PC Audio Transitions

Throughout 1997 and 1998, audio in the PC will offer a wide array of possibilities as a number of transitions take place. Perhaps the most significant transition is the continuing shift from where hardware exclusively processes audio to where the host processor shares some if not all of the burden. To provide the flexibility and performance that is required, a new architecture is needed to connect audio hardware and software. WDM will serve as the support mechanism for the next generation of PC audio.

As the PC is increasingly called upon to play the part of a consumer-electronics device (for example, video-disc playback), sound quality becomes more important. A number of initiatives are underway to achieve optimal sound quality. Another implication of this trend is the need for simpler operation and hardware configuration.

The state of audio functionality is far from stagnant, presenting a challenge for the industry to maximize performance and simplicity, and to add more advanced features. This chapter will focus on how and when this can be done.

The shift to higher quality and support for external digital connectivity will not happen overnight. One objective of PC 98 Audio is to facilitate the transition over the next few years. The remainder of this section is a summary of the projected evolution of PC audio.

The following figure demonstrates that by mid-1998, four viable audio solutions will exist in the PC marketplace. The figure also projects the estimated market share for each solution over the next three years.

Digital Audio Migration

The following explains the marketplace options illustrated in the previous figure:

The following factors will determine which of the previously listed audio solutions are suitable in 1998: