Kionix 3-D accelerometer

Kionix is moving their KXTF9 3-axis accelerometer into volume production this summer. The first applications will be in Android-based smart phones, to be released later this year. Other applications include gaming controls, 3-D mice, and other pointing devices. The outputs for this product are optimized for a smart phone form factor.

The product is a MEMs sensor with one sensor for each axis and an ASIC for signal conditioning, A-D conversion, and processor interface. Due to the orthogonal structures and embedded algorithms, the part can detect single or double taps from any direction; front, back, left, right, top, and bottom. The sensor has high sensitivity, in the range of milli-Gs of force and low noise.

According to Ken Foust, director of customer technical support, the optimal positioning for the sensor is in the middle of the final product. Ideally, the sensor should be located for symmetrical inputs, but the sensor output parameters can be adjusted for offsets from this location. An typical application might be “blind” taps on the phone to transfer an incoming call to voice mail without taking the phone from your pocket. The mechanical portions of the accelerometer are also used in other products from the company, with circuitry for other types of applications.