Edinburgh, UK, 22 June 2011 – Wolfson Microelectronics plc has today announced the WM8918, its latest high performance ultra-low power stereo digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) which delivers superior audio to portable applications including mobile phones, tablet PCs, wireless headsets, multimedia players and handheld gaming devices.

The WM8918 features stereo ground-referenced headphone amplifiers, using Wolfson’s Class-W amplifier and an innovative dual-mode charge pump architecture to optimise efficiency and power consumption during playback, eliminate AC coupling capacitors to reduce PCB area, BOM cost and also improve bass response.

The WM8918 also features Wolfson’s SilentSwitch(TM) technology which minimises audible pops and clicks and shortens software driver development. The integrated dynamic range controller provides compression and level control to enhance the playback experience. It can also be used to ensure high quality record performance when used to process signals captured by the on-chip digital microphone interface. The WM8918 also features Wolfson’s ReTune(TM) Mobile 5-band parametric equaliser with fully programmable coefficients to optimise speaker characteristics and further enhance the playback experience.

With 3.8mW quiescent power consumption for DAC to headphone playback and a DAC signal-to-noise ratio of 96dB typical, the WM8918 can operate directly from a 1.8V switched supply. The digital core can also be operated from a 1.0V supply for optimal power consumption.

David Brown, Product Line Manager for Amplifiers and Convertors at Wolfson Microelectronics, said: “With a range of innovative features, and the ability to deliver crystal-clear audio and ultra-low power consumption, the WM8918 represents the ideal solution for a wide range of today’s world-leading portable audio applications.”

Availability and pricing

The WM8918 is available for sampling now in a 4mm x 4mm 32-pin QFN package.
The pricing for the WM8918 is $1.18 for 1k volume.

About Wolfson Microelectronics

Wolfson Microelectronics is a global leader in the supply of high performance, mixed-signal semiconductor solutions to the consumer electronics market. In the home, in the office and on the move, Wolfson’s innovative technology can be found at the heart of many of the world’s leading digital consumer goods, including premier hi-fi equipment, mobile phones, tablet PCs, gaming devices, MP3 players, flat panel TVs, digital still cameras and portable navigation devices.

Wolfson is committed to the design and supply of ground-breaking audio products, including its architecture-defining audio hub solutions, silicon micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) microphones, power management IC’s and noise cancellation solutions, all of which come together to allow Wolfson to deliver industry-leading HD audio to consumer electronics applications. This rich portfolio allows Wolfson’s global customers to better differentiate their digital consumer products and create whole new end-user experiences.

The company’s headquarters is located in Edinburgh, UK. Wolfson’s customers are located worldwide, and so is Wolfson, with design centres, sales offices, applications teams and engineering expertise across Europe, the US and Asia.

Wolfson Microelectronics plc is listed on the London stock exchange (LSE: WLF.L).

For more information about Wolfson Microelectronics, please visit: http://www.wolfsonmicro.com

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