AMD's New InterWave LC Audio Processor Delivers Low-Cost Wavetable Synthesis.

AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 6, 1996--AMD today announced immediate availability of the Am78C200 InterWave(TM) LC audio processor, a low-cost wavetable synthesis PC audio solution for mainstream systems that renders FM-synthesis obsolete.

The InterWave LC processor, a cost-reduced version of the original InterWave processor, for the first time enables manufacturers to design entry-level wavetable add-in cards, or to put affordable wavetable sound directly on PC motherboards at consumer price points competitive with FM solutions.

The InterWave LC device is software- and pin-compatible with AMD's existing Am78C201 InterWave processor, allowing designers to produce new line extension products with minimal hardware changes.

"The old FM audio solution dramatically compromises the incredible sound of today's sophisticated game and music MIDI files," said Bob Krueger, vice president of AMD's I/O and Network Products Division.

"Our goal in adding the LC product to the InterWave processor line is to deliver wavetable sound -- the ultimate multimedia audio experience -- at a price that makes it the equipment of choice for end-user PCs."

Sharing many of the features of the original InterWave processor, the InterWave LC device offers the latest sound technology in a single chip: full-duplex voice communications capability for real-time interactive conversation over the Internet, a 16-bit, 32-voice stereo wavetable synthesizer, 16-bit recording and playback, an audio mixer compatible with the MPC Level 3 standard, a joystick port, a serial DSP port for upgrades and a MIDI port.

The new InterWave LC processor is targeted at end users who want realistic CD-quality wavetable audio, but do not require delay-based effects such as reverb and echo in their multimedia applications.

By eliminating the special effects processor and the associated need for an on-chip DRAM interface and external DRAM, the total cost of a wavetable audio solution is reduced. Mono microphone and mono record features add to system savings.

The device stores 128 General MIDI instruments in an external 1Mbyte ROM. FM synthesis is supported through software emulation for compatibility with FM-based applications.

Fully compliant with the Plug and Play standard for easy installation, the InterWave LC processor also supports all of today's major PC-audio sound standards and provides an ideal engine for communicating over the Internet or running the Microsoft Windows(R) 95 Game SDK audio feature set.

"I had a chance to hear AMD's InterWave wavetable audio technology in Core Dynamic's new DynaSonix add-in card and it sounds absolutely awesome," said Claire Grant, Multimedia Buyer for Ingram Micro. "The InterWave device is an outstanding PC audio product."

AMD's Am78C200 InterWave LC processor is available now in a 160-pin PQFP package, priced at $19.50 each in quantities of 10,000.

AMD is a global supplier of integrated circuits for the personal and networked computer and communications markets. AMD produces processors, flash memories, programmable logic devices, and products for communications and networking applications. Founded in 1969 and based in Sunnyvale, Calif., AMD had revenues of $2.5 billion in 1995 (NYSE:AMD).

World Wide Web: Press announcements and other information about AMD are available on the Internet via the World Wide Web. Type http://www.amd.com at the URL prompt. -0-

Note to Editors: Readers may obtain additional information by calling 800/222-9323 or 408/749-5703.

InterWave is a trademark of Advanced Micro Devices Inc. AMD, the AMD logo and combinations thereof are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices Inc.

Product names used in this publication are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective companies.

CONTACT: Advanced Micro Devices Inc.

John Wilkinson, 512/602-2292