Integrated automotive audio amplifier combines HD sound with class-G efficiency
In Class-G mode, the TDA7901’s buck converter automatically optimises the supply voltage for the bridge-tied load (BTL) power stage depending on the level of the audio signal. The resulting rich sound reproduction takes place at normal volumes with an efficiency that is almost at Class D level. Since the power dissipation is significantly lower than that of a conventional Class A/B amplifier, an optimised, i.e. significantly smaller, heat sink can be used. The integration of the buck regulator into the amplifier IC not only helps to reduce the dimensions and weight of the overall system, but also reduces the component effort, simplifies the circuit design and eliminates the need to develop firmware to regulate the supply voltage.
The TDA7901 is suitable for a wide range of in-vehicle information (IVI) systems such as head units, intelligent cockpit systems, external amplifiers, etc. The amplifier provides comprehensive diagnostic information during operation, such as real-time load current monitoring, which is output via I2S or I2C interfaces, enabling ASIL-A certification of safety-related applications such as warning tone generators or AVAS (Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems) applications. The availability of a digital impedance meter further ensures that systems based on the TDA7901 can meet the highest requirements of automotive manufacturers.
With its digital I2S input and intelligent Quad BTL output, the TDA7901 delivers an audio output power of 4 x 43 W (into 4 ohms, saturated output at 14.4 V). Thanks to its 80 kHz bandwidth, the amplifier is also suitable for HD audio. Its wide operating voltage range of 4.5 V to 18.5 V prevents operational interruptions caused by the start-stop function or other electrical transients common in automotive applications. The TDA7901 in the Power SO36 package is expected to go into production in the second half of 2022. Prices start at 7.90 US dollars (from 1,000 units).
https://www.st.com/en/automotive-infotainment-and-telematics/tda7901.html
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