Mic Amp Claims Breakthrough In Noise Suppression

Employing proprietary far-field noise suppression technology, the PowerWise LMV1088 dual-input microphone array amplifier reduces background noise and improves voice clarity in mobile phones, two-way radios, and powered headsets. According to the company, the device dramatically improves the voice signal-to-background-noise ratio while retaining natural speech quality. Additionally, the device allegedly consumes one-tenth the power (1 mA) of comparable DSP or microprocessor software-based systems. Its continuous-time analog processing provides instantaneous response to voice and background noise signals, unlike DSPs and processors that require extra computation time to adjust to background noise levels. Available in a 3.5 mm x 3.5 mm, 36-bump micro SMDxt package, features include a PSRR of 85 dB at 1 KHz, typical SNR of 60 dB, less than 1% THD (A-weighted THD+N), automatic calibration circuitry, and four selectable operating modes. Price is $9.95 each/1,000. NATIONAL SEMICONDUCTOR CORP., Santa Clara, CA. (800) 272-9959.