What types of audio inputs and outputs does the STA309A support?

It supports a variety of audio input and output formats, including I2S, TDM (Time-Division Multiplexing), and S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface). This versatility allows it to interface with different audio sources and destinations.

What makes the STA309A suitable for automotive applications?

It is designed with automotive-grade features, making it suitable for automotive audio systems. It includes features like extended temperature range, enhanced electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) performance, and support for automotive-specific audio processing requirements.

Are there evaluation boards or development kits available for the STA309A?

STMicroelectronics typically offers evaluation boards and development kits that include the STA309A, allowing developers to test and prototype their audio systems using this SoC. These kits often come with software and documentation to assist in the development process.

Can the STA309A handle multi-channel audio processing?

Yes, it is capable of handling multi-channel audio processing and mixing. It supports various input and output configurations, making it suitable for applications that require multi-channel audio, such as surround sound systems.

Is the STA309A programmable?

Yes, the STA309A is programmable through external control via an I2C interface or similar communication protocols. This allows users to configure and control its audio processing capabilities according to their specific application requirements.

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STA309A Digital Audio Processor DDX: Datasheet, Pinout and Application

Published: Sep 22, 2023

In the realm of digital audio processing, the STA309A Digital Audio Processor DDX, manufactured by STMicroelectronics, stands as a technological marvel. This highly integrated and versatile audio processor has redefined audio system design, offering unparalleled features and performance. From home entertainment systems to automotive audio, the STA309A is the secret behind rich, immersive sound experiences.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the Datasheet, Pinout, and Application of the STA309A Digital Audio Processor DDX, exploring its capabilities and how it empowers audio enthusiasts and engineers to create audio systems that captivate the senses.

STA309A Description

The STA309A is a multi-channel digital audio processor developed by STMicroelectronics, featuring 8 channels of 24-bit DDX® technology. This audio processor is dedicated to eliminating feedback and reducing noise, ensuring exceptional audio quality. With its powerful built-in DSP, users can perform a wide range of audio signal processing tasks, including equalization, filtering, mixing, and effects processing.

STA309A

Ideal for applications such as automotive infotainment, home theater systems, and soundbars, the STA309A offers outstanding multi-channel support and compatibility with various digital audio formats. Packaged in a TQFP64 format, it is designed for seamless integration into modern audio systems, making it the preferred choice for achieving superior audio performance.

Digital Audio Processor

A digital audio processor, refers to a device or software component designed to manipulate and process audio signals in a digital format. This can include various operations like filtering, equalization, compression, reverb, delay, and many others that modify or enhance the characteristics of audio recordings or live audio streams using digital signal processing techniques. Digital audio processors are commonly used in music production, sound engineering, telecommunications, and consumer electronics to improve and modify audio quality or achieve specific audio effects.

STA309A digital audio processor DDX

STA309A digital audio processor ddx

STA309A Pinout

Pin connection(top view)

Pinout Descriptions

Pin	Type	Name	Description
1	5-V tolerant TTL input buffer	MVO/DSD_CLK	Master volume override/DSD input clock
6	5-V tolerant TTL input buffer	SDI_78/DSD_6	Input serial data channels 7 and 8/DSD input channel 6
7	5-V tolerant TTL input buffer	SDI_56/DSD_5	Input serial data channels 5 and 6/DSD input channel 5
8	5-V tolerant TTL input buffer	SDI_34/DSD_4	Input serial data channels 3 and 4/DSD input channel 4
9	5-V tolerant TTL input buffer	SDI_12/DSD_3	Input serial data channels 1 and 2/DSD input channel 3
10	5-V tolerant TTL input buffer	LRCKI/DSD_2	Input left/right clock/DSD input channel 2
11	5-V tolerant TTL input buffer	BICKI/DSD_1	Input serial clock/DSD input channel 1
15	5-V tolerant TTL schmitt	RESET	Global reset

