Overview
The Honeywell HMC5883L is a surface-mount, multi-chip module designed for low-field magnetic sensing with a digital interface. It is particularly suited for applications such as low-cost compassing and magnetometry. The HMC5883L integrates Honeywell’s state-of-the-art, high-resolution HMC118X series magneto-resistive sensors along with an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) that includes amplification, automatic degaussing strap drivers, offset cancellation, and a 12-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC). This combination enables the HMC5883L to achieve a compass heading accuracy of 1° to 2°. The module communicates via the I2C serial bus, making it easy to interface with microcontrollers and other devices.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Min | Typ | Max | Units |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 2.16 | - | 3.6 | V |
| Supply Voltage (VDDIO) | 1.71 | - | 3.6 | V |
| Average Current Draw (Idle Mode) | - | - | 130 μA | μA |
| Operating Temperature | -30 | - | 85 | °C |
| Storage Temperature | -40 | - | 125 | °C |
| Magnetic Field Range | -8 | - | 8 | Gauss |
| Sensitivity | - | ±0.88 mG per digit | - | mG/digit |
| Data Output Rate | 0.75 | - | 160 | Hz |
| Package Size | 2.85 x 3.00 x 0.9 | - | 3.15 x 3.15 x 1.0 | mm |
Key Features
- Anisotropic Magneto-Resistive (AMR) Technology: Provides precision in-axis sensitivity and linearity, offering advantages over other magnetic sensor technologies.
- 12-bit ADC and High Accuracy: Enables 1° to 2° compass heading accuracy.
- I2C Digital Interface: Allows for easy communication with microcontrollers and other devices.
- Automatic Degaussing and Offset Cancellation: Ensures reliable and accurate compass readings.
- Fast Data Output Rate: Up to 160 Hz, suitable for applications requiring high-speed data.
- Lead-Free and RoHS Compliance: Environmentally friendly and compliant with regulatory standards.
- Software and Algorithm Support: Available libraries for compassing heading, hard iron, soft iron, and auto calibration.
Applications
- Mobile Devices and Consumer Electronics: Used in mobile phones, netbooks, and other consumer electronics for navigation and orientation.
- Auto Navigation Systems: Enhances directional accuracy in automotive systems, including autonomous vehicle technology.
- Personal Navigation Devices: Improves reliability and user experience in personal navigation devices.
- Robotics and UAVs: Aids in navigation, obstacle avoidance, and stability in robotic systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
- Scientific Instruments and Geolocation Services: Useful in various scientific instruments and for geolocation services, especially where traditional GPS is less effective.
Q & A
- What is the primary function of the HMC5883L?
The HMC5883L is a 3-axis digital compass IC designed for low-field magnetic sensing and magnetometry, providing accurate compass heading and magnetic field measurements.
- What is the accuracy of the HMC5883L compass heading?
The HMC5883L achieves a compass heading accuracy of 1° to 2°.
- What communication protocol does the HMC5883L use?
The HMC5883L uses the I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) serial bus for communication.
- What is the magnetic field range of the HMC5883L?
The HMC5883L measures magnetic fields in the range of -8 to +8 Gauss.
- What is the maximum data output rate of the HMC5883L?
The HMC5883L can output data at a maximum rate of 160 Hz.
- Is the HMC5883L RoHS compliant?
Yes, the HMC5883L is lead-free and RoHS compliant.
- What are the typical applications of the HMC5883L?
The HMC5883L is used in mobile devices, auto navigation systems, personal navigation devices, robotics, UAVs, and various scientific instruments.
- What technology does the HMC5883L use for magnetic sensing?
The HMC5883L uses Honeywell’s Anisotropic Magneto-Resistive (AMR) technology.
- How does the HMC5883L handle automatic degaussing and offset cancellation?
The HMC5883L includes an ASIC with automatic degaussing strap drivers and offset cancellation to ensure reliable and accurate compass readings.
- Is software support available for the HMC5883L?
Yes, software and algorithm support, including libraries for compassing heading, hard iron, soft iron, and auto calibration, are available for the HMC5883L.
