October 2, 2008: Virtus Advanced Sensors Inc. has unveiled a three-axis analog accelerometer, the first product of its multi-axis motion sensor family to meet the growing demand for motion sensors in cost-sensitive consumer electronics.

The VAS340A accelerometer includes a sensing element manufactured using a proprietary technology in an ultra-compact plastic package. The sensing element has a single proof mass structure capable of measuring accelerations in X, Y, and Z directions. The sensor was developed specifically for use in mass produced consumer electronics devices, with a compact size, low operating voltage, and low power consumption desirable for space-constrained applications such as game consoles, TV remote controllers, next-generation cell phones, PDAs, pedometers, and healthcare devices. The new sensor also provides an interrupt signal when it detects a free fall making it ideal for hard disk drive protection.

Virtus 3-axis analog accelerometer.

“The advent of low cost 3-axis accelerometers means the beginning of a wide variety of new and exciting applications that will surely lead to new unforeseen market opportunities over the next several years. Low cost devices will stimulate more applications development,” according to Louis Ross, CEO of Virtus.

The VAS340A analog accelerometer is the first product of Virtus’ multi-axis motion sensor family. The company is developing both analog and digital 3-axis acceleration sensors, multi-axis angular rate (gyro) sensors, and integrated motion sensors capable of offering the capabilities of accelerometer and gyro sensor on a single chip. All of the Virtus motion sensors will be supplied in ultra-compact packaging to allow customers to reduce the size and cost of motion sensing-based products and enable new applications that will change the way we interact with machines.