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MEMS microphone allows clear conversations

STMicroelectronics has introduced a high-performance, low-power stereo microphone that throws down the gauntlet in sound quality and reliability at reduced size and cost. The MEMS microphone targets existing and emerging audio applications across a range of market segments including cell phones, portable media players, games, digital cameras, security systems, learning devices and hearing aids, where small size and high sound quality, reliability and affordability are critical. The MP45DT01 digital-output stereo microphone enables advancements in sound quality by providing omni-directional sensitivity to detect and filter out background noise. Sound quality can be further improved by incorporating multiple microphones in one device. Such microphone arrays are made possible with the small form factor and the enhanced characteristics. Leveraging established high-volume silicon manufacturing processes, MEMS microphones meet price points set by the traditional electret condenser microphones while boasting enhanced reliability and robustness as claimed by the company. The microphone uses sensor technology from OMRON that is inherently less susceptible to mechanical vibration, temperature variations and electromagnetic interference. These features are vitally important in cell phones and other devices with an audio input.