How to Use Adafruit ADXL377: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Adafruit ADXL377 is a high-resolution, low-power, 3-axis accelerometer module capable of measuring acceleration up to ±200g. This makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications, including tilt sensing, impact detection, and motion control in both consumer electronics and industrial systems. Its high-g range allows it to be used in environments with extreme dynamic motion, such as sports equipment or vehicle crash analysis.

• Measurement Range: ±200g on all three axes (X, Y, Z)
• Resolution: High resolution at low noise
• Supply Voltage: 3.3V to 5V
• Output: Analog voltage output for each axis
• Bandwidth: Selectable between 100Hz and 1kHz
• Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C

To use the ADXL377 in a circuit:

1. Connect the VCC pin to a 3.3V or 5V power supply.
2. Connect the GND pin to the ground of the power supply.
3. Connect the X-OUT, Y-OUT, and Z-OUT pins to the analog inputs of a microcontroller, such as an Arduino UNO, to read the acceleration values.

• Use a clean and stable power supply to minimize noise in the acceleration readings.
• Keep the analog signal paths as short as possible to reduce susceptibility to electromagnetic interference.
• Apply proper filtering techniques to the output signals to improve measurement accuracy.
• Secure the module firmly to the object whose acceleration is being measured to ensure accurate readings.

// Include the Arduino core library
#include <Arduino.h>

// Define the analog pins connected to the accelerometer outputs
const int xPin = A0;
const int yPin = A1;
const int zPin = A2;

void setup() {
  // Initialize serial communication at 9600 baud rate
  Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  // Read the raw values from the accelerometer
  int xRaw = analogRead(xPin);
  int yRaw = analogRead(yPin);
  int zRaw = analogRead(zPin);

  // Convert the raw values to 'g' values
  // Assuming a 5V supply, 1g is approximately 0.33V or 67.5 on a 10-bit ADC
  float xG = (xRaw - 512) / 67.5;
  float yG = (yRaw - 512) / 67.5;
  float zG = (zRaw - 512) / 67.5;

  // Print the acceleration values in 'g' for each axis
  Serial.print("X: ");
  Serial.print(xG);
  Serial.print("g, Y: ");
  Serial.print(yG);
  Serial.print("g, Z: ");
  Serial.print(zG);
  Serial.println("g");

  // Delay for a short period to avoid spamming the serial output
  delay(100);
}

• Inaccurate Readings: Ensure that the power supply is stable and that the accelerometer is securely mounted.
• No Output Signal: Check the connections to the analog pins and verify that the power supply is within the specified range.
• Noise in Signal: Keep the analog signal paths short and consider using shielded cables.

Q: Can the ADXL377 be used with a 3.3V system? A: Yes, the ADXL377 can operate with a supply voltage from 3.3V to 5V.

Q: How can I calibrate the accelerometer? A: Calibration involves taking readings at known orientations and adjusting the output to match the expected 'g' values.

Q: What is the purpose of the SELF_TEST pin? A: The SELF_TEST pin is used to verify the functionality of the accelerometer by producing a known output signal.

For further assistance, consult the Adafruit ADXL377 datasheet and application notes provided by the manufacturer.