NXP launches USB headset solution for mobile phones

The high-performance solution heralds a shift of core audio streaming functions to the USB connector on the host device next to the existing battery charging and PC synchronization functions.

USB 2.0 enabled headsets provide a design path to ultra-thin devices with a simplified design and a single standardized connection interface and this enables a significant reduction in bill-of-material costs and a quicker time to market.

The Nexperia PNX0161 has built-in DSP software, allowing OEMs to pre-set equalizers and maximize echo cancellation for improved sound quality. The programmable ARM7TDMI core integrates a DC/DC converter that powers through the USB bus.

Fully compliant with USB specifications, the solution 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.

According to In-Stat analyst, Brian O'Rourke, "By 2011, high-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."

In addition, NXP has enhanced its 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.

The single-chip Nexperia PNX0161 is a small, ultra-low power Hi-speed USB 2.0-compliant solution that provides stereo playback and recording, as well as FM radio.

Available in a TFBGA88 package (7mm x 7mm), NXP's Nexperia PNX0161 requires very little power (about 10 mA at Vbus) for playback mode. Embedded power management functionality, alongside intelligent power control also contributes to this highly power-efficient solution.

Especially designed to suppress noise coming from the host, the PNX0161 is available in two versions—programmable Flash or cost-effective ROM—that can be switched seamlessly during product ramp-ups.

A technical leaflet on NXP's Nexperia ultra-low power, single-chip USB audio solution, PNX0161, can be found at www.nxp.com/acrobat_download/literature/9397/75015981.pdf .