September 25: STMicroelectronics’ complete free-fall detection solution, which consists of a 3-axis motion sensor and software application, has been chosen to protect the user’s data stored on hard-disk drives in the new Esprimo Mobile family of professional notebooks from Fujitsu Siemens Computers.
ST’s MEMS motion sensor instantly detects any abnormal movement of the PC and prompts the system to stop all reading and writing operations and to quickly move the magnetic head on the hard-disk drive to a safe position, before the laptop hits the ground.
Combining a micro-machined silicon sensor with an electronic interface and system software, ST’s free-fall detection solution helps secure sensitive data integrity.
“We were looking for a motion sensor that is able to respond immediately to any significant changes in direction, speed, and acceleration. ST’s MEMS accelerometers clearly represent a best-in-class combination of these elements,” stated Barbara D’Introno, director product marketing Fujitsu Siemens Computers.
ST’s sensor meets stringent drop-test criteria required in portable electronic devices. Its innovative mechanical design provides very high immunity to vibration and a shock resistance up to 10,000g. The sensor provides acceleration values at a very low noise level with minimized power consumption, which is especially critical in battery-operated portable systems, such as smart phones, PDAs, and laptops.
Three-axis accelerometers in full molded plastic Land Grid Array packages with a thickness less than 1.0mm. From left to right, packages measure 7×5mm2, 5×5 mm2 , 3×5 mm2, 4×4 mm2, and 3×3mm2. (Source: STMicroelectronics)