STMicroelectronics shrinks acceleration sensor footprint by 50 percent

December 02, 2011 // Paul Buckley

STMicroelectronics has introduced ultra-low-power, high-performance three-axis accelerometers in 2x2 mm packages. Reducing the size by a factor of 2 over current-generation devices, ST’s newest acceleration-sensor family is suitable for motion-sensing features in power- and space-constrained consumer applications, such as mobile phones, tablets and gaming controls.

ST’s LIS2DH and LIS2DM accelerometers provide accurate, high-resolution output across full-scale ranges of ±2g/±4g/±8g/±16g and boast excellent stability over time and temperature. The sensors come with advanced embedded features, including 4D/6D orientation detection and two programmable interrupt signals that enable immediate notification of motion detection, free fall, and other conditions.

Addressing power constraints in battery-operated portable devices, ST’s accelerometers include power-down and sleep modes and a FIFO (first-in first-out) memory block for smarter power management. They also embed a temperature sensor and a self-test function that allows the customer to verify the functioning of the sensor after it has been assembled on board.

The LIS2Dx devices are software-compatible with the company’s current 3-axis accelerometers, so customers can easily ‘hot swap’ and protect their investment in application development.

For further information: www.st.com/mems.

Technical papers     

• High Voltage Surge Stoppers Ensure Reliable Operation During Power Surges
• AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation Field Analyzers
• 16-Bit, 100 kSPS Low Power Successive Approximation ADC System
• Replacing the Candle in the Candelabra

December 15, 2011 | Texas instruments | 222901974

Unique Ser/Des technology supports encrypted video and audio content with full duplex bi-directional control channel over a single wire interface.