MEMS Microphones offer 62 dB signal-to-noise ratio.
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Press Release Summary:
Using CMOS/MEMS membrane technology, Models WM7110 and WM7120 measure 4.72 x 3.76 x 1.25 mm and 3.76 x 2.95 x 1.10 mm, respectively, and consume 160 µA, making them suited for mobile phones, video cameras, and navigation devices. Both silicon microphones feature THD of 0.5% max at 100 dB sound pressure level. Offering enhanced sensitivity tolerance of ±1 dB, versions WM7110E and WM7120E eliminate need for production line testing and calibration software algorithms.
Original Press Release:
Wolfson Introduces World's Highest-Performing Ultra-Compact MEMS Microphones, Bringing Crystal Clear Recording to a Range of Portable Consumer Applications
Analog silicon mics' low profile, excellent SNR performance and improved sensitivity tolerance change the rules for multiple microphone design
Edinburgh, UK - October 20th 2008 - Wolfson Microelectronics (LSE: WLF.L) today announced the launch of the first devices in its new family of silicon microphones due for release over the next 12 months. The WM7110 and WM7120 are compact, high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) analog microphones for use in consumer applications requiring low power consumption and excellent signal quality. Using Wolfson's proprietary CMOS/MEMS membrane technology, the new devices deliver high reliability and performance in a miniature low-profile package. Wolfson is also offering enhanced WM7110E and WM7120E versions of the two devices, which are the first MEMS silicon microphones to deliver a sensitivity tolerance of +/-1 dB.
These new devices are the first results from Wolfson's acquisition of Oligon in January 2007 and the first deployment of Wolfson's AudioPlus(TM) True Mics technology. Wolfson's technology is based on its unique MEMS transducer IP which uses standard CMOS foundries to deliver greater reliability, repeatability and scalable production capacity, enabling cost and flexibility benefits to be passed on to the end customer. Unlike traditional electret condenser microphones, MEMS microphones can withstand the temperatures used in surface mount reflow soldering techniques and can be used with automated pick and place equipment. This removes the need for manual insertion of the microphone and reduces time and cost of assembly.
The compact WM7110 (4.72 x 3.76 x 1.25 mm package size) and ultra-compact WM7120 (3.76 x 2.95 x 1.10 mm package size) devices typically consume 160 µA, making them well suited for use in portable devices such as mobile phones, portable media players, digital still cameras, video cameras, navigation devices and noise canceling headphones. Both products offer an improved 62 dB SNR (A-weighted) performance, reducing the noise floor in the microphone to ensure cost-effective, crystal clear sound transduction. The devices also feature low THD (total harmonic distortion) of just 0.5% maximum at 100 dB SPL (sound pressure level), excellent linearity and flat phase response.
As the first MEMS silicon microphones to offer a tighter sensitivity tolerance of +/-1 dB, the enhanced WM7110E and WM7120E devices change the rules for multiple microphone design and bring innovative new applications into cost-effective reach. As well as removing the need for costly production line testing and calibration software algorithms, the tighter +/-1 dB sensitivity tolerance give the microphones better matching - a crucial element in the design of microphone arrays for beam-steering. Noise cancellation design can also be substantially improved with closer matched microphones.
Peter Frith, CTO at Wolfson comments, "The new ultra compact True Mics MEMS silicon microphones bring Wolfson quality sound recording to a wide range of consumer applications. Through our proprietary CMOS/MEMS membrane technology and +/-1 dB sensitivity tolerance we're bringing innovative multiple microphone applications into cost effective reach for OEMs/ODMs."
As part of the Wolfson AudioPlus(TM) strategy, the new silicon microphones are also fully compatible with all the Company's other audio products including Wolfson's Enhanced Soundware active noise cancellation technology. Adding microphones to its portfolio allows Wolfson to offer more components of the audio signal chain.
Availability and pricing:
The WM7110 and WM7110E will be available for sampling in November and the WM7120 and WM7120E will be available in December. The WM7110 and WM7120 are priced at $1.64 per unit in volumes of 1,000.
About Wolfson Microelectronics
Wolfson Microelectronics plc is a leading global provider of high performance, mixed signal semiconductors to the consumer electronics market. Wolfson is renowned for its high performance audio and ultra low power consumption, its devices are at the heart of many high profile consumer electronics products, including mobile phones, mp3 players, flat panel TVs and in-car infotainment systems. Wolfson technology enables exciting new end-user experiences by connecting the digital world to the human senses.
Headquartered in Edinburgh, UK, Wolfson has sales and engineering offices in the USA, Japan, China, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore and India. Wolfson Microelectronics plc is listed on the London stock exchange. (LSE: WLF.L) For more information about Wolfson Microelectronics, please visit: www.wolfsonmicro.com or sign up for Wolfson eNews at: www.wolfsonmicro.com/enews
