Appendix - FireWire Chipsets
49
FireWire Chipsets
High definition audio flowing over FireWire requires a consistent stream between the chipset in the host computer and
the chipset in the SCS1 device. Unfortunately, some FireWire chipsets have known issues when it comes to the reliability
and synchronization required for streaming audio. It is suggested to use name brand PCI and PCMCIA cards such as
Adaptec®
when your PC does not have FireWire capabilities, as some no-name or “OEM” FireWire cards will use chipsets of FireWire
that have subpar performance and can affect stability or at worst the device will not work at all. Stanton recommends the
Texas Instruments® FireWire chips
for streaming audio. It is also suggested to stay away from Agere® chipsets as in testing
issues have been identified with these chipsets. Most Apple computers utilize Texas Instruments chipsets. However, it was
reported that in late 2007 Apple had switched to Agere chipsets for some production runs.
The easiest way to check if you have a Texas Instruments chipset is to run
Device Manager
and check the name of your
host controller. (Figure A.23)
Figure A.23
