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.

sensiBel is a Norwegian company developing a new generation of MEMS microphones using patented optical technology that they believe will be able to reach 80dB SNR and rival conventional studio microphone capsules, with all the benefits of a fully encapsulated solution. The company now announced a successful funding round of 15 million Euros, led by Germany’s TRUMPF Venture and including The European Council’s EIC Fund, Skagerak Capital, Investinor, and SINTEF Venture IV. sensiBel will use the funding to ramp up production.