September 9, 2008: Virtus Advanced Sensors and Acutronic USA announced a collaboration to develop advanced tools for the testing of 5- and 6-axis MEMS inertial sensors based on Virtus’ proprietary next-generation sensor technology. The alliance brings together two leaders in the inertial sensing market.

The collaboration aims to integrate Acutronic’s inertial testing expertise with Virtus’ expertise in micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) inertial sensors in order to drive development of cost-effective, high-throughput test systems for 5- and 6-axis MEMS inertial sensors. The development of such a system could spark the growth of new high-performance, low-cost MEMS-based products, such as industrial robots, automotive ride stability controls, and consumer home health products.

“It has been widely acknowledged that growth in the MEMS inertial sensor market globally is quite strong, and there will be a continuing need to expand product and related testing capabilities for high-volume applications,” according to Louis Ross, president/CEO of Virtus. “Virtus’ collaboration with Acutronic will ensure that customers for our next generation sensor products will have advanced testing capabilities as well.””

For Acutronic, the agreement marks a major milestone in its vision of delivering turnkey inertial testing solutions to the MEMS industry. Acutronic has a broad range of products to serve the needs of the aerospace and defense markets. The collaboration will help to transition this technology to the MEMS inertial sensor market.

“MEMS inertial sensors are playing an increasing role in some of today’s most innovative products,” said Dominique Schinabeck, chairman and CEO of Acutronic. “This trend is creating a market demand for testing technology designed specifically for this market.”