Accelerometer/magnetometer-fusion sensor gives mobile device highly accurate eCompass

Accelerometer/magnetometer-fusion sensor gives mobile device highly accurate eCompass

To provide data that is more accurate with a faster response time than ever before, the Xtrinsic FXOS8700CQ 6-axis sensor combines a MEMS accelerometer and magnetometer with high resolution motion sensing and heading technology in a single 3 x 3 x 1.2-mm package. Supporting Windows 8, Android, and other operating systems, the fusion sensor is optimized for mobile apps, including augmented reality, gaming, navigation, and location-based services, as well as robotics and unmanned air vehicles (UAVs).

By integrating multiple sensors and embedded DSP functions into one device, the sensor can reduce system-development complexity, time-to-market, and costs. The sensor combines a 3-axis 14-bit accelerometer and a 3-axis 16-bit magnetometer with a high-performance ASIC to provide a typical heading resolution of 0.1° and heading accuracy within <5° for most applications. The chip operates at up to 400 Hz with both sensors active in a hybrid mode.

The sensor’s high dynamic range of ±1,200 μT allows flexibility in its placement on pc boards with permanent magnets (for say, speakers or vibrator motors). For platforms with hard-iron magnetic interference, the sensor has an embedded autonomous calibration for low-power hard-iron offset compensation.

The sensor is compatible with Xtrinsic eCompass and calibration software, with floating point and integer code that supports Android, Windows 8, and other operating systems. ($1.55 ea / 100,000 — samples available now, prod qty 3rd qtr. A $75 development board and a $99 kit with development board and USB board will also be available.)

By Richard Comerford

Freescale Semiconductor , Austin , TX
Information 800-521-6274
www.freescale.com