Texas Instruments Debuts Amplifier that will transform Automotive Audio Design

Texas Instruments debuted the first ever 2.1-MHz Class-D audio amplifier that has been designed specifically for automotive applications. The compact TAS6424-Q1 amplifier supports high-resolution 96-kHz digital input and enables high-fidelity audio with low distortion in automotive infotainment applications. It has an integrated digital-to-analog converter helps deliver a low system output noise of 42 uVrms for automotive designs like external amplifiers and head units. When compared to existing class-D solutions, TAS6424-Q1 reduces system size and cost as it enables the use of smaller external filters and eliminates almost 18 external components. The device also features the industry’s highest switching rate with maximum output power of 75 W per channel and is the only audio amplifier that switches above the AM band. Due to this reason, there is no need for complex avoidance schemes when it it comes to electromagnetic interference and the system easily meets Comité International Spécial des Perturbations Radioélectriques (CISPR) 25 Class 5 EMC requirements.

Designers can easily configure the device with a wide range of outputs like tweeter, woofer and line-level connections as it provides detailed on-chip phase and impedance measurements. When compared to Class-AB amplifiers, TAS6424-Q1 reduces power dissipation by as much as 60 percent, thus greatly reducing the need for fans or large heat sinks.

Tools and support to jump-start design
Designers can use the PurePath Console graphical user interface to easily configure the TAS6424-Q1.