By overcoming extreme miniaturization, ultra-low power demands, and challenging acoustic environments, we enabled reliable long-range wireless performance with clear speech perception — even in noisy classrooms and large auditoriums.
ASIC technology made it possible
Unmatched patient comfort
Reduces the need for invasive procedures.
Superior imaging quality
High-resolution diagnostics with wireless transmission.
Exceptional energy efficiency
Optimized power consumption for extended operation.
The challenge
The engineering challenges were substantial
Speech Clarity in Noise – Background noise and reverberation in classrooms and meeting rooms make speech difficult to perceive for hearing aid and cochlear implant users.
Extreme Miniaturization – The radio receiver needed to be extremely small and discreet, connecting directly to the hearing aid or implant.
Low Power, Long Range –Ultra-low power consumption combined with high sensitivity was required to ensure reliable wireless performance, even in large auditoriums.
The Solution
Initially, we focused on the entire system architecture – on how the different units should best communicate with each other and which frequency band and code algorithms would be most suitable for optimum system performance. We helped Comfort Audio from the initial phase, using our various specialist skills within radio systems and miniaturization to develop a customer-specific ASIC solution (IC) and even a specially adapted antenna design. To guarantee function and optimize performance we carried out EMC, radio and antenna measurement tests in our Test Center.
The Result
A compact radio receiver, introduced in 2012, was integrated into a hearing aid system and powered directly from the device. The receiver connects to the hearing aid or implant and delivers high-quality audio reproduction, preserving the nuances and tonal characteristics of speech.The system supports a communication range of up to 25 meters. With a power consumption of only a few milliamperes at a 1 V supply, the receiver is optimized for low-power operation, enabling it to run directly from the hearing aid’s battery without requiring additional power management circuitry.
The key advantages of Turnkey ASIC with Shortlink
Cost efficiency
Lower component costs and simplify production with a single-chip solution, boosting your profit margins.
Unique features for differentiation
Go beyond standard components and FPGAs for a cutting-edge and innovative product that grants unique differentiation.
Ultra-low-power wireless technology for hearing solutions
To improve speech clarity in noisy and reverberant environments, we developed an ultra-compact wireless solution that filters and delivers clean audio directly to hearing aids and implants. High reliability, low power consumption and discreet integration enable better hearing experiences in everyday situations.
Unmatched patient comfort
Reduces the need for invasive procedures.
Superior imaging quality
High-resolution diagnostics with wireless transmission.
Exceptional energy efficiency
Optimized power consumption for extended operation.
Custom RF ASIC for efficiency and speed
Balances ultra-low power consumption with high-speed image transmission for optimal performance.
Miniaturized antenna for reliable connectivity
Ensures stable, high-quality wireless data transfer inside the body.
Advanced power management for extended operation
Maximizes battery life without compromising imaging quality or performance.
Endless Possibilities
Unlock the power of custom ASICs for IoT, medtech, industrial automation, defense, and consumer electronics. Get high performance, energy efficiency, and miniaturization tailored to your needs.
Internet of Things
Wireless, battery-powered mini solutions with 5+ year life. Ultra-low power and secure, compact design enabled by custom ASICs.
As a market leader, we’ve refined a structured ASIC development process that ensures quality, efficiency, and predictable outcomes.
– Systemize ASIC vs PCB
– ASIC Requirements specification
– Select technology node
– Review of existing IPs
– Set requirements and interface on individual blocks to be implemented into the ASIC
– Implementation analog/digital/mixed/RF
– Layout analog and digital backend
– Verification and sign-off
– Tape-out to fab
– MPW shuttle run or MLM
– Dicing and Packaging
– Mounting on test PCB
– Electrical verification against specifications
– Temperature cycling etc
– Selection of partners for post-processing and packaging
– Test development (ATE)
– Qualification and verification
Supply chain management including:
– Wafer procurement and packaging
– Final test on package level or wafer
– Test, 100% of all dies
– Distribution of ASICS
