Configuring the mics posed unique challenges.

We kept in mind that we were very limited in internal space within the hive, and after completing the mic holders, we created our mic assemblies.  After lengthy research, including multiple phone consultations with four major international mic producers, we used Knowles I2S MEMs omnidirectional microphones.  The most critical consideration is the accuracy and ability to capture honey bee frequencies (100Hz to 3000Hz) with low noise interference (it's already very noisy inside a beehive).

The mics were individually mounted on small PCBs we designed specifically to hold the mics, a connect and a couple of basic electronic components necessary for mic operation.  I  decided to coat the microphone boards with a food-grade, quick-drying epoxy. This prevents the electronics from shorting or being chewed by curious bees and ensures that the bees are protected from exposure to electrical currents. The epoxy provided a durable, bee-safe barrier critical for maintaining the integrity of both the hive and the sensors.