Sensors based on MEMS (Micro-electro mechanical systems) technology are conquering many market segments, ranging from mobile communication and computing to consumer electronics, healthcare and industrial.
The average annual growth of MEMS market is more than 20%, that’s why is expected to reach $10 billions by 2010*, when analysts predict that every portable HDD-based device and mobile phone will contain a MEMS-based accelerometer.
In this scenario, ST is playing a major role, with a broad portfolio of multi-axis accelerometers already in high-volume production and hundred millions components delivered to the market.
The most challenging and forward-thinking test today is represented by the capability to discover and foresee new applications to entertain, amaze, and to protect the end user. That’s why ST is continuously investing in research and development of new MEMS-based products as gyroscopes, pressure sensors, microphones, and module solutions and it is establishing strategic partnerships with leading companies.
In addition, ST’s capability to match mass market requests is guarantee by the first state-of-the-art 8” silicon manufacturing line, with full ownership of manufacturing and testing flow, to properly accommodate the fast time-to-market required by the consumer market and guarantee long term products availability, high volumes in scale production and roadmap continuity.
(* ST estimate based on data from market research analysts In-Stat, Nexus and Yole Development.)
MEMS-based sensors are ideal for a wide array of applications
in consumer, communication, automotive and industrial markets.
The consumer market has been a key driver for MEMS technology
success. For example, in a mobile phone, MP3/MP4 player or PDA,
these sensors offer a new intuitive motion-based approach
to navigation within and between pages. In game controllers,
MEMS sensors allow the player to play just moving the
controller/pad; the sensor determines the motion rather
than the player providing game input by pushing buttons. Another
typical application in the consumer market is HDD protection;
in the case of free fall, a MEMS sensor informs
the hard disk control to park the head, saving the data prior
to the shock when reaching the ground.
Another interesting driver market for MEMS-based sensors is
the industrial one where MEMS sensors can be used for vibration
monitoring and control. For example, vibrations can degrade
dishwasher and washing machine performance and reduce the lifetime
itself. MEMS sensors can be used to measure the vibrations
and, as a result, identify potential machine problems
prior to equipment failure, so allowing preventive maintenance
to be implemented.
New Products
LY530AL:
single-axis analog and digital output yaw rate gyroscope
LIS344ALH:
3-axis, high performance ± 2g/± 6g ultra-compact accelerometer
LIS244ALH:
2-axis, high performance ± 2g/± 6g ultra-compact accelerometer
LIS344AL:
3-axis, ± 3.5g ultra-compact linear accelerometer
LIS331DL:
3-axis, ± 2g/± 8g smart motion sensor with digital
output
