INMP441 MEMS Microphone Module - High Precision I2S Digital Output

Specifications

• Sensor Type: MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) Omnidirectional.

• Interface: I2S Digital Output (Inter-IC Sound).

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): 61 dB.

• Frequency Response: 60 Hz to 15 kHz.

• Sensitivity: -26 dBFS.

• Current Consumption: Ultra-low 1.4 mA.

• Supply Voltage: 1.8V to 3.3V DC.

• Logic Compatibility: 3.3V (Ideal for ESP32, STM32, Raspberry Pi).

Key Applications & Projects

• AI Voice Assistants: Perfect for Alexa or Google Assistant clones using ESP-ADF.

• Smart Home Security: Sound-triggered alerts and high-clarity acoustic monitoring.

• Voice Recognition: High SNR makes it ideal for wake-word detection (e.g., "Hey Siri").

• Audio Streaming: Broadcast high-quality digital audio over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Project Evolution

• Past Projects (Prerequisites): If you have used the MAX9814 or basic analogue sound sensors, you have mastered audio input.

• Feature Upgrade: This module unlocks Digital Signal Processing (DSP). Because the signal is already digital, you can apply Fourier Transforms (FFT) or digital filters without the noise introduced by analogue-to-digital conversion.

• Effort/Requirements: Advanced. Requires a microcontroller with an I2S peripheral and knowledge of I2S bus timing (SCK, WS, SD).

Virtual Technician & Wiring

⚠️ Safety Warning: This sensor is strictly 3.3V. Applying 5V to the VCC or I/O pins will permanently damage the MEMS element.

Helpful Tutorials & Resources

• ESP32 I2S Microphone Tutorial

• INMP441 Official Datasheet

Package Includes: 1 x INMP441 MEMS Microphone Module

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Does this work with Arduino Uno? No, the Uno lacks an I2S peripheral. Use ESP32 or STM32.
• Is it 5V compatible? No, strictly 3.3V logic and power.
• What does "Omnidirectional" mean? It picks up sound equally from all directions.
• How do I select the Right channel? Connect the L/R pin to VDD instead of GND.
• Can I use this for speech recognition? Yes, it is the preferred sensor for the ESP-VA-SDK.
• What is the maximum distance for pickup? Up to 3-5 meters with clear clarity depending on ambient noise.
• Does it need an external library? Yes, libraries like ESP32-I2S-Microphone are recommended.
• Is the sensor hole on the top or bottom? The pickup hole is on the bottom of the PCB for better acoustic coupling.
• Can I connect multiple microphones? Yes, I2S supports stereo (Left and Right) on the same bus.
• What is the sampling rate? Supports standard rates up to 48kHz.
• Is it better than an Electret mic? Yes, MEMS technology offers much higher consistency and smaller size.
• Does it require soldering? It comes with header pins that may need soldering to the breakout board.
• Can it be used underwater? No, MEMS sensors are sensitive to moisture and physical blockage.
• Is it compatible with Raspberry Pi? Yes, via the I2S pins on the GPIO header.
• What is the SNR? 61 dB, which is excellent for a sensor of this size.
• How do I mount it? It is best mounted with the sound hole exposed to the environment.
• Does it have a gain control? No, gain is managed digitally in your software.
• Can I use it as a sound pressure level meter? Yes, due to its stable and predictable sensitivity.
• What is the "WS" pin? Word Select—it tells the processor if the data is for the Left or Right channel.
• Is the chip genuine? Yes, we source verified TDK/InvenSense grade MEMS sensors.