Intel completes hi-def audio spec
Print storyGrantsdale can go ahead now
Posted in Channel, 16th April 2004 11:09 GMT
Free research: Application platforms, the state of play
Intel has released the final version of its High Definition Audio 1.0 specification, the successor to the AC 97 PC audio standard.
Formerly codenamed 'Azalia', HD Audio was officially given its new name Intel's Spring Developer Conference last February.
HD Audio takes the PC's sound support beyond CD quality to 32-bit quantisation and a 192kHz sample rate. It also brings in 7.1 multi-channel support, and scope to reassign sound ports' roles - input or output - on the fly.
Intel will add HD Audio support to its 'Grantsdale' Pentium 4 desktop chipset, due later this quarter, and to 'Alviso', next autumn's 'Centrino 2' chipset. Both use Intel's ICH6 South Bridge part, which incorporates HD Audio.
Microsoft will provide HD Audio drivers courtesy of its Universal Audio Architecture (UAA) initiative, which unifies on-board sound systems with USB and 1394/Firewire audio sub-systems. UAA is also intended to bring a similar level of sound quality across devices, from PCs to PDAs and Wintel-based consumer electronics kit. ®
Related stories
'Centrino 2' to launch next Autumn
Intel moots Centrino-style home PC platform
Intel i855GME to pave way for Centrino 2 next year
Win a Samsung C6625!
Is your cameraphone an oxymoron?
Reg Mobile and Wireless newsletter is go! go! go!
Sign up, sign up for The Register IT security newsletter