AKM Integrates Features Without Sacrificing Performance With New Telecom CODEC.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 5, 2001

AKM Semiconductor today introduced the AK2306/AK2306LV, two high-performance PCM CODECs designed for use in IP telephony, POTS-capable DSL/cable modems, key telephones and ISDN POTS terminal adapters.

With the explosive development of network communications around the globe there is strong demand for the best cost-to-performance ratio in consumer-appliance terminal adapters (TAs). The AK2305, released earlier for ISDN/TA applications, provided a simpler TA settings and lower costs solution. AKM has now moved to the next level of a broad feature set with the introduction of the AK2306 and AK2306LV 2-channel PCM CODECs offering a further cost reduction and space savings this innovative CODEC operates on a 5.0V (AK2306) or a 3.3V (AK2306LV) power supply.

These CODECs combine a 2-channel PCM CODEC with built-in TX/RX volume controls (+6 to -18 dB), 16/20Hz ring-tone generator, and low idle channel noise/low cross-talk. These advanced features are integrated so that systems designers require fewer external components than previously required in systems. This allows for lower system cost and smaller system size over all.

AKM has long been known for superior sound quality in professional and consumer audio systems. Using these technological advantages developed for professional audio AKM now offers products for telecom based applications. According to Lyle Knudson of AKM Semiconductor, "AKM is now branching out into areas that will allow the company to use its vast resources to aid customer designs in more areas than just professional and consumer audio."

As an extension of AKM's low noise PCM CODEC technology, the AK2306 and AK2306LV achieve idle channel noise levels of less than 0 dBrnc0 (AK2306 5.0V operation Typ) and less than 5 dBrnc0 (AK2306LV 3.3V operation Typ) in the measurement band. In addition to transmit and receive volume controls for each channel the CODEC offers power down, mute, time slot swap on PCM I/F, which are Long Frame/Short Frame/GCI interface compliance enabled.

Available in a 24-pin VSOP package (9.8 x 7.6mm pin-to-pin), AK2306/AK2306LV engineering samples are available now with production shipments to begin mid April. The AK2306 and AK2306LV are both priced at $3.10 respectively for 1K pcs. For more information or editorial contacts about this product, call Richard Kulavik at AKM toll-free at 888/256-7364, or visit our Web site at http://www.akm.com.

About AKM Semiconductor

AKM Semiconductor (AKMS) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Asahi Kasei Microsystems Co, (AKM), Tokyo, Japan. AKMS is located in San Jose, California, and offers sales and marketing support for North American customers. AKM designs and manufactures CMOS mixed signal integrated circuits for applications including audio, multimedia, data storage, and telecommunications.