Epson has developed a new synthesis chip for embedded applications featuring Fonix text-to-speech (TTS). The S1V30120 is a companion chip that converts text-based characters into a synthetic speech signal, which is output via the integrated D/A converter. Since it uses a message protocol based on a clock-synchronous serial interface, the chip can be easily integrated with a wide range of host devices and microcontrollers. The Epson S1V30120 also supports decoding of ADPCM data, which allows mixtures of pre-recorded speech and synthetic speech to be combined as required.
Target applications include a wide range of systems that require voice guidance such as those embedded in home appliances, buildings, and office/industrial equipment.