Wolfson Expands Line Of Second-Generation Stereo DACs For Ultra Low-Power Portable Audio Applications.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

SAN DIEGO & EDINBURGH, Scotland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 16, 2003

Wolfson Microelectronics today expanded its line of second-generation high-quality portable audio devices with the introduction of the ultra low-power and highly integrated WM8751L and WM8955L audio DACs. The new products complement the WM8750L CODEC introduced earlier this year.

Both DACs provide all of the input interfacing, output drivers and audio signal processing needed to integrate high quality audio playback, recording and mixing in one package for digital music players, personal DVD players, and digital radios as well as smartphones, PDAs and digital cameras. The WM8955L includes an on-chip phase locked loop (PLL) that is especially useful in reducing size, increasing functionality and reducing cost in applications like PDC, GSM and CDMA mobile phones, and MPEG-4 video players.

Both devices can generate up to 400mW directly to a speaker, stereo headphones and line outputs. Headphones are automatically detected and enhanced audio signal processing produces CD-quality sound. Analog mixer inputs, with differential mono inputs, reduce noise interference in phone handsets.

Advanced on-chip digital signal processing performs graphic equalization, including enhanced bass boost. The fully integrated, high-quality DAC delivers a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 98dB with a total harmonic distortion (THD) of -95dB.

Operating from supply voltages between 1.8V and 3.6V, the WM8751L and WM8955L also incorporate power efficient design and allow all major functional blocks of the device to be powered down under software control. Both are pin compatible with the WM8750L.

"Wolfson's second-generation audio DAC reduce power consumption, provide high integration and superior audio performance," said David Milne, CEO and managing director of Wolfson Microelectronics. "This expanded DAC family distinguishes itself from competing products with excellent audio signal processing, dynamic mixing and efficient interfacing."

Availability

Both products are available now, supplied in leadless, chip-scale 5x5mm QFN packages. The WM8751L is priced at $2.31/10,000 (U.S.) and the WM8955L is $2.68/10,000 (U.S.). Device drivers for selected platforms and operating systems are also available.

About Wolfson Microelectronics

Wolfson Microelectronics plc., develops mixed-signal semiconductors for multimedia and communications applications. Privately-held and based in Edinburgh, UK, Wolfson brings digital technology to life. Products integrating Wolfson technology include the Apple iPod, HP printers & multifunction machines, Microsoft Xbox, and the Toshiba Pocket PC e740. For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.wolfsonmicro.com.

For more information contact:

Wolfson Microelectronics plc, Bernard Terrace, Edinburgh, EH8 9NX, United Kingdom, Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone] Email: [e-mail] Web: www.wolfsonmicro.com