MEMS microphones, ToF sensors, and motion-tracking IMUs from TDK deliver responsive, energy-efficient performance across smart home appliances, remotes, speakers, locks, and more.
The smart home experience is only as good as the sensors behind it. Whether it’s a voice assistant that reacts right away, lights that turn on as you enter a room, or a thermostat that adapts to your routine, performance depends on speed, accuracy, and efficiency.
With the sensors processing data on the device itself, these systems are fully capable of responding faster, using less power, and protecting user privacy by reducing the need to send information to the cloud.
Next-gen sensors bring intelligence, efficiency, and responsiveness to every corner of the modern smart home.
In order to meet the growing demand for intelligent, responsive, and power-conscious smart home devices, TDK has released a suite of sensing technologies tailored specifically for smart home devices. The new lineup includes ultrasonic Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensors for reliable presence detection, next-gen MEMS microphones optimized for low power and voice activity detection, and a range of IMUs with sensor fusion algorithms to support motion and gesture control across everything from smart locks to robotic vacuums.
SmartMotion IMUs with Built-In Sensor Fusion
At the core of the new product line is TDK’s SmartMotion IMU family, now featuring integrated sensor fusion algorithms. These inertial modules, such as the ICM-42670-P and ICM-42370-P, combine accelerometers and gyroscopes to detect motion, tilt, and orientation with high accuracy. The built-in fusion algorithms remove the need for an external processor, reducing system complexity and accelerating time-to-market.
This functionality makes the IMUs ideal for smart TV remotes, appliances, and security devices that require accurate gesture or tilt recognition. For example, the ICM-45605 model adds industry-first BalancedGyro architecture, offering superior vibration resistance and temperature stability features that are essential for use in busy home environments with fluctuating conditions. And with current draw as low as 200 µA in Low Power Mode, these IMUs support all-day use in battery-powered systems like smart locks or wearables.
SmartSonic ToF Sensor Enables Presence Awareness
Another major component in TDK’s offering is the SmartSonic ICU-30201 ultrasonic Time-of-Flight sensor. Capable of accurately detecting presence and measuring distance up to 5 meters, it enables smarter automation for lighting, door locks, and security cameras. Unlike infrared or visual sensors, this ultrasonic ToF solution works reliably in any lighting condition and with targets of any material composition.
The integrated MEMS PMUT (Piezoelectric Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducer) and on-chip processing allow the sensor to operate at ultra-low power, which is ideal for round-the-clock presence detection.
Whether used for waking a smart speaker as someone enters the room or adjusting HVAC systems based on occupancy, the ICU-30201 makes home automation more responsive and efficient.
MEMS Microphones: Voice Control Without the Power Drain
TDK’s SmartSound family of MEMS microphones rounds out the sensor portfolio, delivering high acoustic performance in small, low-power packages. Models like the T5838 and T5848 include Acoustic Activity Detect (AAD), an edge-processing feature that can identify voice activity while consuming as little as 20 µA. This allows always-on listening for smart assistants or intercoms without significantly impacting battery life.
TDK’s MEMS microphones deliver clear, reliable voice capture across everything from earbuds and smart assistants to industrial and outdoor environments.
The microphones are engineered for diverse use cases, from voice-controlled alarms to Bluetooth headsets and outdoor intercom systems. With digital PDM or I²S outputs and high signal-to-noise ratios, they provide clean, accurate voice capture even in noisy environments. Compact and reliable, they also suit constrained designs like earbuds or security cameras.
Built for the Expanding Smart Home Ecosystem
From security to convenience to energy efficiency, TDK’s new sensing suite provides the tools developers need to build more intelligent and adaptive smart home systems. The combination of motion tracking, presence detection, and voice input paves the way for seamless, context-aware automation.
As more devices within the home become interconnected and AI-driven, the quality and versatility of sensing hardware will play a decisive role in user satisfaction. With this launch, TDK reinforces its position as a foundational technology provider for the next generation of ambient intelligence in the home.
All images and video used courtesy of TDK.
