Digital Audio Clock Selection for Multi-Input Word Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In large concert venues, setting the word clock supply source for multiple digital amplifiers is cumbersome and prone to errors, leading to issues with audio signal output, particularly for users accustomed to analog amplifiers.
Innovation Solution
A digital audio device with multiple input ports, extraction parts to detect clock signals, a selection mechanism to automatically choose the word clock from either input ports or an internal generator, and a frequency storage system to ensure continuous synchronization of digital audio signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration of word clock input port is implemented for each digital amplifier, then clock signal synchronization can be achieved, but user operation complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The digital amplifier automatically detects clock signals from multiple input ports and self-configures the word clock source without requiring manual user intervention. The system performs automatic detection, frequency comparison, and source selection to establish proper synchronization
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by detecting clock signal frequencies from different input ports and automatically selecting the appropriate source based on frequency matching and signal quality, thereby adapting to the actual connection configuration
2Ease of operation
If dedicated word clock input terminal is provided, then clock signal reception is simplified, but device structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The input ports are designed to serve dual purposes: receiving both digital audio signals and clock signals through the same interface. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated word clock terminals while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the audio signal input and clock signal input functions into a single input port interface, merging previously separate functions into one unified connection point that handles both signal types
3Ease of operation
If automatic word clock selection is implemented, then user burden is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic detection and selection of the word clock source through self-service mechanisms, including automatic scanning of input ports, frequency detection, and intelligent source selection without requiring user configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring clock signal presence and quality from multiple input ports, using the detected information to automatically adjust and select the optimal word clock source
Data Source
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AI summary
A digital audio device has a plurality of input ports that are provided with a plurality of digital audio signals. A plurality of extraction parts extract a clock signal from the digital audio signal, when the clock signal is superimposed in the digital audio signal provided to corresponding input ports. A first selection part selects the extracted clock signal as a word clock when the clock signal is extracted by any one of the plurality of the extraction parts. A frequency storage part stores a frequency of the clock signal selected by the first selection part. An internal clock generator outputs a clock signal having a frequency as specified. A second selection part selects the clock signal output from the internal clock generator as a word clock when no clock signal is extracted by the plurality of the extraction parts, the frequency of the clock signal output from the internal clock generator being set to the frequency stored in the frequency storage part. A reception part receives the digital audio signals provided to the plurality of the input ports in synchronization with the word clock selected by one of the first selection part and the second selection part.