2024¶

The World's First! Edge AI and Smart Audio Expert XMOS Partners with Phaten to Lead a New Trend in Smart Audio

In today's wave of technological advancement, the smart audio field has achieved an exciting breakthrough! Edge AI and smart audio expert XMOS has reached a deep cooperation with Phaten, marking the successful establishment of XMOS's first global value-added distributor (VAR) in China. Together, they are embarking on a new chapter in smart audio.

1. Background and Significance of the Cooperation

In this collaboration, XMOS has astutely authorized Phaten as its first global value-added distributor. Phaten will leverage its extensive experience in wireless audio and IoT to deeply integrate with XMOS's powerful xcore chip platform, dedicated to creating a new generation of audio products for global customers. This groundbreaking partnership not only represents a strategic expansion of XMOS's smart audio technology globally but also brings an unparalleled audio experience to manufacturers and consumers worldwide.

2. XMOS: Innovator in the Smart Audio Chip Field

As a leading developer of software-defined system-on-chip (SoC) solutions in the global smart audio chip sector, XMOS remains at the forefront of technology, driving industry development with its exceptional innovation capabilities. Its xcore series processors are considered a brilliant gem in chip technology, boasting astonishing processing power that can easily handle a variety of complex audio tasks.

The hardware interface flexibility of this processor further enhances its appeal, providing disruptive economics and significantly shortened time-to-market for SoCs. Embedded software engineers can focus solely on software development and load it onto XMOS's uniquely designed, flexible, and user-friendly hardware platform, enabling them to create highly customized SoC solutions with unprecedented speed and convenience. With precise timing determinism and extensive application flexibility, the xcore chip demonstrates outstanding performance across numerous audio application scenarios, becoming the core driving force in the smart audio field.

3. Phaten: Practitioner of Wireless Audio and IoT

Founded in 2016 in the innovative city of Shenzhen, Phaten Technology Co., Ltd. has consistently focused on the research, production, sales, and service of RF modules related to wireless audio, wireless internet, and IoT. It is undoubtedly a leader in the industry.

The company boasts robust capabilities, with up to 11 SMT assembly lines and 40 automated testing lines, ensuring high-quality production and rapid delivery of its products. Phaten is committed to developing and providing a range of cutting-edge technology solutions, including advanced XMOS audio solutions, high-performance wireless audio modules, convenient wireless network Wi-Fi access modules, widely applicable IoT modules, and customized module application solutions for commercial and industrial scenarios. Its rich product line and outstanding technical strength have established a good reputation in the wireless audio and IoT fields, earning the trust of numerous customers.

4. Achievements and Applications of the Cooperation

The collaboration has yielded remarkable results, with several innovative technologies developed together, covering cutting-edge areas such as AI dynamic noise reduction, DSP audio effects, Hi-Fi Audio Bridge, and spatial audio.

(1) AI Dynamic Noise Reduction Technology (DNR)

This technology acts like a magical audio wizard, widely applicable to USB microphones, headphones, sound cards, and other devices. It can intelligently identify and effectively eliminate various types of noise in the environment, allowing users to enjoy pure and clear sound whether in a noisy street or a bustling office, as if they were in a tranquil private space.

(2) DSP Audio Effects (Reverb, EQ Equalization, etc.)

For applications such as live streaming sound cards, live microphones, and digital broadcasting, DSP audio effects are undoubtedly powerful assistants in enhancing audio quality. With precise reverb effects and detailed EQ adjustments, users can easily create professional-grade audio effects tailored to their preferences and scene requirements, adding richness to activities like live streaming and music appreciation.

(3) Hi-Fi Audio Bridge Technology (USB Audio Bridging, ASRC, SPDIF to I2S, etc.)

This technology plays a crucial role in high-quality audio decoders, amplifiers, and other devices. It enables lossless transmission and conversion of audio signals, presenting users with a high-fidelity audio feast where every note flows authentically, satisfying audiophiles' ultimate pursuit of sound quality.

