This section provides an overview for electronic compasses as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 10 electronic compass manufacturers and their company rankings.
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An electronic compass, as the name implies, is an electric compass. While an ordinary compass uses a magnetic needle to determine the direction of north, an electronic compass has a built-in magnetic sensor that detects the very weak geomagnetic field flowing through the earth, and this sensor enables the compass to detect the direction of north.
Electronic compasses are available in 2-axis and 3-axis types, with the 2-axis type requiring the electronic compass itself to be at a parallel angle to the earth's surface to calculate an accurate heading, while the 3-axis type can determine an accurate heading regardless of the angle of the electronic compass itself.
Electronic compasses are used in a number of devices, most notably cell phones (smartphones). Compass and navigation applications built into cell phones use the heading data provided by the electronic compass.
Of course, an electronic compass is also used for navigation in cars, airplanes, ships, etc., and provides directional data to applications and devices that require directional data.
Electronic compasses are equipped with a built-in magnetometer, which detects the earth's geomagnetic field and provides a compass heading. Electronic compasses are available in 2-axis and 3-axis types. The 3-axis type is capable of obtaining an accurate azimuth even when the magnetometer (electronic compass) is tilted. Some electronic compasses are equipped with a 3-axis magnetic sensor and a 3-axis acceleration sensor. This type of electronic compass uses data from the acceleration sensor to compensate for the tilt of the electronic compass and provides a more accurate azimuth.
There are many types of magnetic sensors, but the most common type of magnetic sensor used in electronic compasses for cell phones is the Hall element type magnetic sensor. Hall elements are also used in non-contact switches.
Other types of geomagnetic sensors include magnetoresistive elements, such as SMRs (semiconductor magneto resistive).
*Including some distributors, etc.
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ST Micro Electronics is a global semiconductor company serving customers with innovations to have a positive impact on people's lives. Their product line is micro electronic systems, such as switches, controllers, sensors and drivers. The main selling point of ST Micro Electronics is its provision of sustainable products, and introducing their electronics to create a more sustainable world. The company, as well as providing the electronic devices, also provides software and support, ensuring that all fields are covered to provide a fully provide a supported and strong relationship with their customer base. ST Micro Electronics believe that technology plays a key role in helping to solve environmental and social challenges, which is why their semiconductor technologies start with their employees, their customers and partners.
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