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Measuring Digital MEMS Microphones: Frequency, Sensitivity and Power Supply Rejection (PSR) Performance

seq_dig_mic_final_display_substitution_methodThis test suite contains 3 sequences to enable comprehensive testing of digital MEMS microphones.

The first measures the frequency and sensitivity and displays two graphs: absolute level in dBFS, and the same response curve but normalized to 0 dB at 1 kHz.

The second sequence uses the substitution method to test a digital MEMS microphone frequency response with a source speaker that is not or cannot be equalized. The MEMS microphone is simultaneously measuring with a reference microphone , and by subtracting the response of the reference microphone from the DUT microphone the response and sensitivity of the device under test is revealed.

Measuring Digital Microphone PSR (Power Supply Rejection)
The third sequence demonstrates a method for measuring a digital MEMS microphone’s power supply rejection performance (PSR). This sequence measures PSR at 217 Hz (the 217 Hz GSM TDM pulse often of concern) but is easy to modify to test at any frequency. A DC supply with a calibrated AC signal, simulating electrical interference is applied to the MEMS microphone. SoundCheck then records the audio from the DUT, analyzes it with a spectrum analyzer and extracts the RMS energy at the specific frequency of the simulated electrical interference and returns the PSR value. The setting of frequency, waveform type and amplitude of the simulated electrical interference is controlled entirely from within SoundCheck.

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Microphone Polar Plot Sequence

mic_polar_plot_screenshotThis sequence measures the directional response of a microphone and graphs the result as a polar plot. A log sweep stimulus is played from 100 Hz to 10 kHz at each angular increment, and the acquired waveform is analyzed using the Time Selective Response algorithm. This method allows the test to be performed in a non-anechoic environment by placing a window around the direct signal, eliminating the influence of reflections. Commands are sent automatically to the LT360 turntable via an RS-232 connection, instructing it to move in 10 degree increments after each measurement. The sequence measures the response every 10 degrees from 0 to 180 and mirrors the polar image, simulating a full 360 degree test while saving time. The response at each angular increment is compared against the on-axis response to create a normalized curve. This removes the influence of the device’s frequency response and sensitivity, such that the polar plot only shows the directional response. The final display also contains a graph of the directivity index in decibels versus frequency.

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Microphone Self Noise Test

The purpose of this sequence is to measure the self noise of a condenser microphone. To do this we use the spectrum analysis step and a power sum calculation to derive an RMS rating for the unit under test.

The sequence has several parts, a few of which are optional. The first section begins by prompting you to enter your mic preamp’s gain. If your preamp does not have a gain setting with labeled detents you may wish to use the “Amplifier THD + N” sequence located in C:\SoundCheck 18.1\Sequences\Electronics\ to determine this value. The following part tests the preamp’s self noise so that the system can determine whether you have a high enough signal (signal being the microphones self noise) to noise ratio to accurately measure your microphone.

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