(4) Spatial Audio Technology (Virtual 7.1, 7.1.4, Stereo Sound Field Optimization, etc.)

In gaming headsets, gaming decoders, USB dongles, and other devices, spatial audio technology shines. It simulates realistic stereo sound fields, creating an immersive audio environment for gamers, allowing them to capture sound details in the game more keenly, thus gaining an edge in intense gaming competition.

For more details, please visit: www.phaten-audio.com These advanced technologies will be transformed into a series of customizable audio system products through Phaten's comprehensive manufacturing and supply system. They will be deeply applied in various consumer and professional application scenarios through the extensive channels of brand manufacturers and service providers. For example, custom low-latency, high-quality headphone products tailored for brand computers, gaming consoles, digital consumer device manufacturers, and internet café operators will provide gamers and music lovers with an immersive audio experience; advanced remote communication and interaction devices carefully crafted for telecom operators, system integrators, and other service providers will greatly enhance the quality and efficiency of remote meetings and communications.

5. Outlook from Both Parties' Leaders

Tao Miao, the market and sales head for the Asia-Pacific region at XMOS, expressed confidence that the value-added channel agreement with Phaten is a significant milestone in XMOS's journey in smart audio. By partnering with a professional entity like Phaten, which focuses on audio technology research and manufacturing, XMOS can rapidly promote the application of high-quality smart audio technology, benefiting downstream manufacturers and end consumers from these innovative achievements. In the Chinese market, Tao looks forward to Phaten, as an excellent partner, fully leveraging XMOS's advanced technology to achieve even greater accomplishments. Meanwhile, XMOS will actively explore more effective and flexible business models to drive the industrialization of audio technology innovation, keenly capture market opportunities, and closely collaborate with customers to jointly carry out joint research and development, collaborative promotion, and comprehensive support activities, working together to create a bright future.

SuYongbiao, Vice President of R&D at Phaten, also expressed great expectations for the cooperation, emphasizing that XMOS's xcore chip platform has outstanding performance and is well-known in the industry. This collaboration not only signifies XMOS's high recognition of Phaten's technical strength and manufacturing capabilities but also vividly reflects Phaten's continuous pursuit of excellence and willingness to innovate. SuYongbiao is confident that through close cooperation, greater value and opportunities will be created for customers and partners. In the face of the burgeoning emerging market, Phaten will leverage its superb innovative technology team and agile VAR services, working hand in hand with XMOS to provide more comprehensive and higher-quality audio solutions and customized services for the global market, jointly writing a brilliant chapter in the smart audio field.

In the future, XMOS and Phaten will continue to deepen their cooperation, constantly exploring the infinite possibilities of smart audio technology, expanding broader application scenarios, and bringing users a smarter and higher-quality audio experience, leading the smart audio industry to new heights.

Microphone Array Technology: Basic Concepts and Exploration

Microphone array technology, like a hidden artisan behind the scenes, quietly yet profoundly infiltrates every corner of our lives. Whether in communication systems for daily conversation, professional audio recording, or precise sound source localization tasks, microphone arrays shine like a brilliant star, emitting unmatched brilliance and showcasing extraordinary advantages. In the following chapters, we will delve deep into the mysterious basic concepts, intricate working principles, diverse types and classifications of microphone arrays, and boldly explore their innovative applications across various fields and the boundless possibilities for future development.

Comprehensive Analysis of USB Audio: Core Technologies and Diverse Applications

The Foundation of USB: The Cornerstone of Connection and Data Transmission

In the surging tide of technological advancements, USB, the Universal Serial Bus, shines like a brilliant star, high above the vast sky of personal computing for over a decade. Its extensive connectivity is like an invisible web, easily linking microphones, speakers, external drives, network cameras, and various other peripheral devices.

This article focuses on USB audio—this digital audio standard that sparkles in the realms of personal computers, smartphones, and tablets. It acts as a bridge, seamlessly connecting speakers, microphones, and mixers, opening a new chapter in audio transmission.

