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How to Use Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back): Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

Image of Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back)
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Introduction

The Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back), manufactured by FREENOVE, with part ID ES7148/PAM8403, is a versatile device designed to convert audio signals from one format to another while amplifying the signal. This component is ideal for applications requiring enhanced sound quality and volume, such as driving speakers or headphones. It combines the functionality of an audio signal converter and a low-power audio amplifier, making it a compact and efficient solution for audio projects.

Explore Projects Built with Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back)

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Bluetooth-Controlled Arduino Speaker with Integrated Microphone
Image of sp circuit: A project utilizing Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back) in a practical application
This circuit is a Bluetooth-enabled audio system with a microphone input. It uses a 5V Bluetooth Audio Receiver to receive audio signals wirelessly, which are then amplified by a PAM8403 amplifier before being output to a loudspeaker. Additionally, a condenser microphone is connected to the amplifier, allowing for audio input, and an Arduino UNO is present for potential control or further expansion, although it currently has no active code for operation.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
ESP32-Based Voice-Controlled Speaker
Image of Main Design: A project utilizing Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back) in a practical application
This circuit is a digital voice playback and recording system powered by a 3.7V battery. It features an ESP32 microcontroller for processing, an Adafruit MAX98357A amplifier to drive a loudspeaker for audio output, and an Adafruit MAX9814 microphone amplifier for audio input. A pushbutton provides user interaction, and a 3.3V regulator ensures stable power supply to the components.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Teensy 4.0 Audio Controller with Adjustable Volume and Power Management
Image of proj2: A project utilizing Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back) in a practical application
This circuit features a Teensy 4.0 microcontroller interfaced with an audio shield for audio processing, controlled by a potentiometer for volume adjustment. It is powered by an Adafruit PowerBoost 1000C with a toggle switch for power control, and includes a 12-pin FFC converter for additional connectivity options.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
ESP32-Powered Smart Audio System with Data Logging
Image of Para Smart Speaker 1 Pro: A project utilizing Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back) in a practical application
This circuit is a sophisticated audio playback and recording system with timekeeping functionality. It features an ESP32 S3 microcontroller for digital signal processing, connected to a DAC, an I2S microphone, an RTC, and a Micro SD card module. The audio output is handled by a 2.1 channel amplifier driving stereo speakers and a subwoofer, with power supplied by a series of 3.7V batteries and regulated by a DC step-down converter.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Explore Projects Built with Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back)

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Image of sp circuit: A project utilizing Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back) in a practical application
Bluetooth-Controlled Arduino Speaker with Integrated Microphone
This circuit is a Bluetooth-enabled audio system with a microphone input. It uses a 5V Bluetooth Audio Receiver to receive audio signals wirelessly, which are then amplified by a PAM8403 amplifier before being output to a loudspeaker. Additionally, a condenser microphone is connected to the amplifier, allowing for audio input, and an Arduino UNO is present for potential control or further expansion, although it currently has no active code for operation.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of Main Design: A project utilizing Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back) in a practical application
ESP32-Based Voice-Controlled Speaker
This circuit is a digital voice playback and recording system powered by a 3.7V battery. It features an ESP32 microcontroller for processing, an Adafruit MAX98357A amplifier to drive a loudspeaker for audio output, and an Adafruit MAX9814 microphone amplifier for audio input. A pushbutton provides user interaction, and a 3.3V regulator ensures stable power supply to the components.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of proj2: A project utilizing Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back) in a practical application
Teensy 4.0 Audio Controller with Adjustable Volume and Power Management
This circuit features a Teensy 4.0 microcontroller interfaced with an audio shield for audio processing, controlled by a potentiometer for volume adjustment. It is powered by an Adafruit PowerBoost 1000C with a toggle switch for power control, and includes a 12-pin FFC converter for additional connectivity options.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of Para Smart Speaker 1 Pro: A project utilizing Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back) in a practical application
ESP32-Powered Smart Audio System with Data Logging
This circuit is a sophisticated audio playback and recording system with timekeeping functionality. It features an ESP32 S3 microcontroller for digital signal processing, connected to a DAC, an I2S microphone, an RTC, and a Micro SD card module. The audio output is handled by a 2.1 channel amplifier driving stereo speakers and a subwoofer, with power supplied by a series of 3.7V batteries and regulated by a DC step-down converter.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Common Applications and Use Cases

  • Portable speaker systems
  • DIY audio projects
  • Audio signal processing and conversion
  • Headphone amplifiers
  • Integration with microcontrollers like Arduino for audio playback

