The ability to sense linear motion (X and Y axis) and angular movement (Z axis), on a single chip, at a cost approaching $1 per axis, is opening the door for the rapid growth of tri-axis MEMS accelerometers, according to a report by EmTech Research, a division of Small Times Media. The new MEMS Product Brief, “Tri-Axis Accelerometers: Gearing Up to Rock the World,” takes a look at the suppliers developing these sensors and the difference tri-axis accelerometers are expected to make in a variety of markets and applications.

Among its findings: The integration of micro-drives into cell phones, camcorders, and MP3 players offers the most significant opportunity for use of these sensors in fall detection and memory protection, and while dual-axis accelerometers opened the door for use in consumer electronics, tri-axis accelerometers are expected to rapidly displace them.