ST’s water-resistant pressure sensor is used by Samsung in Gear Fit 2
STMicroelectronics claims that it has taken underwater accuracy to new heights with its latest miniature pressure sensor. The LPS33 HW is used in the Samsung Gear Fit 2 Pro.
Samsung’s Gear Fit 2 Pro is the next generation of sports band, supporting extra activities like swimming. Samsung’s Gear Fit 2 Pro has built-in GPS, continuous heart rate monitoring, and larger on-board memory to do more even when not connected to a smartphone. ST’s LPS33 HW waterproof pressure sensor is resistant to chemicals like chlorine, bromine, and salt water, making it suitable for pool or sea swimming. It will also resist soaps or detergents used when showering or cleaning.
Wearables are only just beginning to swim, and waterproofing pressure sensors creates challenges beyond just protecting the electronics. The LPS33HW is not only the most accurate, says ST, but also helps OEMs get their products to the store-shelves more quickly by recovering sooner after the stresses of manufacturing. Other sensors can require up to seven days to regain maximum accuracy after coming off the production line, but devices containing the LPS33HW are ready for action in less than half that time, due to the sensor’s high-performance built-in processor and the advanced formula of its water-resistant gel filling.
In addition to smart consumer devices like wearables, other equipment including industrial sensors and utility meters can also benefit from the robustness and high measurement accuracy of the LPS33HW, points out ST. The 10bar pressure sensor can withstand being submerged up to 90 meters, and the very low RMS pressure noise of 0.008mbar allows apps like an altimeter, depth gauge, or weather monitor to deliver consistent and stable results. The sensor accuracy drifts by less than ±1mbar per year.
When soldered to a circuit board during product manufacture, the accuracy is affected by less than ±2mbar, and returns to normal after less than 72 hours – significantly quicker than similar water-resistant pressure sensors, claims ST.
The LPS33HW is in production now, in a 3.3 x 3.3 x 2.9mm cylindrical metal package suitable for use with O-ring seals.
http://www.st.com
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