Zarlink Semiconductor has expanded its family of voice processing solutions with a new device enabling voice in hands-free communication systems, including speakerphones, home automation applications and car kits. Available now, the ZL38005 voice processing platform integrates dual channel narrowband codecs, on-chip memory, multiple interfaces and advanced voice processing firmware. Supported by a range of design tools, the voice processor improves voice quality, minimises background noise and reduces system complexity and cost.

The ZL38005 device delivers high-quality voice processing performance and is a solution for mainstream hands-free communication systems. The previously introduced ZL38004 platform is an enhanced voice processor integrating advanced firmware and functionality for high-end hands-free communication systems. Zarlink also offers the lightly featured ZL38002 digital echo canceller for basic hands-free communication.

Design Tools

Zarlink’s design tools include a complete evaluation board, and a mini-evaluation board that fits directly into a speakerphone plastic enclosure to provide performance testing. Zarlink’s diagnostic tool kit supports “plug and test” capabilities to measure echo profile, frequency response and distortion. Zarlink also offers a bluetooth evaluation kit for advanced hands-free car kits.

Platform

The ZL38005 hardware platform and integrated ZLS38501 firmware ensure hands-free voice quality in severe noise conditions. For example, conference phones must cope with background noise, sound reverberation due to poor plastic enclosure design and acoustic coupling between the microphone and speaker. Car kit designers must provide solutions that support high-quality voice despite severe noise conditions caused by engine, tire and wind noise. The ZL38005 platform includes narrowband codecs with input/output sampling of 8 KHz, and integrated acoustic and line echo cancellers with programmable echo tail up to 256 ms and noise reduction up to 20 dB. The device delivers exceptional performance is double-talk situations. The ZL38005 voice processing platform is available now in a 14x14 mm, 100-pin lead-free QFP package.