Pressure Sensor Simplifies System Design

Based on MEMS technology, the Xtrinsic MPL3115A2 pressure sensor processes pressure and temperature data locally, requiring fewer computations assigned to the applications processor and thereby reducing power compared to systems using sensors directly managed by the host processor. The component features a FIFO memory buffer, standby mode of 2 mA, and a low-power mode of 8.5 mA. Other features include a 30-cm resolution. Price is $1.50 each/10,000. FREESCALE SEMICONDUCTOR INC., Austin, TX. (800) 521-6274.