CODEC Integrates Class W Amp

The WM8904 audio CODEC with Class W headphone and line drivers promises to significantly extend playback time in portable apps. The company’s Class W amplifier technology tracks signal levels and uses an adaptive dual-drive charge pump to optimize power dissipation. The chip’s ground-referenced output also eliminates the need for large, dc-blocking capacitors. Other features include a DAC-capacitor switching architecture that enables a DAC-to-headphone-power consumption of 4 mW and delivers up to 30 mW per channel into a headphone load. Available in a 32-lead, 36-ball 4 mm x 4 mm QFN CSP package, price is $2.14 each/1,000. WOLFSON MICROELECTRONICS PLC, San Diego, CA. (858) 676-5090.