R&D Stories: How Optical Technology Enables a Generational Shift in MEMS Microphone Performance

The article summarizes the evolution of MEMS microphone technology and describes the benefits of optical microphones over conventional solutions. This is a crucial reading to understand how the first generation of optical MEMS microphones have smashed the limits of SNR and dynamic range of miniature microphones, with 80dBA SNR (14dBA noise floor), 132dB dynamic range, 24-bit digital output and all with ultra-low power consumption.

Voice Coil continues its look at microphones with this exciting feature on optic sound pickup technology. Mike Klasco (Menlo Scientific) discusses how VocalZoom’s Laser Microphone is able to differentiate a speaker’s voice from extraneous background noise. This article was originally published in Voice Coil, December 2015.

Prepare for CES 2016 with the Voice Coil December 2015 issue, now available. In this issue, read how the Test Bench column has evolved, learn more about VocalZoom’s Laser Microphone, check the Microphone Capsule supplier directory and read about another audio patent granted to Apple. Learn more about two pro sound drivers as Test Bench focuses on the CF0617M 6.5” midrange driver from Celestion, and the 18iD woofer from Eighteen Sound.