Analog Devices’ A2B® bus (originally called the Automotive Audio Bus, it’s now available for all applications, including non-audio use) provides up to 32 channels of bidirectional digital audio over low cost unshielded twisted pair. It is configured as a daisy chain with one root (master) node and up to 10 slave nodes. A system may have up to 15m cable between nodes and a total cable length of 40m. In basic terms A2B acts as an I2S to I2S bridge between nodes in a system; it can also support I2C and GPIO features on client (slave) nodes.
Clockworks’ A2B hardware is intended to allow developers and OEMs to quickly prototype their systems to allow software development to start.
For example Clockworks’ AD2428W based A2B modules acts like a break-out board for A2B , making the data and control signal readily accessible on standard .1″ (2.54mm) headers. These modules can be wired to other EVM hardware or dropped in to a early prototypes without the need to worry about correctly designing and laying out the A2B portion. They are also convenient for building up test systems and small volume production.
Not sure where to start? Check out the A2B configuration guide
Clockworks maintains a page on Analog Devices PartnerZone site where you can find further technical information as well as ask general questions about A2B and using Clockworks’ products.
For development an A2B root (master) and at least one client (slave) boards are needed. Clockworks offers several options for a root (master) node for standalone use or for use with your own host.
For hardware with a built in processor, ADI’s SHARC Audio Module is one possibility. For general purpose DSP or for an easier to manage set up the EVAL-AD2428WD1BZ (based on the ADAU1452 Sigma DSP) is suggested. The ADI software tools are available for free directly from Analog Devices. An ADI USBi (or equivalent) will also be needed.
A2B is a trademark of Analog Devices Inc.
| Part Number | Function | Description | |
|---|---|---|---|
| AB0001 |  | A2B AD2428 based Module (Root or client) | Drop-in A2B interface solution. Two 12 pin .1" connectors make it easy to interface A2B with other development hardware. |
| AB0331 |  | A2B AD2437 based Module (Root or client) | Drop-in A2B interface solution. Two 2.54mm ( .1") connectors make it easy to interface A2B with other development hardware. |
| AB0020 |  | EVM for A2B AD2428 or AD2437 modules (A2B root and client node versions) | The fastest way to create a large multinode system for evaluation and development. The EVM offers stereo audio input and output for A2B systems. A2B master mode version also available. Can also be used for SigmaDSP ADAU1761 development. |
| AB0003 |  | OEM version A2B AD2428 module for use with custom A2B connectors | Replaces the DuraClik connector with two four pin headers to support direct A2B integration in to systems. |
| AB0371 |  | OEM version A2B AD2437 module for use with custom A2B connectors | Replaces the DuraClik connector with a four pin and 8 pin headers to support direct A2B integration in to systems. |
| AB0106 |  | I/O expander for A2B module for client (slave) nodes | Simple buffered I2S, I2C, and GPIO expansion for A2B01 and A2B03 modules. |
| AB0108 |  | I/O expander for A2B module for root (master) nodes | Provide root (master) node with simple buffered I2S, I2C, and GPIO expansion for A2B01 and A2B03 modules. Requires external SYNC and BCLK. |
| AB0110 | | I/O expander for A2B module for root (master) nodes | Provide root (master) node with simple buffered I2S, I2C, and GPIO expansion for A2B01 and A2B03 modules. Local SYNC and BCLK generation. |
| AB0109 |  | Quad A2B module carrier | Provides a fast and simple way to emulate high node count systems. Provides access to all AD2428 signals for attaching I2S or I2C devices. |
| EVMA2B05 |  | 4 channel phantom powered A2B microphone Y array | Microphone array for audio application developers. Save time with fast turn customized microphone arrangements for your specific project needs. |
| AB0204 |  | 4 channel phantom powered A2B microphone linear array | Small form factor single board microphone array for audio application developers. Save time with fast turn customized microphone arrangements for your specific project needs. |
| A2B converters |  | Five different module options for converting between A2B CFG4 and CFG0 power and connectors | 2 wire, XLR, and RJ45 options. All offer galvanic isolation |
| A2B cables |  | A2B cables with standard DuraClik connectors | 0.3m, 1m, and 4m standard lengths |