The processing power of today’s smartphones and PDAs allow users to enjoy music, movies and even TV on the go. And with wireless broadband connections being so prevalent today, various VoIP and IM programs such as Skype are positioning their way into handheld devices to provide users with low cost telephony alternatives. However, most handheld devices do a poor job of capturing sound, and most only support half-duplex speakerphone conversations. A better sound capture technology will allow users to truly enjoy the benefits of hands-free talking, on the go.

As discussed in the SAM Benefits section, array microphones do a better job of identifying the sound source and suppressing ambient noise compared to a single microphone. However, due to its size limitations (a minimum of 30mm between each microphone), the broadside array microphone cannot be practically implemented in a portable handheld device. Other drawbacks in back-leakage and limitations in performing only horizontal noise suppression can also create an unpleasant experience for the user.

With SAM, microphones can be placed 5mm apart center to center, providing designers and manufacturers plenty of flexibility to find the ideal placement. A cone shaped beam is also formed (see fig. 1); with no back leakage and an effective 3-D cone-shaped beam, SAM can cancel out all ambient noise, accurately identifying the sound source and clearly delivering that signal to the computer. Users can now enjoy clear conversations over VoIP and a true full-duplex speakerphone capability.

Figure 1. SAM Beam-forming in a Handheld Device

Related pages:

1. SAM Benefits
2. SAM vs. Broadside Array Microphone
3. SAM in Automotive Hands-free Applications
4. SAM in PC/VoIP Applications