1. Product Overview
The WM8960CGEFL/RV is a stereo audio CODEC from Cirrus Logic, featuring an integrated headphone amplifier, 1W/channel Class D speaker drivers, an on-chip PLL, a three-input audio multiplexer (MUX), and multiple programmable audio processing modules. Supporting I²C control and I²S/PCM digital audio interfaces, this device is well-suited for portable multimedia systems, voice recognition terminals, and embedded HMI platforms.
Packaged in a compact 5 mm × 5 mm QFN-32, the WM8960 operates with a digital supply voltage of 1.71 V–3.6 V and an analog/speaker supply of 2.7 V–5.5 V, and supports a wide operating temperature range of –40°C to +85°C, meeting industrial-grade reliability standards.
2. Key Features Overview
Category | Description |
Audio Interface | Supports I²S, left-justified, right-justified, and DSP modes; master/slave selectable |
ADC/DAC | 2-channel, 24-bit resolution; supports sampling rates from 8 kHz to 48 kHz |
Speaker Output | Integrated 2 × 1W Class D drivers, optimized for 8 Ω load |
Headphone Driver | Supports AC or capless output; includes soft start and overload protection |
Analog Inputs | Supports microphone, line-in, and auxiliary inputs with multi-stage PGA gain (–17.25 dB to +30 dB) |
Digital Audio Processing | EQ, 3D surround, Automatic Level Control (ALC), and digital limiter |
Clock System | Integrated PLL; supports external MCLK or BCLK-derived self-clocking |
Power Control | On-chip power management, standby mode, and independent module enable control |
Package | QFN-32; MSL-3 moisture sensitivity; RoHS compliant |
3. Audio Path & Architectural Advantages
The WM8960 offers flexible signal routing for audio input and output. The input path supports multiplexed Line-in, Mic, and Aux sources, each enhanced by integrated analog PGAs. The output path enables direct DAC-to-headphone/speaker routing and supports optional audio effects modules.
- ADC SNR: 92 dB (A-weighted, 48 kHz, AVDD = 3.3 V)
- DAC SNR: 98 dB (A-weighted, 48 kHz, AVDD = 3.3 V)
- Speaker Efficiency: Up to 87%, typical output 1 W/channel (8 Ω, 5 V)
- Headphone THD+N: Better than –75 dB, supports 20 mW capless mode output
4. Integration Advantages & Application Value
(1) Highly Integrated Solution
Combining headphone and speaker amplification, CODEC functionality, mixer, digital audio processing, PLL, and mic bias in a single IC reduces BOM cost and simplifies PCB design.
(2) Flexible Audio Processing Capabilities
Features five-band programmable digital EQ, 3D audio enhancement, ALC, limiter, and noise gate, making it suitable for scenarios such as voice recording, communications, and audio notifications.
(3) Optimized for Low Power Systems
With per-module power-down control, fast sleep transitions, and low-voltage startup, WM8960 is ideal for battery-powered portable devices, enhancing system power efficiency.
5. Typical Application Scenarios
- Portable Embedded Devices: Handheld game consoles, smart meters, HMI terminals
- Voice-Control Platforms: Supports microphone front-end input and dynamic gain control
- Smart Playback Devices: Integrated Class D speaker amp and digital effects for alerts
- Industrial and Automotive Voice Prompts: Operates reliably in wide temperature ranges for alarm and control feedback applications
6. Design Tips & Development Guidelines
- Power Management: Separate routing for analog, speaker, and digital power domains is recommended, along with appropriate decoupling capacitor design
- Speaker Output: LC filter output topology recommended for impedance matching with 8 Ω loads
- Audio Interface Configuration: All functions (volume, EQ, path routing, clock settings) can be accessed via the I²C register map
- Clock Selection: Supports external MCLK or self-clocking via BCLK
- Power-Up Behavior:All modules are off by default; functionality must be enabled via software
7. WM8960 Packaging Variants Comparison
Model | DAC/ADC Channels | Amplifier Type | Interface | Audio Processing Features | Packaging | Application Focus |
WM8960CGEFL/RV | 2-ch / 24-bit | 2 × 1W Class D (8 Ω) | I²C + I²S/PCM | EQ, 3D surround, ALC, limiter, noise gate | Tray | General design / prototyping |
2-ch / 24-bit | 2 × 1W Class D (8 Ω) | I²C + I²S/PCM | EQ, 3D surround, ALC, limiter, noise gate | Tape & Reel | SMT mass production | |
2-ch / 24-bit | 2 × 1W Class D (8 Ω) | I²C + I²S/PCM | EQ, 3D surround, ALC, limiter, noise gate | Tray | Fully compatible second source |
The WM8960CGEFL/RV, part of the WM896x series, stands out as a highly integrated and widely applicable stereo audio CODEC. Its built-in headphone amplifier, speaker driver, digital effects engine, and multi-format audio interface make it a robust and cost-effective solution for embedded audio modules. With a careful balance between low-power design, audio fidelity, and software flexibility, it is an excellent choice for applications involving voice I/O, system audio prompts, and compact audio system designs.
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