Date: 16/08/2012

New 3-axis gyroscope from ST is small, fast and less noisy

STMicroelectronics has unveiled new L3GD20H MEMS gyroscope measuring 3 x 3mm and 1mm high. ST says the ultra-small dimensions of this gyroscope also allow experimental projects such as wearable electronics to move closer towards true practicality. One such application is the prototype smart suit that ST used to demonstrate inertial body-motion reconstruction early in 2012, which can help enhance various applications such as augmented reality, sports training aids, or medical therapy.

“Miniaturized, low-power sensors such as our new L3GD20H enable smart electronics to be used in ever-smaller and slimmer handheld devices, as well as in items such as clothes or sports equipment, creating opportunities for exciting new products and services,” said Roberto De Nuccio, Business Development Manager for ST’s Motion MEMS Division. “Both high-volume applications in smart phones and tablets and emerging applications such as prosthetics, medical instruments, goods tracking and power tools will benefit from this latest generation of tiny MEMS devices.”

L3GD20H draws 25% lower current than its previous generation of devices. The L3GD20H also switch-on faster after turning-on and produce less noise.

The new gyroscope retains a similar register structure as its predecessor (L3GD20), making it easy for designers to reuse existing software code and thus reduce time to market and lower development costs. Designers will also benefit from ST’s Sensor Fusion development environment.

Other features:
Three selectable full-scale ranges (245/500/2000 dps)
I2C/SPI two-line digital interface
Integrated low- and high-pass filters with user-selectable bandwidth
Power-down and sleep modes
Embedded temperature sensor and FIFO

Package, availability, and price: The L3GD20H, housed in the LGA-16 leadless surface-mount package, is scheduled to begin sampling in Q3 2012 and to enter mass production in Q4 2012 priced at $2.60 in quantities of 1,000 units.