NXP Semiconductors (News - Alert) has launched a new solution to drive the standardization of USB 2.0 for portable consumer devices – the world’s first USB-driven digital audio headset solution, Nexperia PNX0161.

 

Leveraging the USB 2.0 standard, the new solution from NXP shifts the core audio streaming functions to the USB connector on the host device, alongside the existing battery charging and PC synchronization functions. This addresses the market need for ultra-thin devices with a simplified design and a single standardized connection interface, enabling a marked reduction in bill-of-material costs and a quicker time to market.

 

In-Stat (News - Alert) analyst, Brian O’Rourke predicts that by 2011, Hi-speed USB will dominate as the local interface on portable devices, feeding a market of 2.7 billion units at a CAGR of 24.4 percent.

 

Hans Fleurkens, product marketing manager, Mobile & Personal Business Unit, NXP Semiconductors explains that USB is fast emerging as a de facto connectivity interface in portable devices.

 

“NXP is leveraging its pole position to promote the adoption of USB technology with industry-first innovations, setting the stage for the future of USB applications for better connectivity and convenience on mobile phones, consumer electronics and PC peripherals,” said Fleurkens in a statement.

 

“Power consumption was the biggest challenge to the provision of digital audio on a headset, and NXP’s PNX0161 is the first to address this most efficiently, while also offering a choice of functionality through a programmable core,” he added.

 

NXP’s Nexperia PNX0161, has built-in DSP software, which allows OEMs to pre-set equalizers and maximize echo cancellation for improved sound quality. As the programmable ARM7TDMI core is embedded with a DC/DC converter, it powers through the USB bus. The solution is fully compliant with USB specifications,

offers plug-and-play operation with any USB host or On-The-Go (OTG) device and supports USB Audio and Human Interface Device (HID) classes.

 

The company foresees the emerging standardization of USB 2.0 in mobile devices, and is expanding its applications for a compelling GSM/MP3 docking station reference design for maximum functionality such as mobile phone and MP3 player power charging, FM-radio enabled speakers and Bluetooth connection.

 

 

 

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