The MIPI SDCA specification aims to optimize the integration of audio devices with open host platforms.

The MIPI Alliance releases the MIPI SoundWire Device Class for Audio (MIPI SDCA) v1.0 specification, which standardizes mechanisms for interacting with host-controlled audio devices, such as microphones and amplifiers, via the MIPI SoundWire interface.

The specification leverages the MIPI Discovery and Configuration specifications for SoundWire, optimizing the integration of audio devices with host platforms through a simplified audio software architecture and driver requirements, the organization said in a press release.

As MIPI said in a statement, the use of the MIPI SDCA protocol across both host and peripheral audio devices enables the development and use of system firmware and generic device class drivers, allowing software to be reused across multiple audio devices from multiple vendors.

MIPI SoundWire Device Class for Audio v1.0. Image Source: MIPI Alliance

“SDCA defines a standard SoundWire device class, allowing system designers to develop generic class drivers for audio devices that conform to this class. This greatly simplifies and streamlines platform development,” said Sanjiv Desai, chairman of the MIPI Alliance.

“By standardizing core audio device functions, control and detection mechanisms, enabling native operating system support, and eliminating the need for custom drivers and software, SDCA enables cost-effective integration of audio components from multiple vendors to differentiate host platform capabilities for different customer use cases and requirements.”

The SDCA project involved representatives from all areas of the audio ecosystem, including operating system vendors, SoC vendors, IP-protected hardware and software vendors, and hardware vendors.

The members of the MIPI Software Working Group who contributed to the specification include: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.; Analog Devices, Inc.; Cirrus Logic; Dell Technologies; Everest Semiconductor Co., Ltd.; Intel Corporation; Microsoft Corporation; onsemi; Qualcomm Incorporated; Realtek Semiconductor Corp.; Texas Instruments Incorporated, and others.