Emkay Releases Silicon Microphone

ITASCA, IL - Emkay Innovative Products, a division of Knowles Electronics, introduces a surface mount microphone based on semiconductor technology that is now available for general commercial purchase. The surface mount capability of the SiSonic* makes it suited for medium to high volume applications such as mobile phones and hand-held personal devices including PDAs, MP3s, voice recorders and digital cameras. The significant advantage of the SiSonic* over electret condenser microphones (ECMs) is the utilization of MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems), a technology that uses semiconductor processes to create mechanical moving parts out of silicon. The result is a low profile, robust microphone having low vibration sensitivity, capable of maintaining tight control of important acoustic parameters. The microphone can be assembled using standard automatic pick-n-place equipment and is compatible with lead-free surface mount soldering processes (260*C reflow for 30 seconds maximum). This eliminates off-line hand assembly, bulky and expensive connectors, and associated testing and rework issues/costs typical with traditional ECMs. "A major milestone has been reached in silicon microphone technology in the release of the SiSonic* to the commercial market. The first step in this revolution of microphone technology was to meet the acoustical specification of existing ECMs, while adding value in manufacturability and reliability. Achieving the first step is now complete, and over the next twelve months, Emkay will be introducing at least six new products, which differentiate SiSonic* even further. This will provide designers flexibility and additional value, not capable in mature ECM technology", said Jeffrey Niew, Emkay General Manager. SiSonic* is available with a standard supply voltage range of 1.5 to 5V. It has integrated EMI/RFI protection, an important feature for hand-held communication devices. Another key attribute is the microphone's operating temperature. Compared to the typical rating of below 85*C for the ECMs, the SiSonic* is rated up to 100*C, which maintains its sensitivity levels at higher temperatures.