16	CMOS input buffer with	PLL_BYPASS	Bypass phase-locked loop
17	CMOS input buffer with	SA	Select address (I2C)
18	Bidirectional buffer: 5-V	SDA	Serial data (I2C)
19	5-V tolerant TTL schmitt	SCL	Serial clock (I2C)
20	5-V tolerant TTL schmitt	XTI	Crystal oscillator input (clock input)
21	Analog pad	FILTER_PLL	PLL filter
23	Analog ground	GNDA	PLL ground
24	3.3V analog supply voltage	VDDA	PLL supply
25	3.3-V capable TTL tristate	CKOUT	Clock output
29	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT8B	PWM channel 8 output B
30	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT8A	PWM channel 8 output A
31	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT7B	PWM channel 7 output B
32	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT7A	PWM channel 7 output A
33	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT6B	PWM channel 6 output B
34	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT6A	PWM channel 6 output A
38	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT5B	PWM channel 5 output B
39	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT5A	PWM channel 5 output A
40	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT4B	PWM channel 4 output B
41	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT4A	PWM channel 4 output A
42	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT3B	PWM channel 3 output B
43	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT3A	PWM channel 3 output A
47	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT2B	PWM channel 2 output B
48	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT2A	PWM channel 2 output A
49	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT1B	PWM channel 1 output B
50	3.3-V capable TTL	OUT1A	PWM channel 1 output A
51	3.3-V capable TTL	EAPD	Ext. amp power-down
55	3.3-V capable TTL	BICKO	Output serial clock
56	3.3-V capable TTL	LRCKO	Output left/right clock
57	3.3-V capable TTL	SDO_12	Output serial data channels 1 and 2
58	3.3-V capable TTL	SDO_34	Output serial data channels 3 and 4
62	3.3-V capable TTL	SDO_56	Output serial data channels 5 and 6
63	3.3-V capable TTL	SDO_78	Output serial data channels 7 and 8

64	5-V tolerant TTL Schmitt	PWDN	Device power-down
3,12,28,35,44,52,59	3.3-V digital supply voltage	VDD	3.3-V supply
2,4,13,27,36,45,53,60	Digital ground	GND	Ground
5, 14, 22, 26,37,46,54,61	-	NC	No internal connection

STA309A Specifications and Features

Audio Channels: The STA309A features 8 channels of 24-bit DDX® (direct digital amplification), ensuring high-quality audio processing.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): It provides a signal-to-noise ratio of over 100 dB, offering excellent dynamic range and audio clarity.
Sample Rates: Users can select input sample rates ranging from 32 kHz to 192 kHz, providing flexibility for various audio sources.
DSD/SACD Input: It supports up to 6 channels of DSD/SACD input, enhancing its compatibility with high-resolution audio formats.
Digital Gain and Attenuation: The chip offers digital gain/attenuation control ranging from +58 dB to -100 dB in 0.5-dB steps, along with soft volume updates.
Individual Channel Control: Users can adjust individual channel and master gain/attenuation settings, as well as apply channel trim (-10 dB to +10 dB).
Equalization (EQ): Up to 10 independent 32-bit user-programmable biquads (EQ) per channel, along with bass/treble tone control, enable precise audio customization.
Mixing: The processor allows for both pre and post EQ full 8-channel input mixing on all 8 channels.
Dynamic Range Control: It features dual independent limiters/compressors, dynamic range compression, and various automatic control modes (Automode™).
Additional Features: These include a 5-band graphic EQ, preset EQ curves, automatic volume-controlled loudness, downmixing options, crossover filters, soft/hard mute, zero-detect and invalid input mute, AM interference suppression, I²S output channel mapping, DC blocking, and more.
Output Configuration: Users can select per-channel DDX® damped ternary or binary PWM output, control per-channel DDX® output delay, and benefit from 192 kHz internal processing with 24-bit to 36-bit precision.

STA309A Block Diagram

Block diagram

Channel signal flow

Channel signal flow

STA309A Applications

The STA309A is a versatile multi-channel digital audio processor with a wide range of applications across various industries. Here are some of its key applications:

Automotive Infotainment Systems

It is commonly used in automotive infotainment systems to provide high-quality audio processing, support multiple audio sources, and deliver immersive sound experiences for in-car entertainment.

Home Theater Systems

In home theater setups, it can be employed to process and enhance audio signals, enabling surround sound configurations and delivering cinematic audio quality.

Soundbars and Audio Sound Systems

Soundbars and standalone audio systems benefit from the STA309A's capabilities to improve sound quality, manage audio channels, and support various audio formats.

Professional Audio Equipment

This audio processor is used in professional audio equipment such as mixers, amplifiers, and audio processors to achieve precise control over audio signals and ensure high-fidelity sound reproduction.

Consumer Audio Devices

High-end headphones, portable audio players, and Bluetooth speakers can integrate the STA309A to enhance audio quality, implement advanced audio effects, and offer customizable sound experiences to consumers.

Smart Speaker

Smart speakers and voice assistants utilize the STA309A for voice command processing, audio playback management, and improving sound quality, providing a seamless user experience.