Technical Specifications

Key Technical Details

Parameter Value
Manufacturer FREENOVE
Part ID ES7148/PAM8403
Operating Voltage 2.5V to 5.5V
Output Power 3W per channel (stereo) at 4Ω, 5V supply
Signal-to-Noise Ratio ≥ 90 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion ≤ 0.1%
Input Signal Format I2S (Inter-IC Sound)
Output Signal Format Analog audio
Amplifier Type Class D
Efficiency Up to 90%
Operating Temperature -40°C to +85°C

Pin Configuration and Descriptions

The Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back) has the following pin configuration:

Pin Name Pin Number Description
VCC 1 Power supply input (2.5V to 5.5V)
GND 2 Ground connection
LRCK 3 Left/Right clock input for I2S signal
BCK 4 Bit clock input for I2S signal
DIN 5 Data input for I2S signal
LOUT+ 6 Positive output for left audio channel
LOUT- 7 Negative output for left audio channel
ROUT+ 8 Positive output for right audio channel
ROUT- 9 Negative output for right audio channel
EN 10 Enable pin (active high) to power the device

Usage Instructions

How to Use the Component in a Circuit

  1. Power Supply: Connect the VCC pin to a stable power source (2.5V to 5.5V) and the GND pin to ground.
  2. Audio Input: Provide an I2S audio signal to the LRCK, BCK, and DIN pins. Ensure the signal format matches the component's specifications.
  3. Audio Output: Connect the LOUT+, LOUT-, ROUT+, and ROUT- pins to the respective terminals of your speakers or headphones.
  4. Enable the Device: Pull the EN pin high to activate the component. Pulling it low will disable the device.
  5. Volume Control: Adjust the input signal amplitude to control the output volume.

Important Considerations and Best Practices

  • Use decoupling capacitors (e.g., 0.1 µF and 10 µF) near the VCC pin to stabilize the power supply.
  • Ensure proper grounding to minimize noise and interference.
  • Avoid exceeding the maximum voltage and current ratings to prevent damage.
  • Use speakers with an impedance of 4Ω or higher for optimal performance.
  • Keep the I2S signal traces short to reduce signal degradation.

Example: Connecting to an Arduino UNO

The Audio Converter & Amplifier (Back) can be connected to an Arduino UNO to play audio. Below is an example code snippet:

#include <Arduino.h>

// Define I2S pins for the Audio Converter & Amplifier
#define LRCK_PIN 3  // Left/Right clock pin
#define BCK_PIN  4  // Bit clock pin
#define DIN_PIN  5  // Data input pin
#define EN_PIN   6  // Enable pin

void setup() {
  // Set up the I2S pins
  pinMode(LRCK_PIN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(BCK_PIN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(DIN_PIN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(EN_PIN, OUTPUT);

  // Enable the Audio Converter & Amplifier
  digitalWrite(EN_PIN, HIGH);

  // Initialize serial communication for debugging
  Serial.begin(9600);
  Serial.println("Audio Converter & Amplifier Initialized");
}

void loop() {
  // Example: Generate a simple square wave on the DIN pin
  digitalWrite(DIN_PIN, HIGH);
  delayMicroseconds(500); // Adjust for desired frequency
  digitalWrite(DIN_PIN, LOW);
  delayMicroseconds(500);
}

Notes:

  • Replace the square wave generation with actual I2S audio data for real applications.
  • Use an external I2S audio library if needed for complex audio playback.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions

  1. No Audio Output:

    • Ensure the EN pin is pulled high to enable the device.
    • Verify the I2S signal connections and format.
    • Check the power supply voltage and ensure it is within the specified range.
  2. Distorted Audio:

    • Reduce the input signal amplitude to avoid clipping.
    • Verify the speaker impedance (should be 4Ω or higher).
    • Check for noise or interference in the power supply.
  3. Overheating:

    • Ensure proper ventilation around the component.
    • Avoid exceeding the maximum output power rating.
  4. Low Volume:

    • Increase the input signal amplitude.
    • Verify the power supply voltage (higher voltages within the range provide more power).

FAQs

Q1: Can this component drive headphones directly?
A1: Yes, the component can drive headphones with an impedance of 32Ω or higher.

Q2: Is it compatible with 3.3V microcontrollers?
A2: Yes, the component operates within a voltage range of 2.5V to 5.5V, making it compatible with 3.3V systems.

Q3: Can I use this with a mono speaker?
A3: Yes, you can connect only one channel (left or right) to a mono speaker.

Q4: What is the maximum cable length for I2S signals?
A4: Keep the I2S signal traces or cables as short as possible (preferably under 10 cm) to minimize signal degradation.

Q5: Does it support other audio input formats?
A5: No, this component only supports I2S as the input format.