This article is about the ADXL335 module. Yes! you guess it right. It’s an accelerometer! An accelerometer is a device that senses vibrations and accelerations. An accelerometer senses the vibrations produced by the body and is used for the change of direction. And, therefore the accelerometer can be used as a vibration sensor for earthquake indications.
Overview of Module
The ADXL335 is a module that uses an analog input to measure acceleration in three dimensions: X, Y, and Z. As a result, it is employed in construction machines such as drilling machines. Also, in human sports devices such as running, walking, and so on. Thus, the module is also utilized to monitor earthquakes. Hence act as the vibration sensor.
Working of Module
The sensor is a micro-machined poly-silicon structure placed on top of a silicon wafer. Poly-silicon springs hold the structure in place on the wafer’s surface and give resistance to accelerating forces. A differential capacitor with separate fixed plates and plates attached to the moving mass is used to measure the structure’s deflection. 180 degrees out-of-phase square waves drive the fixed plates. The moving mass is deflected by acceleration, which causes the differential capacitor to imbalance, resulting in a sensor output whose amplitude is proportional to acceleration. The amplitude and direction of the acceleration are then determined using phase-sensitive demodulation algorithms.
Features and Specifications ADXL335
- Operating Voltage: 3V to 6V DC
- Operating Current: 350μA
- Sensing Range: ±3g
- 3-axis sensing
- High Sensitivity for slight movements
- Needs no external components
- Easy to use with Microcontrollers or even with normal Digital/Analog IC
- Small, cheap, and easily available
- Small, low-profile package
- 4 mm × 4 mm × 1.45 mm LFCSP
- Low power: 350 μA (typical)
- Single-supply operation: 1.8 V to 3.6 V
- 10,000 g shock survival
- Excellent temperature stability
- BW adjustment with a single capacitor per axis
- RoHS/WEEE lead-free compliant
Pinout of ADXL335 Module
| Pin Name | Description |
|---|---|
| VCC | The pin for powering the module requires 5V |
| GND | Common ground pin, Ground for supply |
| X | X-axis analog output pin |
| Y | Y-axis analog output pin |
| Z | Z-axis analog output pin |
| ST | Pin that controls self-test feature |
Applications
Earthquake Indication
An earthquake is a natural occurrence that is inescapable and unpredictable, and it frequently results in the loss of life and property. We won’t be able to stop it, but we can be vigilant and aware by utilizing technology to safeguard ourselves. And thus, this module helps there.
Alarm Circuits
ADXL33x accelerometer measures axial acceleration, detects the vibration, and then develops a signal. Thus, helps in various alarm applications.
