82801AB datasheet(28/414 Pages) INTEL

28 / 414 page

Introduction

1-8

82801AA and 82801AB Datasheet

AC’97 2.1 Controller

The digital link in the ICH is AC’97 Revision 2.1 compliant, supporting two codecs with

independent PCI functions for audio and modem. Microphone input and left and right audio

channels are supported for a high-quality two-speaker audio solution. Wake on ring from suspend

is also supported with an appropriate modem codec.

The Audio Codec ‘97 (AC’97) Specification defines a digital link that can be used to attach an

audio codec (AC), a modem codec (MC), an audio/modem codec (AMC), or both an AC and an

MC. The AC’97 Specification defines the interface between the system logic and the audio or

modem codec known as the AC’97 Digital Link.

The ability to add cost-effective audio and modem solutions as the platform migrates away from

ISA is important. In addition, the AC’97 audio and modem components are software configurable.

This reduces configuration errors. The ICH’s AC’97 (with the appropriate codecs) not only

replaces ISA audio and modem functionality, but also improves overall platform integration by

incorporating the AC’97 digital link. Using the ICH’s integrated AC’97 digital link reduces cost

and eases migration from ISA.

By using an audio codec, the AC’97 digital link allows for cost-effective, high-quality, integrated

audio using the ICH. In addition, an AC’97 soft modem can be implemented with the use of a

modem codec. Several system options exist when implementing AC’97. The ICH’s integrated

digital link allows two external codecs to be connected to the ICH. The system designer can

provide audio with an audio codec, or a modem with a modem codec. For system requiring both

audio an a modem, there are two solutions. The audio codec and the modem codec can be

integrated into an AMC or separate audio and modem codecs can be connected to the ICH.

Modem implementation for different countries must be considered as telephone systems may vary.

By using a split design, the audio codec can be on-board and the modem codec can be placed on a

riser. Intel is developing an AC’97 digital link connector. With a single integrated codec (or AMC),

both audio and modem can be routed to a connector near the rear panel where the external ports can

be located.

82801AB Datasheet(PDF) 28 Page - Intel Corporation