30 Jan 2012

CML Micro analogue front-end promises better system performance

CML Microcircuits has released the CMX7861 'FirmCODEC', an analogue front end for DSP, FPGA and microcontroller based systems.

According to CML Micro, the device allows simple interfacing between analogue and digital systems, thanks to its combination of codec, embedded signal processing and auxiliary system support functions. It promises to improve system performance as well as reduce development time and cost.

As more and more communications, control and monitoring systems migrate to digital operations, analogue to digital and digital to analogue interfaces are becoming a crucial part of overall system design. CML Micro is confident FirmCODEC provides an answer.

The product can be used in radio systems performing the main data conversion and auxiliary operations for monitoring and control, operating in channel bandwidths up to 50kHz and interfacing RF devices to baseband DSP/FPGA/microcontroller.

Single-ended and differential interface options are provided and I/Q-based operation is supported.

Fully-programmable on-chip independent dual channel, digital channel filters can be used for signal conditioning purposes while a four-channel SAR ADC, 4 independent DACs and GPIO sub-systems perform valuable functions and minimise host interaction and resources.

Two synthesised system clock generators develop clock signals for off-chip use. The C-BUS/SPI master interface expands host C-BUS/SPI ports to control external devices.

Two general modes of operation are supported: codec mode and modem mode.

Codec mode is intended for applications where a general purpose codec is require while modem mode is suited to applications where the CMX7861 is used to transmit and receive modulated data.

The CMX7861 utilises CML's proprietary FirmASIC component technology that enables on-chip sub-systems to be configured by a Function Image data file, which is uploaded during device initialisation and defines the device's function and feature set.

The Function Image can be loaded automatically from a host microcontroller over the C-BUS serial interface or from an external memory device. The device's functions and features can be enhanced by subsequent Function Image releases, facilitating in-the-field upgrades.

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