STMicroelectronics Announces New Audio Amplifier IC That Leverages the Expertise of Alps Alpine

New-generation class-D amplifier boosts car-audio sound quality

STMicroelectronics announced the new FDA901 class-D audio amplifier IC, with a semiconductor design that incorporates the world-class audio design expertise of Alps Alpine, a major Japanese manufacturer of car audio equipment and information communication equipment. The new chip aims to contribute to the creation of multi-function, high-fidelity car audio systems that fuse the high efficiency of class-D amplifiers with the high-quality sound of ST’s class-AB amplifiers.

The FDA901 features low residual noise, a low distortion ratio, a flat frequency response achieved through feedback technology, and low EMI levels. It delivers high-purity audio performance by minimizing dropout of audio signals. Equipped with a range of self-diagnostics and other advanced functions to measure real-time speaker current and impedance, factors prized in the next-generation car audio market for diagnostics and to compensate for loudspeaker imperfections, FDA901 is a class-D audio amplifier IC that simultaneously shows both extremely high-quality sound and very innovative features that improve sound fidelity.

The FDA901 is in volume production. Budgetary pricing is $9.10 for orders of 1,000 pieces and the product will be available through distributors by April 2020.

Features

• AEC-Q100 qualified
• Integrated 110 dB D/A conversion
• I²S and TDM digital input (3.3/1.8 V)
• Input sampling frequency: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 96 kHz and 192 kHz
• Class-D channels with 93% efficiency
• CISPR25 - Class V (Fourth Edition)
• Low radiation function (LRF)
• Output lowpass filter included in the feedback allowing superior audio performance
• High output power capability
  • 28 W/4 Ω 10% THD, Vd = 14.4 V
  • Max. output power: 4 × 50 W/4 Ω @ 15.2 V, 1 kHz
• Full I²C bus driving (3.3/1.8 V):
  • Channel independent Eco-Mode
  • Channel independent soft play/mute
• I²C bus diagnostics, including DC and AC load detection and load value recognition
• Integrated fault protection
• Input and output offset detector
• Clipping detector
• Real time load current monitoring (on I²C and TDM data lines)
• ESD protection
• 6 V operation ("Start - Stop" engines compatibility)
• 2 and 1 Ω load driving capability