Let’s first explore the foundation of USB. USB operates according to a specific protocol, much like a meticulously organized symphony, where the host computer plays the role of the conductor, issuing transmission commands to devices like USB speakers. Each transmission is directed precisely at a specific device and endpoint, like an arrow hitting its target. There are several types of data transmission: Bulk Transfer, Isochronous Transfer, Interrupt Transfer, and Control Transfer.

Bulk Transfer

Bulk Transfer is akin to a reliable messenger, focused on securely transmitting data between the host and device. All USB transmissions are safeguarded by CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check), much like a loyal sentinel, constantly ensuring the integrity of data. In Bulk Transfer, the receiver must check the CRC, and if it is correct, the transmission is confirmed, indicating no errors. If the CRC is incorrect, the transmission is not confirmed and will be retried. If the device is not ready to receive data, it can send a NAK (Negative Acknowledgment), prompting the host to retry. Bulk Transfer is not subject to strict timing requirements, acting like a flexible dancer navigating around stricter timing transmission modes.

Isochronous Transfer

Isochronous Transfer is like a punctual trailblazer, used for real-time data transmission between the host and device. When the host sets an isochronous endpoint, it allocates specific bandwidth and periodically performs input or output transmissions. For example, the host may output 1K bytes of data to the device every 125 milliseconds. However, due to the fixed and limited bandwidth, if a transmission issue arises, there is no time for retransmission. While the data has a valid CRC, the receiver will not request a retransmission in case of error.

Interrupt Transfer

Despite its name, Interrupt Transfer is like a diligent patrol officer, where the host periodically polls devices to check for events of interest. For instance, the host may poll an audio device to confirm whether the MUTE button has been pressed. Though it is named "Interrupt," it functions like a periodic polling mechanism rather than a traditional interrupt.

Control Transfer

Control Transfer is similar to Bulk Transfer but is non-real-time, designed for operations outside of normal data flows, such as querying device features or endpoint statuses. It is the backstage coordinator for tasks like adjusting device settings. These pre-defined classes, such as "USB Audio Class" or "USB Mass Storage Class," assist in achieving cross-platform interoperability. All transfers are performed in USB frames, with a high-speed USB frame interval of 125μs (1ms for full-speed USB), marked by the host sending a Start of Frame (SOF) message. Isochronous and Interrupt transfers transmit only once per frame.

USB Audio: The Intricate Arrangement of Data Transmission

Next, let's dive into the charm of USB Audio. USB Audio uses Isochronous, Interrupt, and Control Transfers to transmit audio data. Isochronous Transfer serves as the high-speed channel for audio data transmission; Interrupt Transfer acts as the guardian of the audio clock, monitoring the availability of the audio clock; Control Transfer serves as the audio settings controller, adjusting parameters like volume and sample rate.

The data requirements vary depending on the number of channels, sample bit depth, and sample rate. Common channel counts include 2 (stereo), 6 (5.1), and even more for studio and DJ setups. Typical sample bit depths are 24 bits, with 16 bits commonly used for standard audio, and 32 bits for high-quality audio. Common sample rates include 44.1, 48, 96, and 192 kHz, with the latter often used for high-quality audio production.

For example, let's design a stereo speaker with a sample rate of 96 kHz and a sample size of 24 bits. To simplify data transmission between the host and the device, the 24-bit value is often padded with zero bytes, resulting in a total data throughput of 96,000 x 2 channels x 4 bytes = 768,000 bytes per second. The Isochronous endpoint operates at a speed of one transmission every 125μs, which means 8000 transmissions per second. Dividing the required bytes per second by the transmission frequency gives the bytes per transmission: 768,000 / 8,000 = 96 bytes per transmission.

Clock Synchronization: The Key to Time Coordination

USB clock synchronization is also a critical aspect. In the world of digital audio, it’s like navigating a time labyrinth, where a common time concept must be agreed upon. As mentioned earlier, USB frames are transmitted 8000 times per second, while the speaker plays 96,000 samples per second. Harmony can only be achieved when both the host and the speaker agree on the length of one second.

