AMR???

[blubomber]

What is the deal with these AMR slots showing up on new mobos? What does AMR stand for and what do they do? What goes in there?

[socalgal]

Hi blubomber

From http://www.whatis.com/

AMR (Audio/Modem Riser) is a specification developed by Intel for packaging the analog I/O audio functions of modem circuitry together with a codec chip (which converts back and forth from analog to digital) on a small board that plugs directly into a computer's motherboard.

The small board is called a riser apparently because it rises above the motherboard rather than laying flatly on it. Having this circuitry on a riser means that it doesn't have to be part of the motherboard itself.

Because getting certification for the manufacture of a new motherboard design is a lengthy process, removing this function from the motherboard provides more flexibility for manufacturers and allows advances in audio modem design to be implemented more easily. Another specification, MDC (Mobile Daughter Card) is the equivalent of AMR but for use in mobile computers.

In the past, an internal modem was installed in one of several slots inside the computer chassis and an external modem was plugged into a serial port at the rear of the computer. With AMR design, the slot can now be used for other purposes.

The AMR card can also provide the foundation for higher-quality audio solutions such as 3D positional audio and better MIDI music production.

[blubomber]

Thanks socalgal, and also thanks for the link!!

[MadMatt]

This standard was originally designed for OEM's, not us lowly consumers. I haven't seen any AMR Sound cards, but there are cheap (<$15) AMR winmodems available in case you REALLY need that last PCI slot.

[socalgal]

You're welcome! Whatis.com also has file format (extension) listings too - very handy!

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