Microchip Launches Next-Generation Dual-Mode Bluetooth® Audio Products

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Microchip Technology Inc., a global leading supplier of integrated microcontroller, mixed signal, analog devices and flash patent solutions, recently announced the launch of the IS206X series of new generation dual-mode Bluetooth® audio products. The new products are based on Microchip's popular and highly integrated SoC (system-level chip) devices and modules, the IS202X product portfolio, and add Bluetooth low energy (BLE) capabilities. This flash-based platform is specially designed for speakers, headphones and gaming headsets, with sufficient flexibility and powerful design performance to help audio manufacturers easily integrate wireless connectivity in streaming music and voice command applications.

The new product includes a high-performance 32-bit digital signal processing (DSP) core that provides a framework for developing complex algorithms to achieve advanced audio and voice processing functions. At the same time, 24-bit digital audio support creates a richer listening experience for consumers with high-resolution audio. The sound system composed of multiple Bluetooth speakers benefits from the ultra-low latency of audio streaming, making the audio played by each speaker very synchronized. Due to the implementation of powerful 16 kHz wideband voice, noise suppression and echo cancellation functions, applications such as professional headsets benefit from high-definition voice. In addition, the added firmware update function can keep the product software and configuration settings constantly upgraded.

IS206X series devices comply with the Bluetooth v4.2 standard, supporting enhanced data rate (EDR) links and standard audio profiles. With the powerful combination of BLE and Advanced Audio Distribution Protocol (A2DP), we can achieve communication from smartphones to speakers through a mobile application. Customized applications provide creative control functions including pairing, remote control, and real-time sound effect adjustment, bringing consumers a rich user experience.

“Consumers expect not only high-quality sound, but also a richer user experience that simplifies communication and interaction with their audio devices,” said Steve Caldwell, vice president of Microchip’s Wireless Solutions Division. “Our IS206X family is designed with this in mind, combining the convenience of a portable wireless speaker with a highly simplified interface that allows consumers to easily connect and control multiple devices.”

The IS206X series has a variety of different devices to facilitate customers to customize their wireless needs. For designs that require a turnkey solution to achieve fast time to market, customers can choose to configure the module with a Class 1 or Class 2 device to take full advantage of the powerful performance of the chip. All modules have been fully certified by the following major regulatory agencies: the United States (FCC) and Canada (IC), the European Economic Area (CE), South Korea (KCC), Taiwan (NCC) and Japan (MIC).

To simplify development, Microchip has also introduced four evaluation boards designed specifically for the IS206X series devices. The BM-62-EVB, BM-63-EVB, BM-64-EVB-C2 and BM-64-EVB-C1 are available now. To purchase the above evaluation boards, visit microchipDIRECT or contact Microchip's global authorized distributors.

The following devices are now in production and available in quantities of 10,000:

For additional information, contact a Microchip sales representative or authorized worldwide distributor, or visit Microchip's website. To purchase products mentioned in this press release, visit microchipDIRECT or contact a Microchip authorized distribution partner.