ADXL213AE: A Comprehensive Technical Overview of the Dual-Axis Accelerometer

Release date:2025-09-15 Number of clicks:69

**ADXL213AE: A Comprehensive Technical Overview of the Dual-Axis Accelerometer**

The **ADXL213AE** from Analog Devices is a precision, low-power, complete dual-axis accelerometer featuring a signal-conditioned voltage output, all on a single monolithic IC. This device measures acceleration with a full-scale range of **±1.2 g** and can measure both dynamic acceleration (e.g., vibration) and static acceleration (e.g., tilt). Its fundamental operating principle is based on a **polysilicon surface-micromachined sensor** and sophisticated signal conditioning circuitry.

The sensor structure is built on a silicon wafer using a process that deposits a thin layer of polysilicon. This structure consists of multiple tiny fingers that form a differential capacitor. Under acceleration, the proof mass moves, unbalancing the differential capacitor and resulting in a sensor output whose amplitude is proportional to the acceleration. This analog signal is then converted into a duty-cycle modulated (DCM) digital signal by a precision **duty cycle modulator**. The acceleration is proportional to the ratio of the T1/T2 period of this PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) output. For a 0 g acceleration, the output is a precise 50% duty cycle. The scale factor is set by a single external resistor (RSET), typically configured for a 1000 Hz output period (T2).

A key advantage of the ADXL213AE is its user-configurability. The bandwidth, and therefore the noise floor, can be set by external capacitors (CX and CY) on the XOUT and YOUT pins. This allows designers to tailor the device's response to the specific application, filtering out high-frequency noise that is not of interest. The device operates from a single **2.7 V to 5.25 V supply**, making it suitable for both 3 V and 5 V systems, and consumes a remarkably low current of **typically 700 μA**, which is ideal for battery-powered portable applications.

The primary applications for the ADXL213AE are extensive and varied. It is exceptionally well-suited for:

* **Tilt Sensing:** In construction equipment, game controllers, and robotics.

* **Motion and Vibration Analysis:** In industrial machinery health monitoring systems.

* **Inertial Navigation:** Providing basic orientation data for GPS-backup systems.

* **Shock and Impact Detection:** In transportation and logistics for monitoring package handling.

* **Platform Stabilization:** In automotive security and consumer electronics.

ICGOOODFIND: The ADXL213AE stands out as a highly integrated, versatile, and power-efficient solution for dual-axis acceleration measurement. Its combination of analog microstructure sensing with a flexible digital PWM output, user-adjustable bandwidth, and wide operating voltage range makes it a robust and adaptable choice for a vast array of motion-sensing applications across numerous industries.

**Keywords:** Accelerometer, Duty Cycle Modulator, Tilt Sensing, Low Power, Bandwidth

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