ITASCA, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Knowles Acoustics has reached a major milestone in the history of MEMS technology with the shipment of its 1 Billionth SiSonic™ surface mount MEMS microphone. Knowles Acoustics, which shipped its first MEMS Microphone in 2003, is currently ranked in the top 5 Global Market Share Suppliers of MEMS for Consumer and Mobile Applications (Source: iSuppli Corp. January 2009) and is the world leader in MEMS-based silicon microphone manufacturing.

When utilized in the SiSonic™ patented microphone package, MEMS technology yields a low profile, robust component exhibiting low vibration sensitivity, environmental stability, and ultimately more efficient use in customer applications as a high volume surface mountable microphone. Today, with over 30 part models and multiple generations available, SiSonic™ is recognized as the preferred acoustic component in mobile phones, laptops, gaming systems, and headsets.

In 2004, to address growing demand, Knowles opened a new 80,000 square foot state-of-the-art manufacturing facility dedicated solely to SiSonic™ production. Located in Suzhou, China, the facility is highly scalable, capable of producing all SiSonic™ variations, and has provided the technology, manufacturing and logistical infrastructure necessary for Knowles to sustain future growth and meet the needs of global customers.

“Knowles’ long term commitment, willingness to venture into new territories, finding the ‘right’ suppliers, and financial investment, are all key ingredients to the success of the SiSonic™ MEMS Microphone,” said Jeffrey Niew, President of Knowles. “Shipping one billion MEMS microphones is a momentous achievement which illustrates Knowles’ dedication to not only produce revolutionary products, but to be visionaries in the world of acoustics and beyond.”

About Knowles Acoustics

Knowles is the world leader in microacoustic technology for the Hearing Health Industry. Leveraging the company’s heritage of 60 plus years supplying acoustic expertise to this market, Knowles Acoustics has applied this capability to new markets and customers. Knowles is a leading supplier of acoustic interface solutions; specifically MEMS surface mount microphones, subminiature electret microphones, balanced armature speakers and speech enhancement software. Knowles is owned by Dover Corporation, a multi-billion dollar, global producer of innovative equipment, specialty systems and value-added services for the industrial products, fluid management, engineered systems and electronic technology markets. For more information visit Knowles at www.knowles.com or call 630-250-5935.

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