Gaming Consoles and Accessories

Gaming consoles and accessories can incorporate the STA309A to deliver immersive gaming audio, support 3D sound effects, and provide clear voice chat capabilities.

Televisions and Set-Top Boxes

The chip enhances audio performance in TVs and set-top boxes, supporting various audio formats, reducing noise, and optimizing sound quality for a better viewing experience.

Conference and Teleconferencing Systems

Conference room and teleconferencing systems benefit from the STA309A's capabilities for echo cancellation, noise reduction, and clear audio communication in professional settings.

Music Production and Recording

Studios and recording equipment use the STA309A for audio mixing, equalization, and effects processing to achieve professional sound quality during music production and recording sessions.

Wireless Audio Streaming Devices

Devices like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth speakers can leverage the STA309A to enhance audio quality during wireless audio playback, ensuring a superior listening experience.

Custom Audio Processing Applications

Engineers and developers can incorporate the chip into custom audio processing applications, allowing for tailored solutions that meet specific audio processing needs.

STA309A Manufacturer

The STA309A is a digital audio processor manufactured by STMicroelectronics. STMicroelectronics, often referred to as ST, is a multinational semiconductor and electronics manufacturer based in Switzerland and France. They produce a wide range of semiconductor products, including microcontrollers, sensors, power management solutions, and audio processing chips like the STA309A. STMicroelectronics is a well-known and reputable manufacturer in the electronics industry.

STMicroelectronics Product Line:

STMicroelectronics is a renowned provider of semiconductor technologies and solutions, catering to a multitude of industries and applications. Their extensive product line includes:

Microcontrollers and Microprocessors: STMicroelectronics offers a comprehensive range of microcontrollers (MCUs) and microprocessors (MPUs) designed for embedded systems, IoT devices, automotive applications, and more.
Sensors: They provide a variety of sensors, including accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers, environmental sensors, and motion sensors, enabling precise data capture for IoT, automotive, and consumer electronics.
Power Management Solutions: STMicroelectronics specializes in power management ICs, voltage regulators, and energy-efficient components for optimizing power consumption in electronic devices.
Analog and Mixed-Signal ICs: Their analog and mixed-signal integrated circuits include amplifiers, converters, analog switches, and signal conditioning components, supporting a wide range of analog applications.
Wireless Connectivity: ST offers solutions for wireless communication, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC (Near Field Communication) for seamless connectivity in IoT and consumer devices.
Automotive Electronics: With a focus on automotive solutions, ST provides semiconductor products for automotive safety, infotainment, powertrain, and vehicle connectivity.
Digital Audio Processors: Products like the STA309A are part of their digital audio processor line, offering advanced audio processing capabilities for applications such as automotive infotainment and home theater systems.
MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems): STMicroelectronics is a leader in MEMS technology, manufacturing MEMS sensors and actuators for applications like motion tracking, environmental sensing, and automotive safety.
RF (Radio Frequency) Components: They supply RF components, including RF amplifiers, transceivers, and RF power management ICs, essential for wireless communication systems.
Security Solutions: ST develops secure microcontrollers and hardware security modules to safeguard data and devices against cyber threats.

STA309A Datasheet

Free download STA309A Datasheet here>>

STA309A Packages

TQFP64 (10x10x1.4 mm) package outline

Conclusion

In summary, the STA309A Digital Audio Processor DDX from STMicroelectronics represents a pinnacle in digital audio processing technology. Its ability to deliver exceptional sound quality, advanced features, and flexible applications has made it a favorite among audio system designers and enthusiasts.

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FAQ

What types of audio inputs and outputs does the STA309A support?
It supports a variety of audio input and output formats, including I2S, TDM (Time-Division Multiplexing), and S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface). This versatility allows it to interface with different audio sources and destinations.

What makes the STA309A suitable for automotive applications?
It is designed with automotive-grade features, making it suitable for automotive audio systems. It includes features like extended temperature range, enhanced electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) performance, and support for automotive-specific audio processing requirements.

Are there evaluation boards or development kits available for the STA309A?
STMicroelectronics typically offers evaluation boards and development kits that include the STA309A, allowing developers to test and prototype their audio systems using this SoC. These kits often come with software and documentation to assist in the development process.

Can the STA309A handle multi-channel audio processing?
Yes, it is capable of handling multi-channel audio processing and mixing. It supports various input and output configurations, making it suitable for applications that require multi-channel audio, such as surround sound systems.

Is the STA309A programmable?
Yes, the STA309A is programmable through external control via an I2C interface or similar communication protocols. This allows users to configure and control its audio processing capabilities according to their specific application requirements.