13 Glossary

A

AAC (Advanced Audio Coding)

An audio compression scheme defined as part of the MPEG-2 standard (also known as MPEG-2 AAC or MPEG-2 NBC, or Not Backwards Compatible). It offers better sound and a compression ratio that is superior by roughly 30 percent compared to the MPEG-1 MP3 format.

AC (alternating current)

An alternating current is an electrical current whose magnitude and direction vary cyclically, as opposed to DC (direct current), whose direction remains constant. The usual waveform of an AC power circuit is a sine wave, as this results in the most efficient transmission of energy. However certain applications use different waveforms, such as triangular or square waves.

Album art

Album art is a feature that displays the artwork (cover picture) of a music album. This display enables the user to quickly identify

a music album. The artwork files for music albums can be downloaded from the Internet.

Amplifier

A device, either a single stage or a large scale circuit with multiple stages for creating gain, i.e. it makes small signals larger.

Antenna

A device, such as a rod or wire, which picks up a received radio frequency signal or radiates a transmitted RF signal.

Audio output

High-level (speaker) or line-level (RCA) signals sent from one system component to another; or the high-level signal from an amplifier to the system speakers.

Aux in

Auxiliary input that allows you to connect portable audio devices.

B

Bass

The lowest three octaves of the audio band. Low bass is the bottom octave (20-40Hz), mid-bass is the middle octave (40-80Hz), and upper bass is the 80-160Hz octave.

Bit / bits

A bit is a binary digit, taking a value of either 0 or 1. For example, the number 10010111 is 8 bits long.

Bit rate

Bit rate is the number of bits that are conveyed or processed per unit of time. The bit rate is usually measured in some multiple of bits per second (kilobits per second: kbps). The term bit rate is a synonym for data transfer rate (or simply data rate).

C

CBR (constant bit rate)

With CBR the encoder spends the same amount of bits on each frame, regardless of how much it may really need. Disadvantage of CBR: Bits are wasted in case of absolute blackness of a picture or complete silence in an audio frame. And pictures or audio frames with a lot of elements may need those bits.

CD (Compact Disc)

Format developed by Phillips, Sony, and Pioneer for conveying music and data. CDs record information by deforming the inner metal foil on the disc with tiny micro pits burned in by a laser.

CDDB

A centralized database of CDs, CD tracks, and artists on the Web, now known as Gracenote. The audio player or burner program can log on to CDDB. It uploads the ID of the CD

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Philips NP2900 user manual Glossary, Amplifier, CBR constant bit rate, CD Compact Disc, Cddb

NP2900 specifications

The Philips NP2900 is a versatile and stylish wireless music player that caters to the needs of audiophile enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. Launched as part of Philips' esteemed line of portable music devices, the NP2900 offers a unique blend of modern technology, ease of use, and high-quality sound reproduction.

One of the standout features of the NP2900 is its ability to stream music wirelessly via Wi-Fi and its compatibility with various streaming services. Users can effortlessly connect the device to their home network, allowing them to access a vast library of songs from their favorite platforms, making it a perfect addition for those who prefer digital music libraries over physical media.

The device is equipped with a built-in digital amplifier, which enhances sound quality and ensures that users experience a rich and immersive listening experience. The NP2900 also supports multiple audio formats, including MP3, WMA, and AAC, giving users the flexibility to play their content without worrying about compatibility issues.

In terms of design, the Philips NP2900 features a sleek and compact form factor that easily fits into any room’s decor. The user-friendly interface includes an intuitive control panel that allows users to navigate their music libraries with ease. Additionally, the device comes with a vibrant LCD display, providing information about the current track and stream options.

For those who enjoy listening to music while on the go, the NP2900’s portable nature means it can be easily moved from room to room, or even taken outdoors, thanks to its rechargeable battery. This functionality is further enhanced by the device's ability to connect to various audio sources via AUX inputs, making it a versatile option for multiple listening scenarios.

Moreover, the NP2900 boasts high-quality speaker drivers that deliver clear and detailed sound, ensuring that every note is heard as it was intended. The unit also features FM radio capabilities, allowing users to tune in to their favorite radio stations, further expanding its range of audio playback options.

In summary, the Philips NP2900 is an innovative music player that brings together modern wireless streaming technology, robust sound quality, and portability in a sleek design. Its diverse feature set serves the needs of music lovers looking for convenience, quality, and versatility in a compact device.