Modules

Abstract

Before we begin with this chapter, let us take an excursion into the world of home stereo Systems: In the 1950s and 1960s high-end high fidelity devices were usually built into cabinets. The turntable was operated from above, and the controls for the radio and for volume and tone were at the front (or also at the top). Loudspeakers were built in underneath and at the sides. The complete stereo system was a unit. Meanwhile this approach has been forsaken almost completely. High-quality Systems now consist of a number of separate components; CD player, amplifier, tuner and Speakers each have their own housing. The components are connected via cables that transmit the audio information. The advantages are obvious: The buyer can individually configure a system according to price and quality criteria. If a component breaks down (e.g., the tuner), it can be repaired individually while the rest of the system remains functional. Furthermore, the individual components are better because specialists have concentrated on designing each specialized Solution.