ALC236
Low-power HD audio codec optimized for laptop and mobile applications
Product Overview
Description
The Realtek ALC236 is a low-power HD audio codec designed for laptop computers and mobile devices requiring quality audio with extended battery life and minimal power consumption.
This codec supports 7.1 channel audio with 100dB SNR while consuming significantly less power than desktop codecs. The integrated Class-D headphone amplifier provides efficient headphone driving with low power dissipation.
ALC236 includes power management features like Jack Detection with auto power-down, making it ideal for battery-powered laptops where every milliwatt counts.
Product Series
ALC
Primary Application
Laptop computers
Key Features
- Low power consumption
- 100dB SNR DAC
- Class-D headphone amp
- 7.1 channel support
- Jack detection
- Auto power-down
- 1.8V/3.3V operation
- Small QFN package
Specifications
| Channels | 7.1 Channel |
|---|---|
| DAC SNR | 100 dB (A-Weighted) |
| ADC SNR | 95 dB (A-Weighted) |
| Sample Rates | Up to 192kHz/24bit |
| Headphone Amp | Class-D efficient amp |
| Interface | Intel HD Audio |
| Power Consumption | Low power design |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +70°C |
| Package | QFN-32 |
| Power | 1.8V/3.3V |
Applications
Laptop computers
Electronic system design
Ultrabooks
Electronic system design
2-in-1 tablets
Electronic system design
Portable devices
Electronic system design
Battery-powered systems
Battery and charging management
FAE Expert Insights
"ALC236 is our go-to recommendation for laptop audio. The power consumption is significantly lower than desktop codecs - important for battery life. The Class-D amp is efficient and the 100dB SNR is good for mobile applications. The small package helps with space-constrained laptop designs."
Optimized for laptop audio with low power consumption
— Sarah Johnson, BeiLuo
Frequently Asked Questions
How much power does ALC236 save compared to desktop codecs?
ALC236 typically consumes 30-50% less power than desktop codecs like ALC897. In active playback mode, ALC236 uses approximately 50-70mW compared to 100-150mW for desktop codecs. In idle mode with jack detection, power drops to under 10mW. For laptops, this translates to 15-30 minutes additional battery life during audio playback.
Significant power savings for laptops. Extends battery life during audio use.
Does the Class-D headphone amp affect audio quality?
Modern Class-D amplifiers like those in ALC236 provide excellent audio quality comparable to Class-AB amps while being more efficient. The 100dB SNR specification includes the Class-D amp. Some users may notice slightly different sound characteristics, but overall quality is high. The efficiency gain is worth any minimal sonic differences for mobile applications.
Class-D provides excellent quality with better efficiency. Good trade-off for mobile.
Is ALC236 suitable for gaming laptops?
Yes, ALC236 is suitable for gaming laptops, especially thin-and-light designs where battery life is important. The 7.1 channel support and 100dB SNR provide good gaming audio. For premium gaming laptops emphasizing audio as a feature, ALC4080 may be preferred, but ALC236 delivers solid performance for most gaming scenarios.
Good for gaming laptops, especially portable designs. ALC4080 for premium audio focus.
What voltage supplies does ALC236 require?
ALC236 supports flexible power supply options: 1.8V or 3.3V for digital, and 3.3V or 5V for analog. The 1.8V digital support is useful for modern low-power processors. The codec includes internal voltage regulators and power sequencing logic to simplify power supply design. Typical laptop implementations use 3.3V for both digital and analog.
Flexible power options. 3.3V typical for laptops. 1.8V available for low-power designs.
How does Jack Detection with auto power-down work?
Jack Detection automatically senses when headphones are plugged in or removed. When no jack is detected, the codec enters a low-power state, disabling unused amplifiers and reducing power consumption by up to 90%. When a jack is inserted, the codec quickly wakes up and resumes normal operation. This feature is automatic and transparent to users.
Automatic power saving. Extends battery life when audio not in use.