ST offers dual-function MEMS gyroscope

LONDON – STMicroelectronics NV has introduced the L3G4IS MEMS gyroscope with two output paths; one optimized for user-interface functions and the other for image stabilization in cameras.

The component comes in a 4-mm by 4-mm by 1-mm package and by making one gyroscope perform two functions effectively halves the component cost and board-space consumed. The device is intended to be used in smart phones and tablet computers where it provides motion and gesture recognition and image-stabilization for camera functions.

ST's gyroscope includes power-down and sleep modes and an embedded FIFO (first-in first-out) memory block for smarter power management. The sensor outputs data through independent I2C and SPI interfaces and offers additional digital embedded features, such as configurable low- and high-pass filters. The gyroscope embeds a temperature sensor and can operate with any supply voltage over the range of 2.4- to 3.6-V.

The L3G4IS gyroscope is sampling and volume production is scheduled for 2Q12, with unit pricing at $3.90 for volumes in the range of 1,000 pieces.


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