Edinburgh, UK, 14th May 2007 - Wolfson Microelectronics plc (LSE:WLF.L) has set a new standard in S/PDIF performance, with the release of audio transceivers that offer world class jitter rejection. The new WM8804 and WM8805 devices successfully address the challenges of high quality, cost-effective S/PDIF audio data transfer in LCD televisions, hi-fi, PC motherboards and many other audio systems.

The transceivers are structured around an integrated high performance PLL with an intrinsic period jitter of 50ps and jitter rejection frequency of 100Hz. Unlike many other transceivers of this type, the WM8804 and WM8805 contribute a negligible level of jitter to the audio system. Traditionally, S/PDIF transceivers can only suppress jitter above 10kHz and have no effect on the low and medium frequencies, which have the greatest impact on audio quality. Crucially, the WM8804 and WM8805 are capable of suppressing these pre-existing timing issues on the signal at frequencies above 100Hz, removing any unwanted audio distortion or problems in this critical audio range.

As an interconnection standard, users and designers have no control over the quality of the S/PDIF inputs into their systems from third parties. The Wolfson PLL technology enables the WM8804 and WM8805 receivers to lock onto and recover the data and timing from poor quality input signals, thereby allowing the transceivers to accept S/PDIF signals from any source, even if the input signal is severely degraded.

A further benefit of the high performance PLL is the reduction in component count for the overall system. The PLL can be used to synthesise crystal derived clock signals and, without the requirement for any external filter, can operate as a high quality master timing source for the audio system.

The WM8804 and WM8805 are fully compliant to the IEC60958-3 standard for S/PDIF, including a unique “with flags” mode. Status and error information can be extracted using a variety of methods.

The WM8804 has one input and one output for use in LCD TVs, DVD recorders, musical instruments and other personal electronics requiring high performance digital audio. The WM8805, with eight inputs and one output, is specifically designed for use in systems where digital audio channel switching is necessary, such as AV and DVD receivers and professional and home recording systems.

The new devices augment Wolfson’s existing portfolio of high-performance S/PDIF-capable audio CODECs, such as the WM8580, WM8581 and WM8777.

Availability
The WM8804 and WM8805 are available for sampling now in low pin count packages
(20-pin SSOP for the WM8804 and 28-pin SSOP for the WM8805).

About S/PDIF
The S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format) is a digital audio transfer system used in many electronic entertainment systems worldwide.

About Wolfson Microelectronics
Wolfson Microelectronics plc is a leading global provider of high performance, mixed-signal semiconductors to the consumer electronics market.

Renowned worldwide for its high performance audio and ultra low power consumption, Wolfson devices are at the heart of many of the world’s highest profile consumer electronics products, including mobile phones, mp3 players, flat panel TVs and in-car infotainment systems. Wolfson technology enables exciting new end-user experiences by connecting the digital world to the human senses.

Headquartered in Edinburgh, UK, Wolfson has sales and engineering offices in the USA, Japan, China, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore and India.

Wolfson Microelectronics plc is listed on the London (LSE: WLF.L) stock exchange.

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

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