San Jose, California-based Sierra Semiconductor Corp is shipping an integrated chip set that the company says is the first to offer concurrent sound, data, facsimile, speakerphone, and modem functions. Specifically, the chip set, dubbed Quartet, but officially named the SQ3265 – is said to feature SoundBlaster-16 software compatibility, AccuSound full-duplex speakerphone capabilities, Plug & Play for Windows95, as well as data, facsimile and speech features. It claims to offer these features concurrently, enabling users to take advantage of the sound features while using its communications capabilities at the same time. It comprises four chips: the sound and modem controller; sound mixer; modem analogue front end; and digital signal processor. It includes Sierra’s AccuSound full-duplex speakerphone technology, as well as other telephony functions. It is out now at $45 for 10,000-up.
