Three-Bit TDM Audio Input with Embedded Control Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compact audio amplifier integrated circuits with limited pins face challenges in supporting I2C interfaces for programming, leading to increased form factor and complexity in providing multiple data lines like I2S, which is not efficiently addressable with existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A multichannel input device system utilizing a three-bit TDM bus with embedded control data, allowing for the extraction of control data from the DIN signal and transmission on a single line, eliminating the need for an I2C control bus, thereby reducing the number of pins required and enabling smaller form factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an I2C interface is provided for programming control data, then device programmability is improved, but the number of required pins increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control data transmission function into the existing TDM data bus by embedding control data within the audio data stream. The I2C interface functionality is combined with the TDM interface, allowing control data to be transmitted through the same physical pins used for audio data, thereby eliminating the need for separate I2C pins.
Solution Approach 2:
The TDM interface is designed to perform multiple functions: it simultaneously handles audio data transmission and control data programming. The same physical interface and pins are used for both audio signal transmission and device configuration, making the interface universal and eliminating the need for dedicated I2C pins.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple data lines like I2S are provided, then audio functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines control data and audio data into a single TDM data stream transmitted over the same physical bus. By merging these functions into one interface, the overall device complexity is reduced compared to having separate I2S and I2C interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The TDM interface is designed as a universal interface that handles both audio data and control data functions. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and interfaces needed, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining full audio functionality.
3Measurement precision
If a separate I2C control bus is used, then control precision is improved, but the number of pins required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges control data transmission with the TDM audio data bus. Control data is embedded within the audio data stream and transmitted through the same physical pins, maintaining control precision while eliminating the need for separate I2C pins.
Solution Approach 2:
The TDM data stream acts as an intermediary carrier that transports both audio data and control data. By using the existing TDM bus as a mediator, control precision is maintained through dedicated control data fields while avoiding the need for additional physical pins.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for developing TDM data with embedded control data includes obtaining signal data and control data, formatting the signal data and the control data into a plurality of channels of a DIN signal, and transmitting the DIN signal on one line of a 3-bit TDM bus. A multichannel input device includes a control extractor receptive to the three-bit TDM bus and operative to extract CNTL data from the DIN data, a DAI receptive to the 3-bit TDM bus and the channel select input and operative to develop a SIGNAL data output, and a DAC block including a DAC, the DAC block being receptive to the SIGNAL data and the CNTL data.