Magnetometer
The magnetometer in your smartphone measures the strength of earth’s magnetic field. The magnetometer is enclosed in a small electronic chip that often incorporates another sensor (typically a built in…
Proximity
Today, mobile phones use IR-based proximity sensors to detect the presence of a human ear. This sensing is done for two purposes: to reduce display power consumption by turning off…
Barometer
Traditionally, barometers have been used to detect—and predict—short term changes in weather. Measured drops in pressure indicate rain is on the way. Sharply rising pressure signals clearer skies are ahead….
Accelerometer
Typical accelerometers are made up of multiple axes, two to determine most two-dimensional movement with the option of a third for 3D positioning. Most smartphones typically make use of three-axis…