Tech Primer
Car audio system is a very important part of a vehicle and enables people to enjoy a variety of audio contents as if they were home. Car system was developed from simple audio system with only radio and cassette tape, to multi-functional audio system which integrates many kinds of audio sources such as radio, CD, and MP3. Some audio systems even support Bluetooth.
Car audio system includes audio source module, audio decoding and processing module, power amplifier, speakers, controllers, HMI (Human Machine Interface), etc. The audio sources of automotive audio system refer to radio, CD/DVD player, MP3. These audio sources need to be processed by the audio decoding and processing module, and then amplified by power amplifier before they can be heard by people from the speakers. The controller is responsible for implementing coordination and control over other modules. HMI is used to provide information such as the music being played, remaining time, and radio channel. Users can manipulate the audio system through HMI.
At present, the well-known semiconductor companies in the world such as ST, ADI, Infineon, Freescale, NXP, and Renesas can provide the solutions for automotive audio system. Other semiconductor manufacturers such as Maxim and TI also can provide some devices used in car audio systems.
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