July 10, 2012 -- InvenSense, Inc. (NYSE:INVN), MEMS-based sensor maker, introduced its second-generation MPU-6500 6-axis MotionTracking device for smartphones, tablets, wearable sensors, and other consumer markets.

The MPU-6500’s 3 x 3 x 0.9mm QFN package is the world’s smallest for a 6-axis MotionTracking device, according to InvenSense. The single-chip design combines a micro electro mechanical system (MEMS) 3-axis gyroscope and 3-axis accelerometer with an onboard Digital Motion Processor (DMP). The MPU-6500 MotionTracking device offers nearly 60% lower power (1.8V operation) and a 45% smaller package than conventional designs. It consumes 6.1mW of power in full operating mode. Gyroscope performance is ±5dps zero-rate-output and 0.01dps/√Hz of noise; accelerometer specifications include a typical offset of ±60mg, 250µg/√Hz of noise, and 18µA of current in low-power mode.

The combo sensor enables pedestrian navigation, context-aware advertising, and other location-based services, along with supporting the specifications for emerging wearable sensor applications such as remote health monitoring, sports and fitness tracking, and other consumer applications. The MPU-6500 software drivers are fully compliant with Google’s latest Android 4.1 Jelly Bean release, and support new low-power DMP capabilities that offload the host processor to reduce power consumption and simplify application development.

Turnkey combo sensors can accelerate time to market and simplify design/software programming of devices, as well as inherent size and power reductions, simplified product qualification and inventory management, and precise sensor alignment and calibration. Learn more about sensor fusion in You make MEMS. Should you make sensor fusion software?

The MPU-6500 is sampling now to selected customers with mass production slated for Q4 2012.

InvenSense Inc. (NYSE:INVN) provides MEMS-based motion sensors for consumer electronic devices. More information can be found at www.invensense.com.

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