This paper describes the successful implementation of an OLE-based (Ob
ject Linking and Embedding) real-time speech compression and de-compre
ssion system for multimedia applications. It utilizes an application-s
pecific hardware based on Motorola's DSP56-1 digital signal processor
(DSP) and the linear predictive coding (LPC) approach for real-time pe
rformance. This OLE-based design together with its user-friendly inter
face can be readily used by other OLE client applications requiring su
ch features. Performance of the present system and additional design c
onsiderations for the realization of a cost-effective solution are als
o presented. (C) 1998 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.