USB Audio provides three modes to ensure that the host and speaker stay in sync over time. In Synchronous Mode, the host defines the length of a second, sending data at a fixed rate, with the device matching that rate. In Asynchronous Mode, the device defines the second's length, with the host adjusting accordingly. In Adaptive Mode, the data flow determines the clock’s direction.

However, both Adaptive and Synchronous Modes are not flawless, as personal computers are not always stable in maintaining clock synchronization, and external audio sources, such as digital soundcards, can interfere. Asynchronous Mode uses an external clock source or a low-jitter clock inside the device as the master clock. Typically, both modes rely on a crystal-based Phase-Locked Loop (PLL). Thus, the system requires at least two independent clocks: one for driving the USB transfer frequency (8,000 times per second) and another for driving the sample rate (e.g., 96,000Hz).

These clock frequencies differ slightly and may change subtly over time. For example, at a 96,000Hz sample rate, the average number of samples could be 12.001. To ensure that the host sends the right amount of data, the host queries the current sample rate through an Interrupt Transfer. Every few milliseconds, the average sample rate from the previous stage is reported as a fixed-point value. If the final cycle’s average is 12.001 frames, the reported value is 0x000C0041 (65536 * 12.001).

With this average rate, the host can calculate when to send additional samples during transmission. For instance, eight transmissions per second will carry one extra sample. The host can use this value to synchronize with the audio device, ensuring that the video and audio remain in sync. Without this synchronization, the audio will eventually get ahead of the video, and after two hours, the sound will be a second ahead of the image.

To maintain a short feedback loop, it is crucial to avoid unnecessary buffering of audio data packets and feedback packets. Any additional buffering causes delays, making smooth flow difficult. This means the lower-level USB protocol stack and USB audio protocol stack must tightly integrate, without unnecessary buffering. While this is challenging on application processors, it is relatively easy on embedded processors with predictable execution times.

In summary, maintaining consistent time concepts is crucial in the world of digital audio. The three modes of USB Audio—Synchronous, Asynchronous, and Adaptive—each offer unique approaches to synchronize the host and peripheral devices, with Asynchronous Mode being more reliable due to external clock sources.

Complex Devices: The Precise Choice of Multiple Clocks

In complex devices like mixers, there may be multiple devices providing sample rates via different interfaces. USB Audio allows designers to deploy clock selectors to choose the clock source for the sample rate from multiple input clocks, such as an S/PDIF-connected clock, a local oscillator, or an ADAT-connected clock. Users can select the clock source through Control Transfers.

Compliance Support: The Smooth Bridge of System Integration

In terms of compliance and native support, devices that comply with the USB Audio Class 2.0 standard can seamlessly interface with operating systems, allowing users to control parameters like volume and sample rate through standard operating system dialogs.

The Outstanding Contribution of USB Audio

In conclusion, leveraging the powerful USB 2.0's high-speed capabilities, USB Audio Class 2.0 successfully bridges the gap between PCs and audio devices, ensuring low-latency transmission, high throughput, and exceptional audio quality. Its broad applicability ranges from complex mixers to surround sound systems, PC speakers, microphones, and many more, continuously infusing the audio field with vitality and possibilities.

USB Sound Card Full Analysis: A Powerful Tool to Enhance Audio Experience

In today's digital age, the pursuit of better audio quality has become increasingly diversified. Whether you are an enthusiast passionate about listening to high-quality music, a professional working meticulously in the field of audio, or a gamer seeking an immersive sound experience, everyone is looking for ways to elevate their audio experience. The USB sound card, a multifunctional external sound card that connects via the USB interface, acts as a key that unlocks superior audio performance, aiming to optimize the audio quality and performance of computers while cleverly expanding the limited audio interfaces originally found on the system. Whether you are dissatisfied with your computer's built-in audio system, pursuing professional-grade audio effects, or in need of more audio interfaces to meet complex needs, the USB sound card is undoubtedly an excellent solution.

