What determines a mic's operating temperatures?

[Icantthinkofaname]

What determines the temperatures given by the manufacturer that a microphone is safe to operate in? I have some AKG Blueline mics on the way and AKG says they're safe from -20°C to 60°C, Audio Technica says the AT4053b can't be left out in temperatures over 43°C but don't , Sennheiser says the MKH 8050 can be used in -10°C to 60°C, and DPA's specs for the 4011 and 4018 say -40°C to 45°C. Is it the something about the way the capsule is constructed, either diaphragm width, material, or the backplate? Is it true that electrets better at dealing with extreme temperatures and humidity?

 

[Lampie519]

In case you really want to know it is best to contact the manufacturer.
1 thing is for sure, they all don't like condense...

 

[gyraf]

..there are standard ranges for rating and specifying electronic systems, most of which include specification of working temperature range. I'd mostly see this as an artifact of some certification process..

/Jakob E.

 

[rogs]

.....1 thing is for sure, they all don't like condense...

While that is true for most condenser mics, it's not quite so important for RF bias mics - like the MKH8050 for example.
That is one of the main reasons that type of mic exists. The RF concept makes them low impedance, and much more suitable for outdoor use...
They are much less susceptible to problems from moisture - condensation or otherwise...