Trio of plug-ins enhance measurement software

Automatic Gain Control (AGC) is a signal processing technique typically used to limit the audio dynamic range in applications ranging from hearing aids to broadcasting.

AP’s latest plugin enables the characterisation of attack-and-release (recovery) times for AGC-enabled devices and allows the user to perform the tests according to several different standards, from IEC 60268-8 for general purpose AGC devices to IEC 60118-2 and ANSI S3.22 for hearing aids. Test settings can also be customised when using the IEC 60268-8-based measurement. Performing fractional octave analysis of broadband signals incorporating speech and noise can be an important element in the design and verification of a wide range of audio and communications systems.

AP’s new plugin integrates octave analysis capabilities into APx measurement software, replacing the FFT-to-Octave Conversion utility for APx version 4.3 users.

The A/V sync plugin integrates audio delay measurement into APx software to support designers evaluating audio/video timing (lip sync) in professional and consumer systems.

The plugin is also designed to support the A/V synchronisation tests that are part of both Dolby and DTS licensee compliance requirements.

“The addition of a plugin framework to APx measurement software allows the addition of application-specific measurements and analysis features independent of a full software release,” said Spyros Lazaris, Audio Precision Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “These latest plugins, along with the STI plugin introduced last October, are clear examples of the versatility of APx measurement software.”  The plugins are compatible with any model APx500 Series analyser and require APx audio measurement software, version 4.3 or later.

All three plugins are available as a courtesy download to registered users of AP.com.