So, what exactly is a USB sound card?

A USB sound card is an external sound card that connects to a computer via the USB port, providing a powerful boost to its audio capabilities. Unlike traditional sound cards that are built into the motherboard, a USB sound card is located externally, offering numerous advantages such as superior sound quality and the ability to avoid interference from electronic noise.

The benefits of using a USB sound card are many, ranging from significant improvements in audio quality to an expansion of functionality. Let’s begin with sound quality. Built-in sound cards often have limitations in their audio processing capabilities, while USB sound cards typically feature more advanced digital-to-analog conversion, resulting in clearer, more precise, and richer sound.

Moreover, computers often produce electromagnetic interference that can degrade audio quality. However, as an external device, the USB sound card is less susceptible to such interference, ensuring that the audio signal remains pure and free from noise.

Additionally, many USB sound cards come with multiple input and output options, making them ideal for connecting to professional audio equipment and greatly expanding the boundaries of audio applications. Their small, portable nature is another highlight, offering convenience for users who frequently move between different environments.

Even if a computer's built-in sound card fails or is absent, the USB sound card can still provide stable, high-quality audio functionality with excellent compatibility.

How does a USB sound card improve audio quality?

One of the key selling points of any USB sound card is its remarkable ability to enhance audio quality. These devices often feature advanced audio processing functions, which outperform most built-in sound cards.

In terms of reducing interference, built-in sound cards are often plagued by electronic noise generated by other computer components. In contrast, USB sound cards, by being external, minimize this interference and maintain the purity and clarity of the audio signal.

Expanding Audio Functions with Convenience

When it comes to expanding audio functions, many USB sound card models stand out due to their rich variety of input and output options. This makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, from simple home audio setups to more complex, professional-grade audio systems.

The portability and ease of use of USB sound cards are also major attractions. With their compact size and straightforward setup process, they are highly portable and convenient. Whether you're moving between different studios or setting up audio devices in various locations, a USB sound card is easy to carry and use.

USB sound cards also offer great compatibility with a variety of devices. Whether it’s a laptop, desktop, or even some gaming consoles, USB sound cards can seamlessly integrate and operate smoothly across different platforms.

Various Styles of USB Sound Cards

Not all USB sound cards are created equal. To meet diverse needs, their designs come in various types: basic models are perfect for users who simply want to improve their audio experience, professional models are equipped with advanced high-end features for studio work, and gaming models are designed specifically for gamers, aiming to deliver an immersive audio experience.

How to Choose a USB Sound Card

When selecting a USB sound card, it is important to consider several factors, such as your specific audio needs, budget, and compatibility with your existing equipment.

Setting up a USB sound card is generally straightforward: 1. Plug the device into an available USB port on your computer; 2. Install any necessary drivers or software; 3. Configure the audio settings via the operating system’s control panel.

Common Issues When Using USB Sound Cards

Here are a few common issues you might encounter when using a USB sound card: 1. No sound: Ensure that the device is properly connected and that the necessary drivers have been installed. 2. Poor sound quality: Check for loose connections and avoid any software conflicts. 3. Compatibility issues: Make sure your operating system supports the sound card model.

When comparing USB sound cards with built-in sound cards, there are several notable differences. In terms of sound quality, external sound cards generally offer superior audio processing. For portability, built-in sound cards are fixed inside the device, while USB sound cards are mobile. Installation is also easier with USB sound cards as they simply plug in, whereas internal sound cards require opening the computer case for installation.

Among many USB sound card brands, several have established themselves as leading manufacturers of high-quality external sound cards, such as Focusrite, Creative Labs, and Behringer. Focusrite, in particular, has earned widespread acclaim for its superb audio quality and stable performance, making it a top choice for music production and recording professionals. Its Scarlett 2i2 model is particularly popular, offering excellent value for money and reliable audio performance.

For professionals in the audio industry, high-end USB sound cards can make a significant impact with their clear and accurate sound input and output options.

