Azoteq is an IP-rich fabless semiconductor design house that pioneered multi-sensor technology on a single chip. Azoteq brings novel technologies to high-volume consumer goods. Azoteq solutions are perfectly suited for integration in musical instruments. Visit https://www.azoteq.com/.
Azoteq Positional Sensor Module with Microprocessing
- Positional Data Output on I2C, USB, Ethernet
- Replaces traditional switch based keybed
- Poly Aftertouch via the same sensor
Choice of Output: Raw Positional Data, Interpreted Data, MIDI 1.0, and MIDI 2.0
- Accurate Position Scanning, with clean, linear output
- High Accuracy Velocity – measured through the whole key stroke
- Poly Aftertouch available from the same sensor, no added cost
- USB MIDI 2.0 with legacy fallback to USB MIDI 1.0
Proven Technology
- Inductive Sensors by Azoteq: Industry leader in sensor technology
- Affordable: Solution as used in gaming keyboards
- MIDI 1.0 and 2.0 technology by AmeNote
- Leaders in MIDI 2.0 specification development
Sensor Solutions
Traditional Key Action
Keyboards in digital pianos synthesizers typically have 2 switches under each key to measure key velocity and sometimes a pressure sensor.
The velocity of the musician’s touch is measured when the key moves down. The key first hits the S1 switch, then it hits the S2 switch. A processor measures the time between these 2 actions to determine the key velocity for musical dynamics.
Some keyboards also have a PR pressure sensor, used to capture “aftertouch”. This is most often a single sensor shared by all keys across the keyboard. Sometimes, each key has it’s own pressure sensor for more expressive “poly-aftertouch”, but this is a more expensive design feature.
Azoteq Positional Key Sensor
Using inductive sensing technology from Azoteq and musical technology from AmeNote, a single position sensor replaces traditional switches and pressure sensors.
A single sensor is able to measure velocity through the whole range of motion, to more accurately capture the musician’s musical expression.
The property to trigger a Note is programmable. For example track key velocity through the whole range to better emulate the momentum of an acoustic piano action and hammer. Use a low-placed trigger point for synthesizer control. Use a high-placed trigger for an organ keyboard. Or generate all 3 at the same time.
The positional sensor also replaces per-key pressure sensors for poly-aftertouch with no added components or cost.
Unlike traditional switches, the sensor is a no-contact mechanism, with no mechanical parts to wear out.
Sensor Development Kit
Azoteq and AmeNote provide a development kit comprising a 2-octave keyboard evaluation kit.
- SPI Output provides direct access to raw data output
- USB Output provides several MIDI output modes for immediate testing
- Connects to AmeNote ProtoZOA development platform for additional functionality and customization via open firmware running on a Raspberry Pico.
Integration Support and Supply
Azoteq can provide technical and engineering integration support, with additional support from AmeNote. AmeNote is the exclusive sales agent for Azoteq positional sensor for musical keyboards. Contact us for more information.