The WM8350 audio codec from Wolfson Microelectronics integrates a high-fidelity audio codec and power management subsystem to provide a single-chip solution for portable audio/multimedia systems. The first product in the company's AudioPlus power management product line, the WM8350 is compatible with leading multimedia processors and is designed to offer a highly integrated solution without compromising audio performance.

On-chip functions include a low-power audio codec, clock generator, four 2-MHz and two 1-MHz dc/dc converters, four LDOs, a battery charger, two white LED drivers, and an auxiliary ADC (see WM8350 block diagram). According to the company, the WM8350 can save up to 25% on the BOM cost and 50% on the board footprint compared to using separate codec and power management chips.

Specifications include an SNR of 98 dB (DAC) and 95 dB (ADC), and a THD of -84 dB (DAC) and -80 dB (ADC). Other features include a programmable high-pass filter for the ADC, six analog inputs, two stereo analog outputs, two mono line outputs, and a headphone output.

The WM8350 also includes thirteen GPIO pins that can be programmed for alternate system functions, including system wake-ups and enabling low-power operation. The device can be optimized to control power-up, power-down and low-power sequences for different system requirements.

Availability: The WM8350 is sampling now in a 129-pin 7x7-mm BGA package.

Product literature:
WM8350 data page
WM8350 block diagram
WM8350 product flyer (PDF)

Wolfson Microelectronics, +44 (0) 131 272 7000, www.wolfsonmicro.com