STMicroelectronics Announces Compact 3-Output Bus-Controlled Audio Power Amplifier Solution for Mobile Phones

Single-chip audio system adds loudspeaker and hands-free outputs to stereo headphone driver, with I2C interface and protection features

Geneva, November 06,2006 - STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a world leader in mobile phone audio solutions, has introduced a compact stereo headphone and loudspeaker driver chip, with a flexible I2C bus control interface, which is intended for mobile phones, PDAs and laptop computers. The new TS4956, in a lead-free 2.5x2.4mm flip-chip package, can drive up to 38mW per channel continuous average power into 16-ohm headphone loads, or 450mW into 8-ohm loudspeaker loads, when operating on a 3.3V power supply.

Mobile phone designers are moving away from traditional audio power amplifiers to more complex integrated audio solutions, and the TS4956 provides such a system by offering three dedicated outputs in a single chip: one stereo headphone drive, one stereo loudspeaker output and one mono line for a handsfree set.

Designed for space-critical applications, the new device minimizes the number of external components required by providing I2C selection of eight different operating modes, including a stereo loudspeaker option, and 32-step -34dB to +12dB digital volume control. It features an ultra-low standby current of 0.5-microamps, with just 10-nanoamps shutdown current, and can operate on power supplies from 2.7V to 5.5V. Pop and click noise-reduction circuitry eliminates turn-on and turn-off noise.

The headphone outputs are power limited, by monitoring the output voltage and current in the phantom ground configuration, to minimise the chance of users’ hearing damage. In addition, the device itself is protected by an over-temperature shutdown mechanism activated at 150 degrees C. Operating temperature range is -40 to +85 degree C.

The TS4956 is available now in an 18-bump flip-chip package, priced at $1.10 in quantities of 1,000 pieces.

Further information is also available at www.st.com/stdlinear

Click here for the high-resolution photo: www.st.com/stonline/stappl/publish/stwebresources/TS4956_p2091shigh.jpeg

About STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a key role in enabling today’s convergence markets. The Company’s shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on Euronext Paris and on the Milan Stock Exchange. In 2005, the Company’s net revenues were $8.88 billion and net earnings were $266 million. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com.

Contact Information

Michael Markowitz

Americas Contact

STMicroelectronics

Contact via E-mail