This section summarizes the PC 98 system requirements for audio.
1. PC system includes PC 98 audio capabilities
Consumer PC 98
Office PC 98
Entertainment PC 98
Recommended
Recommended
Required
Although audio is a standard feature in most PC market segments, it is understood that certain SOHO and Office PC designs that focus heavily on cost will not require audio. For PCs that include audio, the requirements defined in this chapter must be met.
2. Audio device does not connect to ISA bus
Consumer PC 98
Office PC 98
Entertainment PC 98
Required
Required
Required
In 1998, the transition away from ISA will be underway. Some of the reasons that ISA is not acceptable include the high overhead of transferring audio samples, the excessive requirements of resources such as IRQs, DMA, and I/O, plus limited power management capabilities.
There will be a delayed phase-in period for this requirement, during which only system-board ISA devices will be allowed. Please notice that the ISA requirements that apply during the transition phase are the same as those defined in PC 97 Hardware Design Guide, and are also summarized in the “Legacy Support” appendix in the References part of this guide.