November 12, 2019 by Luke James
The WSEN-PADS Pressure Sensor from Würth can be used with activatable integrated algorithms to reduce the programming workload for a connected controller.
The WSEN-PADS features the possibility of preparing measured data for various applications using activatable integrated algorithms. These work in such a way that greatly reduces not only the workload for a connected controller but the programming efforts required, too. This is a major benefit for designers and saves engineers valuable time, reducing time-to-market for electrical products.
The WSEN-PADS features a MEMS-based piezo-resistive sensing principle and 24-bit pressure output resolution. There is a selectable output data rate of up to 200 Hz, a 128-level FIFO buffer, an embedded temperature sensor, and an application-specific interrupt event setting. The WSEN-PADS pressure sensor can operate between a temperature range of -40 °C to +85 °C.
The WSEN-PADS pressure sensor. Image Credit: Würth Elektronik.
Measuring in at 2.0mm x 2.0mm x 0.8mm, the tiny sensor measures pressure in the range of 26 kPa to 126 kPa and its output data rate can be selected between 1 and 200 Hz. It contains an application-specific integrated circuit which, along with the temperature sensor, automatically calibrates output values. Data that is measured can be read via a standard I2C interface which is extended by an additional interrupt pin. This can be altered by the end-user.
The WSEN-PADS pressure sensor has been designed for use in and with a wide variety of products and potential applications. One of the sensor’s stand out applications is as an altimeter—with its high resolution, the sensor can provide information that enables the mapping of individual floors in buildings. This means that the sensor could support an indoor navigation system in a smart building, for example.
Other potential applications and use cases include weather stations, white goods, wearable devices, consumer electronics, indoor navigation, and GPS navigation. This list is not exhaustive, though; its super slim and lightweight portfolio makes it ideal for use in virtually any type of product or application, industrial or commercial.
