STMicroelectronics LIS2DS12 3, LSM6DSL/M and LSM303AH smart motion sensors

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STMicroelectronics is helping social fitness fans stay motivated with innovative, smart motion sensors that enable always-on tracking applications to run for longer and better record progress.

The LIS2DS12 3-axis ‘pico’ accelerometer, LSM6DSL/M 6-axis inertial module and LSM303AH eCompass help track movement continuously with minimal impact on device battery life by performing various motion-related calculations efficiently on-chip instead of using the main system processor. Pre-embedded algorithms that include a high-precision pedometer, step detection, step counting and significant motion and tilt detection reduce engineering effort and accelerate time to market for apps on devices such as fitness bands, medical monitors, personal navigation and IoT nodes, in addition to smartphones and wearable devices.

The LSM303AH eCompass combines an accelerometer with a magnetic sensor that more than doubles the heading accuracy of other eCompass or pure magnetometer solutions tested at the same geographical latitudes, according to the company. Combined with the continuous step monitoring, this ensures precise location awareness by dead reckoning where there is no GPS signal, such as in offices, car parks or shopping malls. In addition, ST has engineered software that simplifies user calibration of the temperature drift and the magnetic sensor.

ST’s smart sensors also implement selectable power modes and resolution that help optimise energy efficiency and performance. Additional features that simplify system design include an embedded FIFO, built-in self-test, integrated temperature sensor and programmable interrupts for conditions such as freefall.