MP3 Chip for Decoding and Encoding

The MAS 3587F is a new MP3 chip designed to enable both decoding (playback) and encoding (recording) of music in digital MP3 format. The chip allows the development of MP3 recorder/playback products that do not have to rely on a PC or the Internet as the only source for MP3 music files, according to the developer. Besides the chip, only one stand-alone controller and the flash memory card are needed in order to build a complete MP3 recorder, allowing system manufacturers to develop cost-effective portable MP3 recorders.

The chip's encoding functions are realized in software. Footprint and pin out of the chip are identical to its predecessor, the MAS 3509F. Besides MP3, it also supports AAC Decoding (Advanced Audio Coding) and various formats of voice recording.

The chips are based on a RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) architecture and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), enabling efficient processing of audio data. The highly integrated ICs feature on-chip high performance stereo A/D and D/A converters, as well as headphone and microphone amplifiers.

Additionally, two DC/DC converters allow the chip to run at 2 V while other components in the device such as flash memories (requiring 2.7 to 3.3 V) can synchronously run at higher voltage levels. The chip features Micronas Perfect Bass (MPB), an integrated audio algorithm that provides high sound quality and automatic volume control. The product offers both serial and parallel I/Os and comes in 1.4-mm high, 64-pin TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Package) package.

Micronas GmbH,, Hans-Bunte-Strasse 19, D-79108 Freiburg, PO Box 840, D-79008 Freiburg, Germany. Tel: +49-761-517-0. Fax: +49-761-517-2174.