Audio Precision announced the availability of version 4.2 of their APx500 audio test software, as well as a new PDM module with advanced capabilities. AP’s latest software release delivers a series of new features focused on electro-acoustic and production test environments, including customizable sub-sequences, input EQ, and a dedicated production test mode. The new software and Advanced PDM Module will be shown at the 139th AES Convention in New York.
Powerful Features for Production Test and Electro-Acoustics
Capabilities being introduced with version 4.2 of APx500 test software are primarily focused on electro-acoustic testing—loudspeakers, headphones and microphones—and production test scenarios. APx’s built-in automation engine, the Sequencer, has been enhanced to support multiple sequences in a single project and sequence looping. The new release also permits the creation of customizable sub-sequences for applications such as ‘golden unit’ testing or microphone calibration.
Users testing loudspeakers and microphones can now apply an equalization curve to an input signal. The input curve can be edited, exported, imported and selectively applied to available input channels.
Addressing the unique needs of manufacturing environments, version 4.2 adds a dedicated production test mode. Now, a test system administrator can create device-specific projects then put the system into password-protected production mode. From that point on, system operators have a simplified interface that allows for project selection, test activation and report generation, but does not permit project modification or parameter changes.
Unparalleled PDM Testing Capabilities
PDM-based (Pulse Density Modulation) components are an integral part of audio devices ranging from class D amplifiers to smartphones and wearable electronics. Building upon the success of their original PDM module, AP’s new unit enables jitter tolerance testing and supports low-voltage logic levels to meet the evolving needs of developers. Specific enhancements include hardware jitter generation (bit clock and data lines), jitter analysis of the input bit clock, support for logic voltage as low as 0.8 V, and greater flexibility in decimation and interpolation ratios.
“Each new software release highlights the power and versatility of AP’s audio test software and APx Series analyzers,” stated Dave Schmoldt, Audio Precision CEO. “With version 4.2, we’re providing a new, diverse set of capabilities for electro-acoustic and production test applications while maintaining a clean, highly-intuitive user-interface—all provided as a complimentary upgrade.”
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