A2B products

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.

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.
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 cables		A2B cables with standard DuraClik connectors	0.3m, 1m, and 4m standard lengths