Automotive audio power amp has I2C diagnostic capability

Toshiba’s TB2932 is a class AB power amplifier that offers a 40% reduction in output noise voltage and a 75% reduction in total harmonic distortion (THD) compared to the previous generation of devices. These features, plus a slew rate that has been improved threefold, lead to significant improvements in overall sound quality. Pop sound characteristics have also been improved.



Toshiba has been able to achieve the amplifier’s improved characteristics by employing a single- rather than a dual-stage amplifier circuit design. This improves reliability, reduces output noise and offset voltage, and increases both slew rate and cut off frequency. At the same time, use of the latest low on resistance BiCDMOS (BiCD) process leads to a reduction in die size and the lowering of standby current to less than 1µA.



The diagnostic capabilities of the new amplifier cover turn-on and permanent faults in power amplifier and line driver modes and include output short detection and offset detection. Integration of an I2C interface also allows amplifier audio controls such as standby, mute and voltage gain to be operated via the bus.



The TB2932 offers 43W per channel and built-in protection features include thermal shutdown and overvoltage protection. Supplied in a standard HZIP25 package, the device is pin-compatible with many third party devices.