Product Overview
This EPTFE action camera microphone waterproof acoustic vent is built for the extreme conditions of underwater filming and high-speed water sports. It enables action cameras to capture clear, undistorted audio when recording above water, during splashes, and even at shallow diving depths, without using a sealed housing that mutes sound. The membrane withstands water pressure equivalent to 10 meters of continuous immersion, making it suitable for recreational scuba diving and free diving. It prevents saltwater corrosion and sand ingress, which are notorious for destroying sensitive electret condenser microphones. The vent’s high burst strength and resilient adhesive system survive rapid pressure changes from wave impacts and diving descents. Its ultra-thin profile (0.18 mm) integrates into the compact microphone channel of action cameras without altering the device’s form factor. The membrane is also anti-fog, resisting the condensation that occurs when a cold camera is rapidly exposed to warm, humid air, thereby preventing muffled audio.
Solution
Action cameras advertise waterproofing, but the sealed housing required for depth protection also severely attenuates sound, resulting in recordings that are either silent or sound like they are underwater even when filming above water. This vent allows the camera to record audio with an open, natural frequency response while keeping the internal microphone dry. It eliminates the need for separate waterproof cases for shallow-water use, enabling vloggers and extreme sports enthusiasts to capture high-quality narration and environmental sounds. For diving, the membrane admits ambient underwater sounds, providing a unique acoustic perspective without damaging the mic.
Specifications
| Parameter |
Typical Value |
| Material |
EPTFE with nano-hydrophobic coating |
| Thickness |
0.18 ± 0.03 mm |
| Waterproof Rating |
IPX8 (continuous immersion to 10m) |
| Burst Pressure |
≥ 0.30 MPa |
| Acoustic Insertion Loss (100 Hz – 8 kHz) |
≤ 1.0 dB |
| Pore Size |
0.1 – 0.4 μm |
| Anti-Fog Property |
No condensation observed after -10°C to +40°C shock |
| Salt Spray Resistance |
96 hours ASTM B117 (no performance loss) |
| Operating Temperature |
-20°C to +60°C |
| Adhesive |
Silicone-based, high shear strength (2 MPa) |
| Die-Cut Shapes |
Custom to camera microphone port geometry |
Application
Action camera microphone ports (e.g., GoPro, DJI Osmo), underwater camera housings with external mic, drone cameras in rain-prone missions, and helmet-mounted action cameras.
How It Works
The EPTFE’s nano-scale pores allow sound waves to travel between the external environment and the sealed microphone cavity without any mechanical valves. Water’s surface tension prevents it from entering the pores up to the rated pressure. During submersion, the hydrophobicity maintains a thin air film that transmits sound; this film does not collapse until the water entry pressure is exceeded. The high MVTR of the membrane also lets the camera’s internal humidity equalize, preventing fog on the lens and mic diaphragm when the camera transitions from cold water to warm air.
FAQ
Q1: Does audio sound distorted underwater?
A: The vent itself does not cause distortion. Underwater audio characteristics depend on the water medium (sound travels faster in water). The vent ensures the mic remains dry and sensitive, capturing underwater sound as well as physically possible.
Q2: Can I use this for professional diving housings?
A: This vent is designed for internal camera microphone protection. For deep professional housings (>10m), a dedicated mechanical pressure valve is still required. The vent is ideal for the camera body itself or shallow-water housings.
Q3: How do I clean salt residue off the vent?
A: Rinse the camera with fresh water after saltwater use. The hydrophobic surface makes salt easy to dissolve and rinse away without rubbing. Pat dry gently.
