Texas Instruments' PCM186x family of audio front-end devices takes a new approach to audio-function integration to ease compliance with European Ecodesign legislation while enabling high-performance end products. With no need for a 5 V supply or an external programmable-gain amplifier, smaller, smarter products are feasible at reduced cost.

The PCM186x's highly flexible audio front end supports input levels from small-mV microphone inputs to 2.1 V_RMS line Inputs without external resistor dividers. The PCM186x family integrates many system-level functions that assist or replace some DSP functions. All these features are available using a single 3.3 V power supply. An integrated bandgap voltage reference provides excellent PSRR, so that a dedicated analog 3.3 V rail may not be required.