STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM),
a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across
the spectrum of microelectronics applications., has introduced a new family
of single- and multi-axis MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) gyroscopes.
Underpinned by the Company's market-proven micromachining technology,
which utilizes the unique mechanical properties of silicon by producing structures
within the semiconductor chip to measure movement, ST's gyroscopes deliver
superior performance and reliability for angular-motion detection in human-machine
interface applications, personal and car navigation systems, and image stabilization
for digital still and video cameras. Gyroscopes complement acceleration sensors
in ever more popular man-machine interfaces, making gaming and remote-pointing
more exciting, enhance car navigation applications for dead-reckoning and/or
map-matching, and counteract digital video or still camera shaking for sharper
shots.
ST's complete family of single-axis (yaw) and two-axis (pitch-and-roll,
pitch-and-yaw) MEMS gyroscopes offers the industry's widest full-scale
range, from 30 to 6,000 dps (degrees per second). The innovatively designed
sensors can provide two separate outputs for each axis at the same time –
an unamplified output value for general detection of angular motion and a 4x
amplification for high-resolution measurements that enhances design flexibility
and the user experience.
ST's new gyroscopes boast excellent stability over a wide temperature
range and time, with variation typically lower than 0.05dps/°C for zero-rate
level, eliminating the need for further temperature compensation in the application.
Measurement precision is ensured with the negligible level of noise that affects
the output signal (0.014dps/sqrt(Hz) at 30dps full-scale).
The high-performance MEMS gyroscopes are resistant to mechanical stress thanks
to the robust process already successfully applied to the several hundred million
ST accelerometers sold in the market and are able to operate with any supply
voltage in the range of 2.7 to 3.6 V. The 5x5 mm LGA package, together with
the innovative design approach, ensures a high level of integration in space-constrained
designs as well as better performance and soldering stability compared with
bulkier ceramic packages.
Samples of the complete family of MEMS gyroscopes (yaw, pitch-and-roll, and
pitch-and-yaw) with full scales ranging from 30dps to 6000dps are available
now and mass production is expected to start in Q3 2009. Examples include LPR503AL,
a two-axis pitch-and-roll gyroscope with 30dps and 120dps full scales, and LPY550AL,
a two-axis pitch-and-yaw gyroscope with 500dps and 2,000dps full scales.
Unit pricing is $2.5 for quantities of tens of thousands pieces.