All-in-one eCompass with innovative magnetic-sensing technology delivers benchmark accuracy with superior temperature stability
Integration of high-performance MEMS accelerometer saves space and power compared to existing alternatives
Smart phones, as well as smart watches, fitness trackers and other wearables are about to get better at guiding users and mapping their sporting achievements even where satellite navigation cannot work, using the latest electronic compass (eCompass) from STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications.
Fitness-tracking smart phone apps, smart watches, and bands need continuous location data for mapping and recording, and accuracy is critical for wearers who like to monitor their progress and share achievements online. A built-in eCompasshelps calculate location when satellite signals are unavailable, such as inside buildings or when running or cycling under tree cover.
ST’s LSM303AGReCompass cuts the heading error to less than 4°, leveraging the Company’s proprietary technology for manufacturing high-accuracy magnetic sensors. This enhanced accuracy, combined with ultra-low-power operation consuming up to 50% less than competing devices when in low-power mode, is particularly well suited to high-precision Pedestrian Dead Reckoning (PDR) on mobile devices.
The LSM303AGR also enhances dead-reckoning accuracy in applications such as automotive navigation, and maintains accuracy over the full temperature range from -40°C to 85°C, whereas competing devices can vary by as much as 35% or more over small intervals such as between normal room temperature and human-body temperature.
ST’s new LSM303AGR eCompass is available now, packaged as a 2mm x 2mm x 1mm 12-lead LGA, priced from $1.485 for orders of 1000 pieces.
Further Technical Information:
As an all-in-one eCompass IC fabricated on a single die, the LSM303AGR combines a 3-axis MEMS accelerometer leveraging ST’s proven ThELMA technology and a very compact 3-axis Anisotropic Magneto-Resistive (AMR) sensor that delivers higher sensitivity and lower noise than conventional Hall sensors. ST’s own AMR manufacturing process technology gives the LSM303AGR superior temperature stability compared to alternatives made using Giant Magneto-Resistive (GMR) or Tunnel Magneto-Resistive (TMR) technology. ST’s AMR sensor also has high dynamic range, which further contributes to the device’s accuracy by preventing magnetic saturation in areas of high ambient-field strength.
Further information can be found at www.st.com.
