Voice chips from Zarlink enable hands-free communication

Zarlink Semiconductor unveiled voice processing chips aimed at improving voice quality and reducing noise in hands-free communication devices.

The ZL38002 uses an advanced adaptive algorithm that constantly tracks and reduces background noise while preserving high voice quality. Voice signals are transmitted in both directions, allowing natural two-way conversation, even when signal levels are low. The ZL38002 chip utilizes an advanced non-linear process design supporting full-duplex speech with no switched loss of the signal path. Zarlink's algorithm design operates during double-talk situations when both callers are speaking at the same time.

Hands-free system microphones also pick up background noise, such as an accelerating car engine and tire noise, which further degrades voice quality. Zarlink's acoustic echo canceller technology is specifically designed to deliver exceptional performance in high background noise environments.

Programmable noise reduction allows the user to adjust the noise cancellation level to meet system requirements without distorting the audio signal. The ZL38002 acoustic echo canceller integrates other advanced features to ensure high sound quality, including anti-howling detection that identifies instability in the audio path and automatically takes preventative measures to avoid oscillation.

"Poor voice quality has plagued hands-free communication in cars, meeting rooms and other locations where background noise and echo degrade speech," said Andre Coucopoulos, marketing manager, Voice Processing, Zarlink Semiconductor. "Optimized for hands-free communications, the ZL38002 voice processing chip builds on a proven algorithm deployed in telecom applications where voice quality is an absolute requirement to ensure a natural sounding conversation in high-noise situations."

The ZL38002 device is now available in a 36-pin QSOP and 48-pin TQFP measuring 7-by-7mm. Pb-free package options are also available. The chip is fully supported by an evaluation board, hands-free car kit application board and API software.

The device is priced at $5.50 in 1,000quantities.

- Bettyann Liotta
eeProductCenter