Edinburgh, UK, 8 January 2007- Wolfson Microelectronics (LSE:WLF.L) today introduced its first Class D device offered in chip-on-lead (COL) packaging, so small and thin that, compared to the previous generation of parts, it provides a space saving of up to 36% PCB real estate in compact portable devices.

The WM8986 DAC is supplied in a 4x4x0.75 mm COL QFN package that can support a larger die than a standard QFN, or allow a die to be placed in a package with a smaller outline than would be required with a QFN. COL packaging technology is a relatively new development finding success in very small, high-performance portable audio products.

Targeted for audio and video players and portable DAB radios as well as mobile phones, the device features an integrated dual mode headphone driver that can be switched seamlessly to the device user between Class A/B and Class D amplification to save power. A digital core characterised at 1.8V with PLL provides additional power savings.

The WM8986 supports up to two differential microphone and analogue stereo line inputs, enabling direct mixing from an FM radio, and has two pairs of headphone drivers enabling two users on one audio player. An integrated PLL supports input clock between 9 to 27MHz.
The WM8986 includes a built-in audio enhanced DSP for 5 band EQ and 3D stereo.

Availability
The WM8986 is available for sampling in a 28-pin COL QFN package.

About Wolfson Microelectronics 

Wolfson Microelectronics plc is a leading global provider of high performance, mixed-signal semiconductors for digital consumer electronics applications.

Renowned worldwide for its audio and imaging technologies, Wolfson devices can be found at the heart of many of the world’s highest profile consumer products, including mobile phones, MP3 players, gaming consoles, DVD players, DVD-RW, LCD-TV and multi-function peripherals. If a digital product can capture an image or play a sound, Wolfson’s vision is to supply a product that will allow it to perform these tasks better.

Headquartered in Edinburgh, UK, Wolfson has sales and engineering offices in the USA, Japan, China, Taiwan, Korea and Singapore. Wolfson Microelectronics plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: WLF.L).

For more information about Wolfson Microelectronics, please visit www.wolfsonmicro.com or sign up for Wolfson eNews at http://www.wolfsonmicro.com/enews/.