MEMS and sensors

What is the operating principle of the DMD (digital micromirror device) used in projectors?

  1. ABlocking light by changing the orientation of liquid crystal molecules
  2. BIndividually switching the tilt of many tiny mirrors to control the direction of light
  3. CMaking organic material emit light at each pixel
Show answer and explanation

Answer: B. Individually switching the tilt of many tiny mirrors to control the direction of light

A DMD is a MEMS device with as many micromirrors, each a few µm square, as there are pixels. Each mirror's tilt is switched rapidly by electrostatic force to direct light toward or away from the screen, and brightness is expressed by the fraction of time each mirror is on.

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More MEMS and sensors questions

  1. What is the general ink ejection method of inkjet printer heads made with MEMS technology?
  2. Which phenomenon do BAW filters, used as RF filters in smartphones and similar devices, use?
  3. What is the main reason for sealing the moving parts of MEMS gyroscopes and similar devices in vacuum?
  4. What is the phenomenon called in which tiny moving parts stick to the substrate due to surface tension or similar forces during MEMS fabrication or use, and stop moving?
  5. What is the detection principle of semiconductor gas sensors using tin oxide or similar materials?