PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (Intel Developer Forum) -- Aug. 31, 1999 -- Set-top boxes, PDAs, game consoles, and other consumer electronics products that deliver whole new levels of information access and entertainment value - including a "sounds live" audio experience - are on the horizon. Helping to enable the new levels of performance, Cirrus Logic Inc. (NASDAQ:CRUS) today rolled out a uniquely robust Crystal® chip (CS4298) that provides both full-function audio and modem communications capabilities.

Designed to complement Intel processors - as well as high-performance PCI audio accelerators such as the new Crystal Audio DSP (CS4630), also announced today (see related release) - the AMC 97-compliant CS4298 provides an unprecedented four channels of analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion. As a result, the new audio/modem chip enables system designers to use the same part for either four channels of audio surround sound, or full stereo audio playback plus high-speed modem capability. In addition to reducing component costs and board area, the CS4298 also increases design flexibility and simplifies subsystem integration, as the modem and audio portions of the chip are designed to interact seamlessly.

According to Cirrus Logic, the CS4298 is the only AMC 97 device that provides full stereo audio playback, record and mixing capabilities, as well as a high-speed, two-line modem front end. Drawing from Crystal leadership in audio ICs, the device also delivers an unmatched range of advanced audio technologies, including its use of 20-bit DACs, differential audio I/O, extra analog input, and S/PDIF output for high-fidelity digital audio via 5.1 channels. All of this functionality comes in a single, economical, easy to design-in package that takes both parts and dollars out of systems.

According to Scott McDonald, vice president of Crystal Computer Audio Products for Cirrus Logic, "The trend toward information appliances and pervasive Internet access promise to enhance the way everyone works and plays." He said that market growth in these segments would depend on powerful chip solutions such as the CS4298, which provide the right enabling technologies. "If the market for set-top boxes, PDAs and other like devices is to realize its growth potential, developers must deliver full-function audio and modem capabilities that can interact seamlessly and still be affordable."

McDonald noted that the new Crystal 4-channel audio/modem chip delivers both the value and performance that OEMs are seeking. And it does it on the popular ACLink bus - the open audio interface architecture increasingly implemented with ARM processors, Intel chip sets, and other embedded microcontrollers aimed at the appliance arena. "It's another industry first from Cirrus Logic," said McDonald, "and it cements our position as the number one provider of high quality, high-performance audio chip solutions."

Multiple Solutions in One

On the information appliance front, the CS4298's combined codec and modem front-end capabilities can transform set-top boxes into a single economical platform for accessing the Internet as well as for watching pre-recorded television broadcasts and Pay-Per-View movies with superior sound reproduction.

Sega and other gaming consoles based on the Windows CE operating system and the AC Link bus similarly can leverage the CS4298 to offer consumers an easy, affordable way to not only surf the Web, but enjoy online gaming with both audio input and output. And next-generation PDAs that incorporate MP3 playback will be able to offer such functionality in value priced products, thanks to the superior price performance of the new audio/modem chip.

For the space and weight constrained portable PCs, the CS4298 enables digital docking stations that provide both high-speed modem access, and full stereo playback. Alternatively, the new entry's modem front-end converters can serve as additional audio channels to fulfill an audiophile's dream of a high-end, 4-channel audio subsystem for desktop, portable, and automotive computers, as well as set-top boxes and game consoles.

Moreover, a S/PDIF output enables digital out to a range of cutting-edge sound systems, such as 5.1-channel speakers and digital AV amplifier/receivers. Hence if consumers purchase PCs or set-top boxes that use the CS4298, and connect the systems to DVD players, they can experience studio-quality sound at a price point that even the most value conscious consumer can afford. The flexibility of the CS4298 also simplifies OEM system design, as it can transmit compressed AC-3 data to four digital speakers, or to an AC-3 encoded amplifier/receiver.

Enables Economical "Soft Modem" Designs

The highly integrated CS4298 is well suited for value priced information appliance and PC markets because it reduces the number of parts required to provide audio capability and Internet access. Its modem front-end features also permit manufacturers to design economical "soft" modems into their products.

Because the CS4298 handles all modem front-end conversion tasks, back-end modem functions can be performed by a processor already designed into the system. Such soft implementations eliminate the need for a modem DSP and thus enable manufacturers to drive down system costs even more.

Comprehensive Design-in Support

Cirrus Logic reports it is working with the leading suppliers of soft modems to ensure CS4298 compatibility with their products. In addition, Cirrus Logic offers AMR (audio modem riser) compliant reference design boards that demonstrate the CS4298's functionality, both as a combined audio codec and modem front-end, and as a 4-channel audio subsystem. Together, these initiatives add up to comprehensive design support that enables Cirrus Logic customers to quickly introduce CS4298-equipped products to market.

As a leading provider of audio codecs that comply with AC 97/AMC 97, the open industry standard for interfacing any audio codec or audio codec plus modem with any analog controller, Cirrus Logic already has an impressive user base for its AC 97 technology and product lines. Current customers include IBM, Intel, Dell, and Hewlett-Packard, among other major OEMs.

Availability and Pricing

The Cirrus Logic CS4298 audio codec plus modem is available in production quantities now. The CS4298 is priced at $3.50 (U.S.) in lots of 10,000 or more.

Cirrus Logic

Cirrus Logic is a premier supplier of high-performance analog circuits and advanced mixed-signal chip solutions. The company's products, sold under its own name and the Crystal product brand, enable system-level applications in mass storage, audio, and precision data conversion. Additional information about Cirrus Logic is available at www.cirrus.com.

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Note to editors: Cirrus Logic is a registered trademark of Cirrus Logic Inc. All other product names noted herein may be trademarks of their respective holders.