Audio amp promises clearer sound, longer battery life

Fairchild Semiconductor International Inc. has unleashed a 2.3W class-D audio amplifier with integrated boost regulator and battery automatic gain control (AGC). According to the company, the FAB3103 enables loud and clear speaker sound in mobile device designs.

The company said the audio amp is geared for mobile handsets, smartphones and tablets, as well as portable media players. The FAB3103 has an integrated boost regulator that allows for high audio output power over a power supply range of 2.5-5.2V from a 3.6V Li-ion battery, added Fairchild.

At low power output, the device's boost regulator automatically shuts down for greater efficiency and lower quiescent current consumption, resulting in longer battery runtime. The FAB3103 audio amplifier also features battery AGC that reduces gain when the power supply voltage is low in order to limit maximum power consumption, reducing distortion and preventing early device shutdown, explained the company.

Available in a 12-bump, WL-CSP, the FAB3103 device offers several protection features including short circuit protection, low voltage shutdown and click and pop suppression. Additionally, the low EMI design of the device allows for filterless operation with high noise rejection using differential audio inputs, improving sound quality, Fairchild noted.

The FAB3103 is available for $0.44 in 1,000 quantity pieces with 8-10 weeks ARO. Samples are available upon request.