To test this feature, visit your live site.

AM Recording only static

I've been using the audiomoth 2.0 for nocturnal migration. After a particularly heavy storm, without changing settings, the AM has been only returning static in recordings. Has the microphone or chip been damaged? Maybe a leak in the case (I'm using the case purchased with the device)? Has anyone else experienced this?

6 comments

6 Comments

jt.quiet1au

May 18

I have an original (1.0.0) AudioMoth that has been largely sitting idle indoors although I regularly flash it with firmware updates. I deployed it to try to record foxes but got only static hiss and patches of work sounded more like interference but nothing else. Reconfigured it and tried again - same. Tested indoors without the waterproof case - same. Tried reflashing with an older version but same. It seems like it’s a hardware fault but not moisture ingress.

I’d like to try to fix it - or at least try to pinpoint the fault (the MEMS microphone seems like first candidate). Any suggestions as to signal/voltage test points etc?

Alex Rogers

Apr 17

This sounds like moisture damage to the microphone. Is the vent in the case still intact?

Alex Rogers

Apr 17

Replying to

You can normally hold it to the light to check for holes. Email andy@openacousticdevices.info about the possibility of repair.

evan chastain

Apr 17

Replying to

Yep. Just held it up to the light and there's a pinprick of light shining through. I'll email Andy. Thanks for your help.

J F

Jul 06

Replying to

Hello. I believe I have the same issue with my AM. After an unexpected light shower in the night, I found a small droplet of water sat on top of the membrane (seal). Shortly after this, all subsequent recordings had a noticable and regular "tick". One night, the recording failed altogether and I haven't been able to resolve this. I imagine this is a moisture issue that has affected the mic. Can you let me know how you got on with the repair process? I think I need to do the same. Thanks, Josh.