ZDNet Definition for: AC'97

(Audio Codec'97) A specification for building audio and modem functions on a PC motherboard. Introduced in 1996 by Intel, AC'97 provides 20-bit, 48 kHz audio with six channels (5.1). It supports one audio stream per system and a two element array microphone.

Controller and Codec
AC'97 is made up of a controller connected to analog/digital codecs by a 5-wire TDM interface called "AC Link." The two subsystems separate the digital controller, which is built into the PC chipset, from the analog circuits, which can be in a chip on the motherboard, a riser card or cabled close to the I/O connectors.

For international certification (homologation), modem codecs are often placed on riser cards, which can be easily interchanged. See HD Audio and riser card.

Reproduced with permission from Computer Desktop Encyclopedia. Copyright (c) 1981-2009 The Computer Language Company Inc. All rights reserved.