Gamers can also benefit greatly from using USB sound cards. The enhanced audio effects and immersive experience they provide are far superior to the standard built-in sound cards. For game streamers, selecting a dedicated sound card and high-quality microphone often leads to better broadcast quality, and the USB sound card provides the solid foundation for this.

Looking ahead, the future of USB sound card technology is bright. With continuous advancements in digital signal processing and increasing high-resolution audio capabilities, USB sound card performance will only improve, pushing music production and recording quality to new heights and further enhancing the audio experience in gaming, entertainment, and multimedia applications.

Frequently Asked Questions about USB Sound Cards:

What is a USB sound card? A USB sound card is an external sound card that connects via the USB port to enhance a computer’s audio capabilities.

How does a USB sound card improve sound quality? It offers superior digital-to-analog conversion compared to most built-in sound cards, providing clearer and more precise audio.

Can I use a USB sound card on a gaming console? Yes, many modern gaming consoles support external sound cards via USB connections.

What should I consider when buying a USB sound card? Consider factors like compatibility, the number of input/output ports, audio quality, and the intended use (e.g., gaming, professional audio work, etc.).

Is installing a USB sound card difficult? It is not difficult. Simply plug the sound card into an available USB port and install the necessary drivers or software.

Do I need technical knowledge to use a USB sound card? While some basic technical knowledge may help, most modern USB sound cards are designed to be user-friendly and easy to set up.

In conclusion, a USB sound card is an invaluable tool for anyone looking to upgrade their computer's audio capabilities. Whether you're a music lover, gamer, or professional, investing in a high-quality external sound card can significantly enhance your overall audio experience, adding a vibrant new dimension to your audio world.

ESP - AT Firmware: The Magic Elf Behind Smart Homes

In today's rapidly advancing technological world, smart homes are like spring flowers, blooming vibrantly in every corner of household life, significantly enhancing the quality of life while adding endless convenience and fun. Within this fascinating world of smart homes, the ESP - AT firmware acts as a hidden magic elf, quietly performing its magical powers to transform ordinary home life into a captivating blend of intelligence and charm. Today, let's step into this smart home and explore how it uses its unique charm to bring "intelligent transformation" to everyday life.

ESP-AT Firmware Technical Architecture: Laying the Foundation for Smart Connectivity

In the previous article, we were introduced to the ESP-AT firmware, which serves as a key to unlock the doors of convenient development in the Internet of Things (IoT). By using simple “AT commands,” developers can avoid complex challenges and move forward smoothly in their IoT development journey. Today, we will take a deeper dive into its technical architecture and explore the intricate designs inside. These designs are crucial for laying the intelligent interaction foundation of IoT devices and supporting the vast framework of interconnected things.

ESP-AT Firmware: The IoT Smart "Engine"

Today, the tide of technology is sweeping across the globe like the Qiantang River, and the Internet of Things (IoT) has become an invisible web, deeply embedded in every corner of our lives and work, reshaping the everyday.

Differences Between ESP-AT Firmware and Traditional Firmware

In today's era of rapid development in the Internet of Things, ESP-AT firmware stands out with its unique advantages in various scenarios of smart device connectivity and data interaction. As a leader in the professional field, Feiteng Cloud focuses on the production and OEM of ESP-AT firmware modules, offering high-quality choices to a wide range of customers with its outstanding comprehensive strength.

Comparison of Audio Decoder Chips and the Advantages of Phaten's Multi-Channel Audio Decoder

In the field of audio decoders, different chips offer unique features, providing a diverse range of choices for various audio devices. This article compares the CS43198 DAC decoder chip, the XU316 chip, and the ShanJing chip, highlighting the unique advantages of Phaten's audio decoder based on the XU316 chip.

Why Pursue Multichannel Audio and an Ultimate Experience?

In the audio field, multichannel audio systems are gradually becoming the go-to choice for those seeking an exceptional sound experience. From the stunning scenes in movies to the delicate emotions in music, multichannel audio systems offer incomparable advantages, opening a door to a whole new auditory world.