audio codec 97 (AC97)
The AudioCodec 97 (AC97) is an Intel specification for an audio codec from 1996. The AC97 specifications define an audio codec( AC), a modem codec( MC) or an audio modem codec ( AMC) with its components connected to it.
The functional scope of the AC97 includes the digitization of analog audio signals as well as their level adjustment. The Audio Codec 97 can be located on the motherboard or on a riser board that can operate in expansion slots such as the Communication and Networking Riser( CNR), the Advanced Communication Riser( ACR) or the Audio Modem Riser( AMR).
The AC97 has various audio inputs and outputs, such as a stereo line input and a microphone input, two stereo outputs for stereo and surround sound, and an optional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF). Resolutions are 16-bit, 18-bit and 20-bit, with a dynamic range of 120 dB at 20-bit resolution.
The quality of the audio codec AC97 is described as moderate and is not suitable for high sound quality.