Measuring both vibration and acceleration

Paul Boughton

Silicon Designs Inc (SDI), designer and manufacturer of industrial-grade MEMS accelerometer chips and modules, has announced the global market introduction of the Model 1410.

Model 1410 is a family of digital pulse density output MEMS variable capacitive (VC) accelerometers, designed to reliably measure both vibration and acceleration, with very low power consumption and high long-term bias stability (1000PPM typical). This makes them ideal for use within low current applications consuming only 2mA with 5 volts excitation.

Model 1410 uses a clock frequency between 100KHz and 1.0MHz

The Model 1410 uses a clock frequency between 100KHz and 1.0MHz and produces a pulse density output relative to acceleration. Units are available in seven standard ranges, from ±2g to ±200g, with sensitivities from 0.625 kHz/g (200 g range) to 62.5 kHz/g (2 g range). 

Frequency response is from 0 to 400Hz (±2g) up to 0 to 2000Hz (±200g) at fixed intervals according to selected g range, successfully responding to DC (continuous) and dynamic acceleration. A robust MEMS VC accelerometer design allows the Model 1410 to withstand mechanical shock inputs up to 5000 g (2000 g on low range units – 2g and 5g FSO) without damaging the unit. All units are serialised for traceability and quality control. Custom ranges are available upon request.

Design of the Model 1410 incorporates Silicon Designs’ own proprietary MEMS sensing element, which features constant nitrogen damping over its full operating temperature range (-55 to +125°C). Each unit is hermetically sealed in a miniature package measuring 0.360-in L X 0.350-in W X 0.165-in H, terminating in either a 20-pin LCC or JLCC type connector. This makes them suitable for placement on circuit boards, in small packages or for OEM applications. The digital output signal of the Model 1410 is compatible with TTL/CMOS devices, allowing for easy interface to microprocessors and other instrumentation. The SDI Model 1410 may also be used as a higher performance drop-in replacement for the popular Model 1010.

Typical applications for the Model 1410 include microcomputer controlled applications, such as automotive airbags, active suspension, adaptive brakes, and security systems; fuzing; shipping recorders; appliances; vibration measurement and analysis, and machinery control.  Standard g ranges are available in low-to-medium sized quantities for immediate customer shipment.