An open audio circuit that continuously captures sound, either because it is voice-activated or because a physical switch was left in the open position. In broadcasting and radio operations, an unintended live mic can broadcast private conversations or background noise over an active channel. Voice-operated exchange circuits intentionally use this principle to allow hands-free communication.
Heard on the job
Check your headset switches because somebody has a hot microphone and is breathing heavily over the command net.
Also heard as
- hot mic
- open mic