MEMS and sensors

What does the sensor used in a smartphone's electronic compass detect?

  1. AThe direction of the Earth's magnetic field
  2. BAir pressure
  3. CAmbient brightness
Show answer and explanation

Answer: A. The direction of the Earth's magnetic field

An electronic compass measures the Earth's magnetic field along three axes with magnetic sensors such as Hall elements or magnetoresistive elements to determine heading. Combined with tilt from the accelerometer, it can calculate the correct heading however the device is held.

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More MEMS and sensors questions

  1. What can be estimated from changes in air pressure using a smartphone's MEMS pressure sensor?
  2. Why are SOI wafers often used in MEMS fabrication?
  3. What is the method called that bonds silicon and glass by applying voltage while heating, used for MEMS sealing and similar purposes?
  4. Which MEMS device is used to scan laser light in automotive LiDAR and similar systems?
  5. How can the resonant frequency of a MEMS structure consisting of a spring and a mass be raised?