STMicroelectronics has introduced two advanced six-axis inertial measurement units (IMUs), the LSM6DSK320X and ISM6HGK256X, designed to deliver precise motion sensing, reliable event detection and enhanced vibration immunity while meeting stringent sustainable-materials requirements.
The new sensors target consumer applications, including fitness trackers and smart tags, as well as industrial asset monitoring, robotics and drones used for photography and agricultural surveying. Both products form part of ST’s Sustainable Technology initiative, supporting responsible product development.
The IMUs feature a super-symmetric gyroscope architecture that reduces the effects of external vibrations and shocks, improving sensing accuracy for applications requiring precise event reconstruction. Their dual-accelerometer design simultaneously captures low-range disturbances up to ±16 g and high-impact events up to ±320 g, avoiding measurement interruptions associated with switching between acceleration ranges.
These capabilities support applications such as accident detection, tool-usage monitoring, sports-performance analysis, robot teaching, drone stabilisation and structural-condition monitoring. The sensors also integrate ST’s machine-learning core (MLC), enabling on-sensor processing to reduce system power consumption and computational demands.
“By maximising signal strength and resilience in an extremely compact form factor, our latest six-axis motion sensors enable powerful new features in smart applications,” said Simone Ferri, Executive Vice President, MEMS Sub-Group, STMicroelectronics. “Their compliance with sustainable-materials requirements, including BPA-free and lead-free standards, also helps developers address evolving environmental and regulatory expectations.”
The LSM6DSK320X has received positive feedback from drone technology developers. Jay Blackman, Leader at Betaflight, highlighted its vibration immunity, while Dr Zebo Zhou, Chief Technology Officer at Tianhe (Chengdu), cited its low noise, high dynamic range, compact size and power efficiency as key advantages for unmanned aerial vehicles.
Both sensors are supported by the ST MEMS Studio development environment, with additional software libraries for motion analysis, sensor fusion and context awareness. Evaluation adapter boards are expected to be available through ST’s eSTore and distributors by November 2026.
Housed in compact 2.5 mm × 3 mm × 0.83 mm packages, the LSM6DSK320X operates from −40°C to +85°C. The industrial-grade ISM6HGK256X supports −40°C to +105°C and is covered by ST’s 10-year longevity programme.
The LSM6DSK320X is priced from US$4.60 per unit, while the ISM6HGK256X starts at US$5.10 per unit, based on orders of 1,000 pieces.