AKM Sets New Standard for Digital Audio Flexibility and Performance: Announces 20-bit Codec with Integrated DSP.

SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 16, 1997--AKM Semiconductor Inc. today introduced the AK7712A, which integrates a 20-bit stereo A/D, four 20-bit output D/A channels and an innovative proprietary 24-bit fixed-point DSP.

The AK7712 provides a dynamic range of 97dB for both the A/D and D/A channels using a proprietary delta-sigma architecture, and its DSP allows 383 instruction cycles, with up to six operations per cycle, while operating with a full 48kHz audio sample rate. Complete flexibility is assured, since the A/D, D/A, and DSP sections are accessible independently, making the AK7712A an ideal solution in a wide range of applications.

Exceptional 3D audio using high-end algorithms from companies including Aureal, Dolby, QSound Labs, and SRS is easy to implement with the AK7712A. AKM is working closely with these and other companies, and code for a variety of proprietary audio enhancement methods is already available.

According to George Hill, technical marketing manager for multimedia products, "In my living room, I can believe I am in Central Park while listening to one track on a CD, and in a coffee house in Berkeley on the next, through simple reprogramming of the AK7712."

Even better, the AK7712A has enough power left after implementing any of the major 3D enhancement algorithms to add other functions such as reverberation, echo cancellation, etc.

The original AK7712 is already used in volume in Japan in car audio applications, and the newer AK7712A will open additional markets, since its smaller die size allows even more aggressive pricing.

One example emphasizes the flexibility of this chip: with the addition of a external low cost stereo D/A, a full 6-channel output system can be easily and cost effectively implemented. Thus the AK7712A comes out at the ideal time for designers contemplating innovative products for emerging DVD ROM markets.

"A decade of investment in sub-micron aimed at mixed-signal excellence made the AK7712A possible," says Hill, "while a design community with high-end audio delta sigma and DSP experience under one roof made it happen."

The AK7712A is available in a space saving 100 lead LQFP package, offering significant PC board savings as compared with discrete solutions using separate DSP, ADC and DACs. It is in full production today, and is priced from $19.50 at 5,000 pieces. An evaluation board and development software are available to speed development efforts.

Further information on the AK7712A is available toll-free at 888/AKM-SEMI (256-7364) or on the web at http:/www.akm.com .

Founded in October 1995 in San Jose, Calif., AKM Semiconductor Inc. is the North American sales and marketing organization for Asahi Kasei Microsystems (AKM) Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of Asahi Chemical Industry Co. Ltd. in Japan.

AKM is a worldwide leader in integrated circuits for digital audio and telecommunications markets, with extensive delta-sigma, DSP and EEPROM design experience. It designs, markets, and manufactures CMOS mixed-signal ICs for the personal computer, professional audio, consumer electronics, and cellular phone industries in particular. AKM is ISO 9001- certified, including both of its sub-micron mixed-signal fab operations. -0-

Note to Editors: Photographs available upon request

CONTACT: AKM Semiconductor, Inc.

George Hill, 408/436-8580

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