Xtrinsic intelligent sensors designed to keep drivers safe

The MMA6900Q and MMA6901Q are dual axis, low g, XY sensors, based on Freescale's high aspect ratio microelectromechanical systems (HARMEMS) technology for airbag sensing applications. The sensors, pictured, are said to have an embedded DSP ASIC, allowing for additional processing of the digital or analogue signals. The MMA6900Q has a ±3.5 g full scale range per axis, and the MMA6901Q has a ±5 g full scale range per axis. Freescale has said that not only will this technology improve the robustness of the sensor, but that HARMEMS technology will provide over damped mechanical response and exceptional signal to noise ratio in order to address customer requirements. Over damped HARMEMS technology reportedly enables a high degree of immunity to high frequency and high amplitude parasitic vibrations - something the company considers a key feature since the introduction of active safety applications such as electronic stability control (ESC). "Freescale is a leader in providing sensor technology that supports automotive manufacturers as more intelligence and connectivity are incorporated into their vehicle designs," said Demetre Kondylis, vice president and general manager of Freescale's Sensor & Actuator Solutions Division. "With the new Xtrinsic intelligent accelerometers for advanced safety, Freescale allows designers to reduce space and cost in advance of critical safety standards."