MEMS Accelerometer from STMicroelectronics Drives Movement-Activated features into Ultra-Slim Designs

Micro-mechanical components are built on a single chip using well established and robust processes similar to those for conventional semiconductor fabrication. So accelerometers and other devices such as gyroscopes can be produced within extremely small dimensions, and also benefit from low friction, low wear, and high shock resistance. Hundreds of millions of MEMS components are already in service, supporting adaptive and interactive features in consumer products such as smart-phone handsets, GPS devices, portable computers, game controllers, automotive subsystems, and industrial, medical, and scientific equipment.

Applications for ST’s LIS302DLH digital three-axis accelerometers include motion sensing, orientation awareness, free-fall detection, and vibration monitoring. Low-voltage operation and low power consumption make this device ideal for battery-powered products. It has a power-saving shutdown mode, and wakes automatically when motion is detected. The integrated digital circuitry outputs acceleration measurements up to +/-8g in the industry-standard I2C/SPI serial format, allowing direct connection to the system processor with no external components required. The LIS302DLH is also pin-to-pin compatible with other 3-axis devices in ST’s Piccolo digital family, including the LIS302DL and LIS35DE, providing the market with a high level of product scalability.

Samples are available immediately, and mass production is scheduled for early Q3 2009 at $1.35 for orders over 10,000 pieces.