MEMS microphones provide unmatched voice-recognition

Target applications are especially smart home as well as smart TV and set top box, secure keyless entry systems, and other voice-operated consumer devices. The performance of current MEMS microphone limits the effectiveness of systems: when multiple persons are speaking, the veracity and location of the voice source cannot be precisely identified and separated from inanimate object noise.

Infineon’s 60 GHz 2Tx/4Rx radar IC with accompanying antenna and the 70dB SNR microphone helps to overcome these impediments. The microphones are based on the dual backplate MEMS technology from Infineon and are well suited for far field voice capturing and beamforming. In addition, improving the SNR of the microphone will further enhance the performance.

The XMOS audio processor analyses the signal data from an array of Infineon’s digital microphones, adjusting the angular and distance data from each microphone to produce a beam at an angle identified by the radar data. A lit LED indicates presence detection and where sound is taken from.

The combination of an Infineon radar and the XMOS beamformer allows the microphone to target a specific object precisely, even with the object moving and indistinctive noise. The microphone delivers a superior user experience compared to existing voice-controlled systems, with clear understanding of commands and flawless execution that prevents unwanted activations of devices.

At Mobile World Congress 2017 (hall 6, booth 6C41), Infineon will demonstrate semiconductor solutions for secured and energy efficient communication in the connected world.

Highlights include intelligent street lamps for a smart traffic infrastructure, security gateways to protect connected devices in the smart home as well as new concepts for facilitating the interaction of humans and machines by using voice and gesture recognition.