Modern PCB Design Practices: Part 1 — An Overview of the Process
In this two-part series, Ethan Winer examines current practices and methods for designing four-layer printed circuit boards using surface-mounted components (SMDs). A great article for our DIY readers and many developers who often are faced with the need to build and test their projects on a properly designed, prototype printed circuit board. Part 1 presents an overview of the process, while Part 2 he will explain specific strategies. Many related issues will be described along the way.
Jabra Releases Affordable Elite 4 ANC True Wireless Earbuds with Bluetooth Multipoint
Jabra, the personal sound and hybrid work solutions brand from GN Group, launched the Elite 4, the latest addition to its successful true wireless earbuds Elite lineup. The new design maintains the already familiar form-facto and basically updates the Bluetooth platform to support 5.2 and gain Bluetooth Multipoint connectivity and easy pairing with Fast Pair and Swift Pair. It also adds 4-mic call technology.
ESS Technology Introduces ES9069Q & ES9039Q2M 2-Channel Digital-to-Analog Converters
ESS Technology introduced two new SABRE Series high performance Digital-to-Analog 2-channel converters targeting applications that require outstanding stereo performance. According to the semiconductor company, the new ES9069Q and ES9039Q2M SABRE DACs continue to set the benchmark in ultra-low noise digital conversion with a dynamic range (DNR) of +130dB and -120dB THD+N per channel.
New Dolby Atmos Renderer Software All-in-One Solution for Audio Professionals and Creators
Dolby Laboratories announced the Dolby Atmos Renderer application, a new product that brings together Dolby’s audio production tools – the Dolby Atmos Production Suite and the Dolby Atmos Mastering Suite – into an all-in-one solution for creators. The new software combines existing functionality, including tools exclusively available only in the Dolby Atmos Mastering Suite, and adds new capabilities like native Apple Silicon compatibility and improved performance.
The Cinema Designer (TCD) 2.0 Updates Expands Original Vision, Features and Functionality
Back to the hands of its original creator and home cinema designer Guy Singleton, The Cinema Designer application 2.0 introduces renewed features and functionality, now allowing designers to add acoustic treatment and predict room modes. The new 3D models of any cinema environment offer accurate models of where nulls and room modes will occur. The application is also expanding on acoustic treatment placement tools, and adding features specific content creation spaces and production studios.
Synaptics Resonate Offers Integrated Audio and Haptics Solution for Embedded Displays
Following successful demonstrations at CES 2023 and Embedded World 2023 - and other tradeshows and events in between - Synaptics has officially announced the availability of its Synaptics Resonate solution that uses a display's surface as a sound and haptics transducer. The Resonate solution combines amplifiers, DSP, and algorithms uniquely designed to drive lower than 1mm thick piezo transducers, attached to any surface.
Mytek Audio Introduces Brooklyn Bridge II Roon Core Streamer, DAC, and Preamplifier
Mytek Audio is now shipping its new Brooklyn Bridge II Roon Core. The new design combines a Roon Core server, high-end streamer, DAC, preamplifier with phono MM/MC input, and headphone amplifier in a single unit. This all-in-one system allows users to explore the Roon music player system without the need to set up a complex network or use multiple devices.
Audiomovers Web Transmitter Allows Sharing Audio in Real Time From a Web Browser
British software company Audiomovers has introduced Web Transmitter, a software extension to the company's ListenTo software suite, which allows users to stream, listen to and record high-resolution PCM multichannel audio remotely and in real time. Web Transmitter is a simplified, web-based version of the ListenTo app, which launches straight from a browser.
New SPL Diamond Desktop DAC and Preamplifier Serves Up to Six Digital Stereo Sources
Sound Performance Lab (SPL) continues to design extraordinary audio electronics, and forgetting to let the world know about it. The latest product to be dropped on the world by the company is a new digital to analog converter worthy of attention by those who need top audio playback quality from their digital sources. The new Diamond from SPL is a premium DAC and preamplifier with support for up to 32-bit/768kHz digital PCM and DSD256 audio decoding through the AKM AK4490 DAC and analog DLP120 dual low-pass filter chips.
USound Launches Kore 4.0 Integrated MEMS Speaker Module for TWS and OTC Hearing Aids
USound has launched Kore 4.0, a fully integrated audio module that incorporates Usound’s Tarvos, a brand new ultra-low power audio amplifier, and Conamara, its latest generation of MEMS drivers. According to the MEMS-based audio technology specialist, with its compact form factor, superior audio performance, and low power consumption, Kore 4.0 is an ideal match for hearables and Over-The-Counter (OTC) hearing aids.