A new reference design from Cirrus Logic, Intel and Microsoft aims to enable “cool, quiet and high-performance” PCs with improved audio quality and efficiency.

The reference design features Cirrus Logic’s CS35L56 smart amplifier and CS42L43 SmartHIFI codec, which are optimized for the MIPI SoundWire® interface (1.2.1 specification), a new audio standard that simplifies the integration of audio devices and reduces power consumption.

The MIPI SoundWire interface is expected to become the dominant audio specification for PCs in the near future, as it offers a scalable and flexible architecture that can support multiple audio devices and functions.

However, the transition to the new interface may pose some challenges for PC manufacturers, who need to ensure compatibility and performance across different platforms and operating systems.

To help ease the migration process, Cirrus Logic, Intel and Microsoft have collaborated to provide a SoundWire-ready reference design that includes a smart amplifier and codec that are designed to work within Microsoft’s ACX framework and with a SoundWire Device Class Audio (SDCA) manager. The reference design also leverages Intel’s Smart Sound Technology, which enables low-power audio processing and voice control.

The Cirrus Logic audio solution is said to offer several benefits for PC users, such as enhanced sound quality, longer battery life, reduced heat generation, and protection against speaker damage. The solution also supports advanced audio features, such as noise cancellation, voice enhancement, and spatial audio.

“Cirrus Logic is proud to work with industry leaders, such as Intel and Microsoft, on the MIPI SoundWire integration design-in so that our customers come away with a more streamlined and differentiated audio solution that can scale throughout their product offerings,” said Carl Alberty, vice president of Cirrus Logic’s Mixed-Signal Products group.

The reference design is expected to be available for PC OEMs in the second half of 2024.