Poing – 25th August 2008

Avnet Memec, the highly specialised semiconductor distributor of Avnet Electronics Marketing EMEA, is now offering the new MAX9744 from Maxim Integrated Products. This industry's first 20W stereo Class D speaker amplifier operates from a 4.5V to 14V power supply. The wide supply range minimizes the cost of portable designs by reducing component count and allowing the use of a smaller battery pack. The MAX9744 provides ample output power throughout the power-supply voltage range, making it ideal for Portable Audio Systems, MP3 docking stations, gaming consoles, and flat-panel televisions.

Additionally, the MAX9744 integrates 64-step analog and digital volume control. To ramp up or down the volume digitally, the system microcontroller can program a 6-bit register through the MAX9744's I2C bus interface.

Class D amplifiers are known for high power efficiency, and the MAX9744 does not disappoint with its 93% efficiency while delivering 20W into an 8ohm load. Achieving high 75dB PSRR, low 0.04% THD+N, and greater than 90dB SNR, this stereo amplifier offers Class AB performance with Class D efficiency.

The MAX9744 includes a low-power shutdown mode, a mute function, and integrated click-and-pop suppression. Available in a 7mm x 7mm x 0.8mm, 44-pin TQFN package, the device is fully specified over the -40 degrees Celsius to +85°C extended temperature range. An evaluation kit which is also available at Avnet Memec speeds design implementation.

Avnet Memec, an independent business unit of Avnet Electronics Marketing EMEA, is a highly specialised semiconductor distributor, operating on a pan-European basis and employing a significant number of engineers to support customers’ design efforts. Avnet Memec specialises in highly innovative suppliers and technologies, which will help a variety of customers to differentiate their designs. Its area of specialisation extends from Analog and Microcontrollers to RF, Datacom and Networking. The business unit operates out of 30 offices in 17 European countries and represents major semiconductor franchises on a pan-European basis.