Mobile Compassing Gets New Push from STMicroelectronics’ Power- and Space-Saving Geo-Magnetic Modules
The integration of high-performance motion and magnetic sensing, coupled with superior stability over time and temperature, makes ST’s newest digital-compass device particularly suitable for applications such as location-based services, pedestrian dead reckoning, map/display orientation, and direction finding. IHS iSuppli, a leading market research firm, expects the digital compass market to grow at a CAGR of 25%, from $208 million in 2010 up to $638 million in 2015.
The LSM303DLHC module provides extremely accurate output across full-scale extended ranges up to ±16g (linear acceleration) and ±8 Gauss (magnetic field), boasting a 60% increase in magnetic sensing resolution (2 mGauss) and a 40% reduction in size over devices currently in production. The device embeds a temperature sensor and a programmable FIFO (first-in first-out) memory block. Advanced features include 4D/6D orientation detection and two programmable interrupt signals that enable immediate notification of motion detection, click/double-click events, and other conditions.
ST’s newest geo-magnetic module addresses energy efficiency on chip and at the system level with embedded application layers, FIFO blocks, and smart sleep-to-wake-up functionality. With an operating power consumption of just 110 microamps, the device represents a 70% reduction over the recently announced LSM303DLM module, and works with any supply voltage in the range of 2.16 to 3.6V.
ST’s LSM303DLHC geo-magnetic module will be available in Q3 2011. Unit pricing is $2.10 for volumes in the range of 100,000 pieces. For further information on ST’s complete MEMS portfolio see www.st.com/mems.
Website: http://www.st.com
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JH LEE
Corporate Communications, STMicroelectronics
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This news is a press release provided by STMicroelectronics.