Single-, Two-Axis Gyroscopes Feature Very Wide Range

A family of single- and two-axis MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical systems) gyroscopes is well-suited for angular-motion detection in human-machine interface applications, personal and auto navigation systems, and image-stabilization systems for still and video cameras. The single-axis (yaw) and two-axis (pitch-and-roll, pitch-and-yaw) gyroscopes offer the industry’s widest full-scale range, from 30 to 6000 degrees/s (dps), according to the company. The sensors can supply two separate outputs for each axis simultaneously: an unamplified output for general detection of angular motion and a 4x amplified output for high-resolution measurements. Stability over a wide temperature range and time typically is less than 0.05 dps/°C for zero-rate level, eliminating the need for further temperature compensation in the application. Measurement precision is ensured with the negligible noise level that affects the output signal—0.014 dps/vHz at 30 dps full-scale. The MEMS gyroscopes run on any supply voltage from 2.7 to 3.6 V. They come in a 5- by 5-mm LGA package. Samples of the complete family are available now and mass production is scheduled for Q3 2009. Unit pricing is $2.50 in quantities of 10,000. STMICROELECTRONICS, Lexington, MA. (781) 861-2650.