A low-power audio codec that optimizes audio performance and prevents speaker damage

Maxim's new audio codec MAX98089 simplifies audio design with an easy-to-use software interface

SUNNYVALE, CA—July 14, 2011—Maxim Integrated Products (NASDAQ: MXIM) has launched the MAX98089, a highly integrated stereo audio codec that enhances audio performance and prevents speaker damage. Its user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) significantly simplifies product design. To minimize the number of discrete components required for the solution, an integrated jack detection function recognizes button presses as well as the insertion and removal of peripherals. With power consumption of just 5.6mW in headphone (including DAC) standby, it extends battery life with a 15% improvement in performance compared to competing products. With its ease of use, low power consumption, superior audio performance, and small wafer-level package (WLP), the MAX98089 is ideal for portable multimedia applications such as tablets, netbooks, and mobile phones.

The MAX98089 features Maxim’s proprietary FlexSound™ audio technology to optimize signal levels and frequency response while minimizing distortion in the output. This technology enhances loudspeaker performance and prevents speaker damage. FlexSound audio technology provides a complete toolkit to improve loudspeaker playback performance and voice delivery. An easy-to-use GUI allows users to evaluate and optimize the MAX98089’s 5-band parametric EQ, Automatic Level Control (ALC), speaker deviation limit, speaker power limit, and total speaker distortion (THD) limit. Software drivers for Linux® and other OS platforms are provided for application flexibility. Finally, automatic gain control (AGC) and noise gate optimize the signal level of the microphone input signal to maximize the utilization of the MAX98089's ADC dynamic range and improve speech conversion.

The MAX98089 is designed to eliminate the need for external discrete components found in most competing solutions. This device provides a Class H stereo headphone amplifier with an integrated dual-mode charge pump. This design eliminates the need for large output capacitors and ensures click-and-pop-free operation when powering on or off, or when changing the volume. A ground-sensing feature reduces output noise by utilizing a ground return current. The low-EMI, stereo, Class D speaker amplifier offers filterless operation when amplifying two speakers. The amplifier integrated into the device delivers the performance required by modern applications without the need for separate amplifiers.

The MAX98089 is available in space-saving (3.8mm x 3.3mm, 0.4mm pitch), 63-bump WLP or 7mm x 7mm, 56-pin TQFN packages and operates over a wide temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. More details can be found at http://www.maxim-ic.com/Mobility .