October 29, 2013, Seoul — STMicroelectronics (ST), a global semiconductor company providing a wide range of electronic applications, has unveiled the TDA7802, a start-stop compatible automotive audio power amplifier. This new product is the first automotive start-stop compatible audio power amplifier that combines the performance and cost advantages of digital inputs with the simplicity and enhanced efficiency of analog Class SB-I amplifiers.

The TDA7802 is one of ST's 'Green Power' products specially designed to support advanced technologies for eco-friendly vehicles, such as start-stop (micro-hybrid). Start-stop is a technology that reduces emissions by shutting off the engine instead of idling. The TDA7802 operates seamlessly even if the supply voltage drops when restarting the engine.

Since the digital input of this product is directly connected to a digital sound processor, it does not require components such as digital-to-analog converters and low-pass filters. This approach not only reduces the size and cost of the application but also enables clearer sound and improves the environment for use with other devices, such as mobile phones.

Meanwhile, analog Class SB-I (SB Improvement) amplifiers can reduce heat loss by as much as 50% compared to conventional analog Class AB amplifiers, allowing for smaller heatsinks or the addition of features to the head unit within the same thermal budget. Thanks to this excellent thermal performance, the TDA7802 can serve as an easy alternative in situations where Class D solutions cannot be used.

The TDA7802 delivers a maximum output power of 4x50W to 4Ω speakers and can drive speakers with low loads down to 1Ω. In addition, it has excellent noise performance with an input signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 115dB and a dynamic range of over 110dB. It has a built-in diagnostic function that can prevent short-circuit failures and speaker disconnection.

ST's latest amplifier, the TDA7802, is currently available in PowerSO36 and Flexiwatt27 through-hole/surface mount packages, starting at $7 per unit for orders of 1,000 or more.
More information can be found at www.st.com/tda7802 .