Product category:
Communications ICs (Wired)
News Release from: Zarlink Semiconductor | Subject: ZL38002
Edited by the Electronicstalk Editorial
Team on 17 August 2005
Voice processor improves hands-free
communication
Zarlink Semiconductor has introduced the first in a family of voice processing chips aimed at improving voice quality and reducing noise in hands-free communication devices.
Zarlink Semiconductor has introduced the first in a family of voice processing chips aimed at improving voice quality and reducing noise in hands-free communication devices A leading manufacturer has already designed Zarlink's acoustic echo canceller technology into a hands-free car phone system
This article was originally published on Electronicstalk on 7 Feb 2001 at 8.00am (UK)
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Demand for higher quality hands-free voice technology is growing, particularly as government legislation prohibits the hand-operation of cellphones while driving.
Most European countries already require that drivers have a car kit installed or use a hands-free device.
Other localities worldwide have passed or are considering similar laws.
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Hands-free communication systems are often hindered by acoustic echo that is created when the voice from the loudspeaker in a car kit or conference phone, for example, is picked up by the microphone and retransmitted.
Mobile network delays also make acoustic echo more noticeable.
To compensate, hands-free systems previously used lower performance voice processing technologies that supported only half-duplex operation.
In comparison, the ZL38002 product uses an advanced adaptive algorithm that constantly tracks and reduces background noise while preserving high voice quality.
Voice signals are transmitted in both directions, allowing natural two-way conversation, even when signal levels are low.
The ZL38002 chip utilises an advanced nonlinear process design supporting full-duplex speech with no switched loss of the signal path.
Zarlink's algorithm design operates during double-talk situations when both callers are speaking at the same time.
Zarlink's acoustic echo canceller technology is specifically designed to deliver exceptional performance in high background noise environments.
Programmable noise reduction allows the user to adjust the noise cancellation level to meet system requirements without distorting the audio signal.
The ZL38002 acoustic echo canceller integrates other advanced features to ensure high sound quality, including anti-howling detection that identifies instability in the audio path and automatically takes preventative measures to avoid oscillation.
The ZL38002 acoustic echo canceller is the first in a family of products that will deliver superior voice quality with higher levels of integration for hands-free communication tools.
The ZL38002 device is now available in a 36-pin QSOP (quarter small outline package) and 48-pin TQFP (thin quad flat package) chip measuring just 7 x 7mm.
Lead-free package options are also available.
The chip is fully supported by an evaluation board, hands-free car kit application board and API software.
In quantities of 1000, the device is priced at US $5.50.
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