Audio over Ethernet carries digital audio streams over time sensitive Ethernet networks. It reduces wiring, weight, and associated costs by allowing multiple audio channels to share network links instead of using separate point-to-point audio cables, which can be especially useful in premium and luxury vehicles with 32 or more audio output channels, in addition to several microphones acting as input.
It also enables flexible, software-based routing, so audio can be directed between zones or devices without changing the physical wiring. New audio endpoints can be added more easily as the system expands, bringing high scalability.
Precise time synchronization and audio clock recovery are key challenges; addressing them helps maintain consistent sound quality across speakers and enables applications such as active noise cancellation. In addition, the Ethernet network may support diagnostics and control.
It also enables flexible, software-based routing, so audio can be directed between zones or devices without changing the physical wiring. New audio endpoints can be added more easily as the system expands, bringing high scalability.
Precise time synchronization and audio clock recovery are key challenges; addressing them helps maintain consistent sound quality across speakers and enables applications such as active noise cancellation. In addition, the Ethernet network may support diagnostics and control.
Product and solutions
Explore how ST enables distributed in-cabin audio over an Automotive Ethernet backbone, supporting zonal software-defined vehicle architectures, synchronized audio transport, and reduced wiring complexity