STMicroelectronics Targets Smaller, Smarter Electronics with New Advanced 9-Axis Movement/Position Sensor
Highest integration utilizing latest MEMS technology boosts performance and
efficiency while squeezing size for smart mobiles and next-generation wearable
devices
Geneva, January 7, 2014 - STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global semiconductor
leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications and the
world's top MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) manufacturer[1] with more
than 900 MEMS-related patents and patent applications worldwide, has revealed
its most advanced module for 9-axis movement and position sensing in next-
generation mobiles and tiny wearable devices.
Delivering enhanced performance with reduced power demand, in a 3.5mm x 3mm
outline, which is almost 35% smaller than previous generations, the LSM9DS1
module supports the context awareness needed for features such as gesture
controls, indoor navigation, and augmented reality. Its small size and battery
efficiency, achieved by using ST's latest low-noise sensor technology, enhance
the usability and comfort of wearable devices by reducing bulk and extending
battery life between charges. In addition, greater positional resolution
enhances the stability and precision of applications such as smart-TV remotes,
game controllers, and wearable sports or medical sensors.
"This tiny, high-performance 9-axis module leverages our latest MEMS technology
to enable a wide variety of position-sensing and movement-tracking applications
in next-generation mobile and wearable devices," said Benedetto Vigna, Executive
Vice President and General Manager Analog, MEMS & Sensors Group,
STMicroelectronics. "With 30% higher magnetometer resolution, 20% lower power
and a footprint more than one-third smaller than other devices, designers have
extra freedom to establish new form factors and improve stability and
performance."
Engineering samples of the LSM9DS1 are available now, in the 3.5mm x 3mm LGA
leadless package, and budgetary unit pricing is $2.70 for orders over 1,000
pieces.
Further technical information:
The LSM9DS1 contains a 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis gyroscope and 3-axis
magnetometer, all fabricated using ST's latest MEMS process technology. These
sensors detect linear acceleration, angular rate and magnetic field to provide
complete position- and movement-sensing data. Moreover, they are well integrated
and synchronized to provide true 9-degree-of-freedom sensing rather than
separate, uncoordinated data inputs. On the other hand, each sensor can be
powered-down individually with automatic wake-up, allowing extra-smart power
management.
Compatibility with ST's LSM6 family of 6-axis IMUs (Inertial Measurement Units)
simplifies upgrading or scaling of existing designs to add magnetic-field
detection for functions such as e-compass and orientation sensing. Product
developers can also upgrade current designs that combine a 6-axis LSM6 device
with a discrete magnetometer to achieve a space-saving, simplified and reliable
integrated solution based on the LSM9DS1.
Compared to earlier 9-axis sensor modules in the 4mm x 4mm LGA package, the
LSM9DS1's footprint of 3.5mm x 3mm saves over 5mm(2) of pc-board space. This
reduction in area, combined with the low package height of only 1mm, is valuable
to designers seeking to add extra functionality in smartphones or create
innovative new products in comfortable, wearable form factors, including
glasses.
At the same time, the device has 30% higher magnetometer resolution, due to ST's
latest low-noise process technology, as well as 20% lower overall power
consumption. ST's advanced technology also delivers a significant reduction in
accelerometer zero-g offset, to below 100 milli-g, and reduces typical gyroscope
rate noise to 0.008 dps per square root of Hz at low full-scale. These
improvements enable any mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet, controller
or various wearables including smart glasses to support accurate motion
tracking, efficient and reliable contextual awareness, and precise orientation
and heading. ST's latest MEMS process technology also contributes to power
savings in combination with smart power-management modes which, together, reduce
typical operating current to just 2mA.
About STMicroelectronics
ST is a global leader in the semiconductor market serving customers across the
spectrum of sense and power and automotive products and embedded processing
solutions. From energy management and savings to trust and data security, from
healthcare and wellness to smart consumer devices, in the home, car and office,
at work and at play, ST is found everywhere microelectronics make a positive and
innovative contribution to people's life. By getting more from technology to get
more from life, ST stands for life.augmented.
In 2012, the Company's net revenues were $8.49 billion. Further information on
ST can be found at www.st.com.
For Press Information Contact:
STMicroelectronics
Michael Markowitz
Director Technical Media Relations
+1 781 591 0354
michael.markowitz@st.com
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[1] source: Consumer and Mobile MEMS Market Tracker H1 2013
9-axis MEMS Sensor from STMicroelectronics_IMAGE:
http://hugin.info/152740/R/1753070/591226.jpg
9-axis MEMS Sensor from STMicroelectronics:
http://hugin.info/152740/R/1753070/591225.pdf
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