13:20 GMT, December 11, 2009 SomerData Ltd has introduced a Development Kit for the SS-ASR Audio Recorder Modules to aid its customers when developing their own Audio Recorders.

The Audio recorder development kit turns an SS-ASR audio Recorder module into a fully functional Audio Recording reference design. It is designed to kick start developments and system integration of the Audio Recorder Modules. The Development Kit is supplied with a 2GB SS-ASR-S1 or 16GB SS-ASR-S3 Recorder Module, Professional Knowles microphone Pre amplifier and standard microphone, Lithium-Polymer Battery Pack and Charger, Control Connection Block and Design Documents.


Professional Knowles microphone Pre amplifier and standard microphone

SomerData Ltd has provided two different varieties of microphone in order for the user to experience and experiment alternative sound qualities. The Knowles microphones have adjustable gain from 40dB to 56dB on each channel Pre-amplifier and components can be replaced for the users own prototyping requirements.

The Knowles microphones used in this kit is one of the smallest high quality microphones available and is highly regarded in the covert audio recording world. It is provided in a stereo/dual mono configuration allowing the user to experiment with noise cancellation, spatial location and ease of deployment.


Lithium Battery Pack and Charger

A voltage regulator on the development kit allows immediate use of the Recorder Module with a lithium polymer battery pack. There is a low voltage cut off to protect the battery from deep discharge issues. The cut off shuts down the module correctly so data is not lost which is a key feature for the applications that the recorder would be used in. The Development Kit’s power supply regulator has a wide voltage input range which extends the range of power supplies the module can work from.

The battery pack is rechargeable by plugging it into the battery charger. It provides up to 6 days of continuous recording.


Control Connection Block

The 3V power source and Ground connections provides a starting point for the users developments such as an external controller or status device.

The status LED access makes it easy for the user to remotely identify what action the Recorder Module is performing.

Remote Switch signal access provides a different method of putting the Recorder Module into ‘recording mode’.


Design Documentation

To insure the user knows a significant amount of detail about the Recorder Module, the following design documents are included: Circuit diagrams, bill of materials, comprehensive description of circuit and component, electrical and physical characteristics of the development kit design, design tools (SPICE simulator and sound editor), test recordings and a sample noise removal project.