The launch of these latest microphones marks Knowles’ further commitment to the automotive market, building on its industry leading high quality and innovation standards. The microphones follow the AEC-Q100/103 qualification requirements set by the Automotive Electronics Council, the standardization body for establishing standards for reliable, high quality electronic components for use in the harsh automotive environment.
"We are pleased to introduce a new grade of MEMS microphones for the automotive industry. As both consumers and commuters in a connected world, we look forward to providing car and truck makers with additional capabilities to develop better voice call quality and innovative audio features, as well as enable quieter travel for years to come," says Greg Doll, General Manager and Vice President of Product Management at Knowles. "Diverse supply chains are more important than ever as well. We have our own proprietary MEMS microphone designs that can be scaled from our two multi-national factories at high-volume to provide manufacturing flexibility for our customers."
The new Knowles SPH1878 microphone features both single-ended and differential analog interface, while the SPH9855 features a PDM digital interface. The two microphones are designed for beamforming applications and are compatible with the European eCall communication system. Key features include low phase distortion for superior noise cancelling performance, high dynamic range for enhanced call and sound quality, an extended operating temperature range for automotive applications, and improved manufacturing stability and traceability.
As the MEMS sensors, integrated circuits and packaging for the microphones are all designed in-house, Knowles is in a unique position to offer best-in-class engineering support to brands and product design and development companies through its global field application team anywhere in the world.
"We are excited to work with Knowles on our next generation automotive solutions", says Naoto Abe of Transtron Automotive Array Microphone R&D Group. "Knowles’ latest offering on low phase distortion and high dynamic range gives us the flexibility to use the same microphone for both active noise cancellation and communication systems. Knowles has delivered on their reputation for high quality products with AEC-Q100/103 qualification. We value Knowles’ commitment to the automotive market with their unique ability to design all key mic components."
Knowles is a leading global provider of advanced micro-acoustic microphones and speakers, audio processing, and precision device solutions. The company uses its leading position in SiSonic MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical systems) microphones and strong capabilities in audio processing technologies to optimize audio systems and improve the user experience in many mobile, ear, and connected applications. The two SiSonic MEMS microphones are currently sampling and are expected to be in production later in 2021.
www.knowles.com
