AKM Reveals Low-Power ADC Device With Acoustic Activity Sensor

Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation (AKM) has developed the AK5707, a low-power monaural 16-bit A/D converter (ADC) equipped with an Acoustic Activity Analyzer (AAA) and Audio Buffer for detection of specific sounds. The new compact ADC is useful for smart sensors that are able to detect glass breaking sounds or emergency alarms in multiple applications. The acoustic activity detect feature works at only 34μA, ideal for wearables.

The latest low-power T5838 and T5837 digital PDM MEMS microphones, part of the TDK InvenSense SmartSound family, have been elected by Syntiant as a microphone of choice for low-power edge AI application processors that perform keyword detection, due to its innovative Acoustic Activity Detect (AAD) feature that enables system power savings, thus prolonging battery life, and ability to intelligently detect keywords or voice commands.

STMicroelectronics has announced the LSM6DSV16BX, a unique highly integrated sensor that delivers important space savings inside hearable devices or general-purpose TWS earbuds, including for sports. The new device delivers longer listening experiences and superior hearing by combining a 6-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) for head tracking and activity detection with an audio accelerometer for detecting voice through bone conduction in a frequency range that exceeds 1KHz.

At CES 2023, TDK InvenSense introduced the T5838 and T5837 PDM MEMS microphones that offer 68 dBA SNR consuming only 130 µA in always-on mode and 330 µA in high-performance mode. The company also announced the new SmartSound One development platform that provides a plug-and-play evaluation interface for its MEMS microphones, and the new VibeSense360 hardware and software solution suite for advanced true wireless stereo features.

AIStorm, a pioneer of AI-in-Sensor SoCs for edge devices, announced a development partnership with Knowles Corporation. The collaboration will focus on achieving the lowest-power, highest-performance audio solutions available to enable emerging features. AIStorm’s patented analog and mixed-signal IP, combined with Knowles’ audio signal processing technology and advanced micro-acoustic microphones and speakers, bring enhanced audio features and power savings to mobile, true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds, and connected devices.