How to Use SparkFun Triple Axis Accelerometer Breakout - ADXL362: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SparkFun Triple Axis Accelerometer Breakout - ADXL362 is an ultra-low-power, 3-axis MEMS accelerometer that offers high resolution (12-bit) measurement at up to ±8g. Digital output data is formatted as 16-bit twos complement and is accessible through either a SPI (3- or 4-wire) or I2C digital interface.

Common Applications:

• Motion-activated functions
• Impact and vibration monitoring
• Fitness and health tracking devices
• Gaming and pointing devices
• Industrial monitoring

• Voltage Supply: 1.6V to 3.5V
• Current Consumption: 2 µA at 100 Hz output data rate
• Measurement Range: ±2g, ±4g, ±8g (selectable)
• Output Data Rate: 12.5 Hz to 400 Hz
• Communication: SPI (3- or 4-wire) and I2C
• Sensitivity: 1 mg/LSB
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C

1. Powering the Device: Connect VCC to a power supply between 1.6V and 3.5V and GND to the ground.
2. Communication: Choose between SPI or I2C for communication. For SPI, use SCL/CS, SDA/SDI, and SDO pins. For I2C, use SCL/CS and SDA/SDI pins.
3. Interrupts: INT1 and INT2 can be configured to trigger on various events such as motion detection or free-fall.

• Use decoupling capacitors close to the power pins to minimize power supply noise.
• Ensure that the SPI or I2C bus lines have pull-up resistors if required.
• Avoid physical shock and vibration during operation as it may affect the readings.

#include <SPI.h>
#include <ADXL362.h>

ADXL362 xl;

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  SPI.begin();
  
  xl.begin(10); // SPI Chip Select Pin
  xl.beginMeasure(); 
}

void loop() {
  int x, y, z;
  
  xl.readXYZTData(x, y, z, temperature); // Read acceleration data
  Serial.print("X: "); Serial.print(x);
  Serial.print(" Y: "); Serial.print(y);
  Serial.print(" Z: "); Serial.println(z);
  
  delay(100); // Adjust the delay as per the required output data rate
}

Note: Before using the code, ensure that the ADXL362 library is installed in your Arduino IDE.

• No Data Output: Check connections and ensure that the correct communication protocol (SPI or I2C) is selected.
• Inaccurate Readings: Verify that the accelerometer is properly calibrated and that there are no vibrations affecting the sensor.
• High Power Consumption: Ensure that the device is not in measurement mode when not in use.

• Double-check wiring, especially the power supply and ground connections.
• Use the xl.beginMeasure(); function to start measurement mode.
• Implement proper error handling in your code to detect and respond to communication failures.

Q: Can the ADXL362 operate at 5V? A: No, the ADXL362 is designed to operate between 1.6V and 3.5V.

Q: How can I change the measurement range? A: Use the library functions to set the measurement range to ±2g, ±4g, or ±8g as needed.

Q: What is the purpose of the INT1 and INT2 pins? A: These pins can be configured to output interrupt signals for events like activity, inactivity, or free-fall detection.

For further assistance, consult the ADXL362 datasheet and the SparkFun ADXL362 library documentation.