Multi-Channel Isochronous Streaming FireWire Audio Controller
Oxford Semiconductor, Inc.
Overview
The Oxford Semiconductor OXFW971 is a highly-integrated audio
®
streaming controller for FireWire isochronous applications. The
OXFW971 builds on the achievements of the OXFW970, but offers a
range of additional features:
Up to 16 I/O channels with multiple configuration options,
including:
Simultaneous 8 input & 8 output (up to 96 kHz sample
rate)
S/PDIF input & S/PDIF output (up to 96 kHz sample rate)
MIDI input & MIDI output
High peripheral integration, resulting in lower operational
production costs
Improved processor performance, to support an equalization
function for certain applications
The OXFW971 provides a bidirectional FireWire S400/S800 link between
®
a PC or Mac and a range of audio interfaces. The combination of eight
audio channels (both input & output) with support for both
S/PDIF and musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) make the
™
OXFW971 a highly-integrated solution for GarageBand I/O boxes,
®
external sound card and speaker applications. With an ARM7TDMI
embedded processor, 1 Mbits of flash memory and a range of peripherals
integrated on-chip, the device provides a low-cost solution for a variety
of applications.
Device
The OXFW971 has a sophisticated clocking scheme, which allows it to be
used in a variety of system configurations. It supports an external word
clock input and can generate a low-jitter audio master clock (128, 192,
256, 384 or 512 fs) for external DACs, with optional clock smoothing.
Functionality
The high-speed UART allows applications with a second microcontroller
to be controlled through the FireWire link. This facility allows users to
interface with their preferred microprocessors, utilizing a transparent
channel over a 1394 link. Such a feature can be useful where it is
necessary to re-use existing firmware or support more specific customer
applications. Other devices, such as DACs, can be controlled by the low-
speed serial interfaces, which are compatible with two-wire serial and
SPI interfaces.
2
External—Free Release
DS-0017 Nov 06