supply and built-in power saving modes. The chip is sampling now with volume production scheduled for the first quarter of 2002. The chip is priced at just over $9 each in quantities of less than 1,000 units.