AN4426 Datasheet, PDF (1/18 Pages) STMicroelectronics – Tutorial for MEMS microphones

AN4426
Application note
Tutorial for MEMS microphones
Introduction
This application note serves as a tutorial for MEMS microphones, providing general
characteristics of these devices, both acoustic and mechanical, as well as summarizing the
portfolio available from ST.
MEMS microphones target all audio applications where small size, high sound quality,
reliability and affordability are key requirements. Based on MEMS (Micro-Electrical-
Mechanical Systems) sensor technology, our microphones meet price points set by
traditional electric condenser microphones (ECM), while featuring superior reliability and
robustness. MEMS microphones from ST are designed using common techniques but also
with industry-unique and innovative packaging that offers slimmer form factors and
outperforms traditional devices. Both analog- and digital-input, top- and bottom-port
solutions are available. Their best-in-class SNR makes ST's MEMS microphones suitable
for applications beyond typical consumer applications, such as phonometers and sound-
level meters that require a high dynamic range.
January 2014
DocID025704 Rev 1
1/18
www.st.com