Analogue speaker driver cancels noise effortlessly

The device’s typical power consumption in normal operation is just 10mW with a 1.5V supply. In addition, the speaker driver offers an internal bypass mode with zero power consumption, disabling the noise-cancellation function while maintaining the audio output to the speakers.

In the Z100 in-ear headset, an accessory supplied with the Z1 smartphone launched by ZUK on 11 August 2015, the AS3415 helps to produce a high-fidelity audio output undisturbed by ambient noise. This provides a more pleasing and comfortable listening experience, whether the user is enjoying music, video or other content, or taking part in a voice call.

The Android-based Z1 is ZUK’s flagship product, and the Z100 headset is expected to enhance the phone’s consumer appeal because of its combination of audio quality, sleek design and technology: it is the first ANC headset in the world to feature the new USB Type-C connector rather than the traditional 3.5mm audio jack.

Since power is supplied to the noise-cancellation circuit from the phone’s battery via this USB connection, there is no need for a separate battery in the headset itself, enabling ZUK to realise an extremely small and light design that is comfortable for the user to wear.

In addition, the Z100 has a configurable noise-cancellation feature, giving the user a choice of noise-cancellation profiles selectable on the phone’s touchscreen. This enables the user to adjust the bandwidth and amplitude of the noise attenuation provided by the AS3415 depending on the way they are using the phone and the environment in which they are using it.

‘The Z100 headset offers an attractive and must-have accessory for ZUK Z1 smartphone users as it combines sleek design with near-zero background noise, thanks to ams’ AS3415’s active noise-cancelation technology. We are delighted to have partnered with ams on the Z100 development - the company offers comprehensive support, outstanding ANC performance along with unparalleled expertise in mechanical and filter design,’ said Mr Icer Liu, Director of the Accessory Business of ZUK.

‘The AS34x5 is a fully integrated, analog ANC solution for headsets, headphones and ear pieces. Thanks to its ultra-low power consumption, cost-saving bill of materials and superior audio quality, the ams ANC portfolio provides a benchmark for integrated solutions targeting the ANC market,’ said Oliver Jones, Director, Audio Sensors, ams.

The AS3415 is available immediately in production volumes. An evaluation kit for the AS3415 ANC speaker driver is available online from ams.