STMicroelectronics LIS3L02AQ5

Overview

LIS3L02AQ from STMicroelectronics is a low-power, three-axis analog-output linear accelerometer with user-selectable ±2g/±6g full-scale range, 0.5 mg resolution over 100 Hz bandwidth, ratiometric output voltage (Voutx/Vouty/Voutz), and embedded self-test functionality. It operates from 2.4 V to 3.6 V and is specified for -40°C to +85°C, deployed in motion-activated mobile terminals and free-fall data protection systems.

For engineers reviewing the LIS3L02AQ datasheet, LIS3L02AQ pinout, LIS3L02AQ application, or LIS3L02AQ equivalent, key selection considerations include its QFN-44 package footprint, ratiometric sensitivity (Vdd/5 V/g at 2g), zero-g offset drift (±1.5 mg/°C), self-test logic interface (ST pin), and power-down mode (PD pin) enabling sub-5 µA standby current.

Technical Context

The LIS3L02AQ integrates a THELMA-process silicon MEMS sensing element with a CMOS IC interface featuring correlated double sampling (CDS) to suppress 1/f noise and offset. Its fully differential signal chain includes three independent sample-and-hold (S&H) circuits operating at 66 kHz, supporting analog outputs for X, Y, and Z axes with separate rout (110 kΩ typ.) and Cload (320 pF max) drive capability.

Bandwidth is configurable via external capacitance (f_bw = 1/(2π·110 kΩ·C_load)), delivering 4.0 kHz for X/Y and 2.5 kHz for Z axis. Factory-trimmed non-volatile parameters ensure calibrated offset and sensitivity without end-user calibration, while ratiometric behavior ties Voff and So directly to Vdd for ADC compatibility.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: QFN-44 (7 mm × 7 mm × 1.8 mm, exposed thermal pad), RoHS-compliant surface-mount package with 0.5 mm pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 3-axis analog accelerometer applications.

Compared with ADXL335 and LIS331DLH, the LIS3L02AQ uniquely balances analog simplicity, selectable full-scale, and built-in self-test in a single QFN-44 package-making it optimal for legacy analog designs requiring field-verifiable sensor integrity without protocol overhead.

Availability

LIS3L02AQ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motion-activated mobile terminals, free-fall data protection systems, gaming input devices, and appliance control applications requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for LIS3L02AQ includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing analog, MEMS, power, and microcontroller solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The LIS3L02AQ belongs to ST's legacy inertial sensor family targeting cost-sensitive, analog-interface applications where robustness, ratiometric accuracy, and self-test verification are prioritized over digital features.

FAQ

What is the function of the FS pin on the LIS3L02AQ?

The FS (Full-Scale) pin selects the measurement range: logic low (≤0.8 V) configures ±2 g full-scale, while logic high (≥2.2 V) selects ±6 g. This changes internal gain and affects sensitivity (Vdd/5 V/g at 2g, Vdd/15 V/g at 6g) and noise floor, allowing optimization for either precision tilt sensing or high-g shock detection.

How does the self-test feature work electrically?

When ST pin is driven high, an electrostatic force is applied to the MEMS proof mass, inducing a known displacement. This produces a measurable delta voltage at Voutx/y/z: −40 mV (X), +40 mV (Y), +50 mV (Z) at 2g range and 3.3 V supply. The output shift is cubic with Vdd and reduces by ⅓ at 6g range, enabling functional verification without mechanical stimulus.

Can the LIS3L02AQ operate from a 2.5 V supply?

Yes - the LIS3L02AQ is fully specified for 2.4 V to 3.6 V operation. At 2.5 V, sensitivity scales ratiometrically (e.g., ~0.5 V/g at 2g), zero-g offset centers near 1.25 V ±10%, and supply current remains ≤1.5 mA. All electrical characteristics including bandwidth and noise density remain valid within this range.

Is the exposed thermal pad on the QFN-44 package required to be grounded?

Yes - the exposed pad (EPAD) must be soldered to a PCB ground plane for thermal dissipation and electrical stability. STMicroelectronics recommends connecting it directly to GND via multiple vias to minimize thermal resistance and reduce noise coupling into analog outputs, especially critical for low-noise 0.5 mg resolution performance.