STMicroelectronics (www.st.com) has introduced a set of three, high performance MEMS sensors which offers comprehensive and accurate information on angular, linear and magnetic motion as well as altitude readings, smarter user interface and optimized navigation in mobile phones and other portable devices.

A new kind of mobile applications, such as pedestrian dead-reckoning and location-based services for multi-floor and indoor navigation, has emerged and demand complex sensing capabilities. With three ST MEMS sensors —a gyroscope, a geo-magnetic module and a pressure sensor — a device can enjoy complete indication of its angular velocity, linear acceleration, earth gravity, altitude and heading. These data enable mobile users to identify their precise location and direction in all three dimensions, including in locations with low or no GPS signal.

ST’s first advanced filtering and predictive software engine facilitated in integrating motion-sensor data in various consumer devices. The software incorporated the outputs from three-axis gyroscopes, accelerometers and magnetic sensors. Fusing the data from the sensors via state-of-the-art algorithms, the iNEMO Engine provides more reliable and accurate sensor performance required by manufacturers of next-generation smart consumer devices for optimized motion-based applications.

“Multi-sensor capabilities enhance the mobile user experience with previously unseen realism and accuracy in next-generation motion- and location-based applications,” stated Benedetto Vigna, Group Vice President and General Manager of Sensors and High Performance Analog Division at ST MEMS.

“With its formidable arsenal of world-class MEMS components, software, design and manufacturing expertise, ST is leading the way to fusing multiple sensors in mobile phones, navigation systems, and other consumer devices.”

The new ST MEMS chips feature ultra-small size and reduced current consumption together with superior reliability and accuracy.