Evaluation Boards - Audio Amplifiers

Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity
AS3415 EK-ST ams	AS3415 EVALUATION KIT	0
AS3561 EVAL BOARD ams	AS3561 EVAL BOARD	5
AS3412 EK-ST ams	AS3412 EVALUATION KIT	0
AS1702_DK_ST ams	BOARD DEMO AS1702-05	0
AS1702V_DK_ST ams	BOARD DEMO AS1702V-05V	0
AS1701 DB ams	BOARD DEMO AS1701	0
AS1706 DB ams	BOARD DEMO AS1706	0

Evaluation Boards - Audio Amplifiers

1. Overview

Evaluation boards for audio amplifiers are specialized hardware platforms designed to test, validate, and develop audio amplifier circuits. These boards provide engineers with a controlled environment to measure performance metrics such as output power, efficiency, and signal fidelity. They play a critical role in modern audio system design by accelerating prototyping, reducing development risks, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Applications span consumer electronics, automotive audio systems, and professional sound equipment.

2. Major Types and Functional Classification

Type	Functional Features	Application Examples
Stereo Amplifier Boards	Dual-channel output, low THD+N, adjustable gain	Home theater systems, portable speakers
D-Class Amplifier Boards	High efficiency (>90%), PWM modulation, thermal protection	Car audio systems, battery-powered devices
Headphone Amplifier Boards	Low noise floor, impedance matching, volume control	Smartphones, studio headphones
Digital Audio Amplifier Boards	Integrated DSP, I2S interface, EQ customization	Smart speakers, IoT audio devices

3. Structure and Components

Typical evaluation boards consist of: - PCB Substrate: Multi-layer FR4 material with impedance-controlled traces - Amplifier IC: Mounted in standard packages (e.g., TSSOP, QFN) - Power Management: DC/DC converters and LDOs for voltage regulation - Connectors: RCA, XLR, or 3.5mm jacks for input/output - Test Points: Probes for measuring voltage, current, and signal integrity - Microcontroller Interface: I2C/SPI ports for configuration and debugging

4. Key Technical Specifications

Parameter	Description	Importance
Output Power (W)	Continuous RMS power delivery	Determines speaker compatibility
Efficiency (%)	Power conversion ratio	Impacts thermal design and battery life
THD+N (%)	Total harmonic distortion + noise	Measures audio fidelity
Frequency Response (Hz)	Operational bandwidth (20Hz-20kHz typical)	Defines audible range coverage
PSRR (dB)	Power supply rejection ratio	Indicates noise immunity

5. Application Areas

Consumer Electronics: Smart speakers, soundbars, gaming headsets
Automotive: Infotainment systems, active noise cancellation
Professional Audio: Mixing consoles, stage monitors
Industrial: Public address systems, emergency communication equipment

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

Manufacturer	Key Product	Features
Texas Instruments	PCM5122EVM	DAC + headphone amplifier, 120dB SNR
STMicroelectronics	STEVAL-CCA026V1	Digital input, 2x15W stereo output
Analog Devices	AD2428W-EVALZ	Automotive-grade, 4-channel amplifier
Maxim Integrated	MAX98357AEVKIT	Class D, 15W mono with H-bridge output

7. Selection Guidelines

Match amplifier class (A, AB, D) to application requirements
Verify voltage/current ratings against power supply constraints
Check interface compatibility (analog/digital inputs)
Evaluate thermal management features
Consider software ecosystem for programmable devices

8. Industry Trends

Future developments include: - Integration of AI for dynamic EQ optimization - GaN transistors enabling higher switching frequencies - Wireless evaluation capabilities (Bluetooth 5.3, LE Audio) - Enhanced diagnostics for predictive maintenance - Miniaturization through 3D packaging technologies