Ear Jack Audio Output Switching for High-Power External Playback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional portable terminals have limited audio signal output capacity, typically around 2-5 mW, which can result in low audio quality when connected to external devices via an ear jack, unless the external device is equipped with a high power amplifier.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a modem to detect connection to an external apparatus via an ear jack and an amplifier to high power-amplify the audio signal for output to the external device, allowing for enhanced audio signal transmission without the need for an external amplifier.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the portable terminal uses a standard ear jack output for external devices, then the audio signal output capacity is limited to 2-5 mW, but this results in low audio quality when connected to external devices that lack high power amplifiers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between two amplifier modes: a first amplifier for earphones and a second amplifier for external devices. The system automatically detects the connected device type and switches between amplification modes, enabling the ear jack to dynamically adapt its output characteristics based on the load requirements, thereby resolving the contradiction between limited power output and audio quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the amplification parameters by switching between different amplifier circuits with different power capabilities. When an external device is detected, the system transitions from the first amplifier (2-5 mW) to the second amplifier (higher power), effectively changing the output power parameter to match the external device's requirements and improve audio quality.
2Reliability
If the external device is equipped with a high power amplifier, then audio quality is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The portable terminal's ear jack is designed with multi-functionality, serving both earphone output and external device audio output. By integrating a second high-power amplifier that can be activated when external devices are detected, the system provides universal compatibility without requiring external devices to have their own amplifiers, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining audio quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable terminal acts as an intermediary by providing the necessary amplification power through its second amplifier when external devices are connected. This eliminates the need for external devices to incorporate their own high power amplifiers, transferring the amplification function from the external device to the portable terminal and thereby reducing overall system cost.
3Power
If the portable terminal provides speaker output signal to the ear jack, then high power audio output is achieved, but the system must detect and differentiate between earphones and external apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a detection mechanism that provides feedback about the connected device type to the amplifier switching control. When a device is connected to the ear jack, the system detects electrical characteristics to determine whether it is an earphone or external device, and this feedback triggers the appropriate amplifier mode, enabling intelligent adaptation without complex user intervention.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables high power-amplified audio signal output to external devices, improving audio quality and reducing manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for an external amplifier, while allowing for easy upgrade to higher power audio signals when desired.
Implementation Method 1
an amplifier for, when connection of the external apparatus is detected, high power-amplifying the audio signal and outputting the same to the external apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method for outputting an audio signal in a portable terminal are provided. The portable terminal for outputting an audio signal includes an ear jack, a modem, and an amplifier. The ear jack connects the portable terminal with one of an earphone and an external apparatus. The modem detects whether one of the earphone and the external apparatus is connected to the ear jack. When connection of the external apparatus is detected, the amplifier high power-amplifies the audio signal and outputs the same to the external apparatus according to a control of the modem.