Nov 30 2010
STMicroelectronics, a leading semiconductor fabricator, has launched a novel MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) sensing device.
The company states that its innovative miniature silicon pressure sensor called, the LPS001WP employs an advanced technology for delivering intensive resolution evaluation of pressure and altitude, in a highly condensed thin enclosure for applications in sports watches, smart phones, and other mobile devices and in automotive sectors, weather stations and industrial purposes.
The functional pressure range of these sensors is in the range is 300-1100millibar,with atmospheric pressures ranging from -750m and +9000m with reference to sea level, and are capable of identifying pressure variations about 0.065millibar, with respect to 80cm of altitude.
The LPS001WP pressure sensor is oriented on a pliable silicon membrane enveloped over an air cavity having a controlled orifice and specified pressure. The membrane consists of a piezoresistor, in which the electrical resistance deviates as the membrane bends with respect to fluctuations in the exterior pressure. The variation in resistance is measured and temperature compensated and is transformed to a digital reading that can be sensed by the host processor of the device, employing SPI or I2C transmission protocols.
Source: http://www.st.com