Microchip Technology Inc has announced expansion of its wireless product portfolio with a certified Bluetooth Audio Module that supports audio for voice and music. The RN52 module provides extremely low-power consumption in a small, surface-mount form-factor, and includes standard Bluetooth audio and data profiles for all smartphone platforms. These features make it easy for designers to add quality wireless audio, combined with data capabilities, in a broad range of applications, such as wireless stereo speakers, headphones, automotive hands-free, medical devices and computer accessories.
The advantages of wireless, along with the rapidly-expanding smartphone and tablet markets, are driving the demand for Bluetooth wireless audio accessories. Microchip's RN52 module, which is based on technology acquired from Roving Networks, has the Bluetooth stack on board. The RN52's embedded Bluetooth stack includes the popular SPP, A2DP, HFP/HSP and AVRCP profiles, along with the iAP for use with iPhone and iPod. Additionally, the RN52 supports a variety of audio codecs, such as SBC, aptX, AAC
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and MP3.
"The superior streaming-audio capability of the RN52 greatly expands Microchip's Bluetooth portfolio. We have incorporated all the major codecs and profiles, enabling customers to easily create Bluetooth wireless audio accessories with minimal design effort and fast time to market," said Steve Caldwell, Director of Microchip's Wireless Products Division.
The RN52 Bluetooth Audio Module (part # RN-52-I/RM) is expected to be available in March, in a compact, surface-mount form-factor in 1,000-unit quantities.
