STMicroelectronics Free Fall Detection Solution for HDD Adopted on Fujitsu Siemens Notebooks

STMicroelectronics‘ complete free-fall detection solution that consists of a 3-axis motion sensor and software application has been chosen to protect the user’s data stored on hard-disk drives in the new ESPRIMO Mobile family of professional notebooks from Fujitsu Siemens Computers.

ST’s MEMS motion sensor instantly detects any abnormal movement of the PC and prompts the system to stop all reading and writing operations and to quickly move the magnetic head on the hard-disk drive to a safe position, before the laptop hits the ground.

Security, including data protection, is one of the hallmark features in Fujitsu Siemens Computers’ new ESPRIMO Mobile series of professional notebooks. Combining a micro-machined silicon sensor with an electronic interface and system software, ST’s free-fall detection solution helps secure sensitive data integrity, an ever-more important aspect of mobile computing in enterprise environments.

"We were looking for a motion sensor that is able to respond immediately to any significant changes in direction, speed and acceleration. ST’s MEMS accelerometers clearly represent a best-in-class combination of these elements," said Barbara D’Introno, Director Product Marketing Fujitsu Siemens Computers. "In addition to that, ST delivers a complete turn-key solution that has significantly reduced time-to-market for advanced hard disk drive data protection in our newest professional notebook family."

ST’s sensor meets stringent drop-test criteria required in portable electronic devices. Its innovative mechanical design provides very high immunity to vibration and a shock resistance up to 10,000g. The sensor provides acceleration values at a very low noise level with minimized power consumption, which is especially critical in battery-operated portable systems, such as smart phones, PDAs and laptops.

ST’s MEMS motion sensors target a wide array of applications in computer peripherals, consumer, telecommunications, and automotive markets.