**High-Precision Dual-Axis Measurement with the ADXL203CE Accelerometer**

The pursuit of high-precision motion sensing is fundamental in applications ranging from industrial instrumentation to aerospace navigation. Central to this capability is the accelerometer, a device that measures proper acceleration. Among the available options, the **ADXL203CE from Analog Devices** stands out as a premier solution for high-accuracy, dual-axis measurement. This article explores the key features and applications that make this device an exceptional choice for engineers.

At its core, the ADXL203CE is a complete, low-power, dual-axis accelerometer fabricated on a single monolithic IC. It measures acceleration with a full-scale range of ±1.7 g, which is ideal for measuring tilt, inclination, and low-g motion. Its most significant attribute is its **exceptional measurement precision and stability**. The device boasts a typical noise floor of 110 µg/√Hz, enabling it to detect extremely subtle changes in acceleration. This high resolution is critical for applications where minute movements must be captured and analyzed.

A key factor contributing to this precision is the sensor's internal architecture. The ADXL203CE utilizes a **surface-micromachined polysilicon structure** built on top of the silicon wafer. This structure behaves like a set of differential capacitors; acceleration causes a movement in the structure, unbalancing the capacitors and resulting in a sensor output whose amplitude is proportional to the acceleration. This analog output is then available at the XOUT and YOUT pins.

Furthermore, the device includes dedicated **on-chip precision voltage regulators** that maximize supply noise rejection. This is a vital feature, as it ensures stable performance even when powered from noisy digital supply rails commonly found in complex systems. The accelerometer's output is ratiometric to the supply voltage, simplifying interface with analog-to-digital converters (ADCs).

For system designers, the ADXL203CE offers significant flexibility. The bandwidth of the device—and therefore its noise characteristics and resolution—can be user-defined by adding external capacitors (Cx and Cy) at the XOUT and YOUT pins. This allows engineers to tailor the bandwidth from 0.5 Hz to approximately 2.5 kHz, creating a perfect trade-off between low-noise (narrow bandwidth) and fast response (wide bandwidth) for their specific application.

Typical applications that benefit from the ADXL203CE's high precision include:

* **Tilt Sensing and Inclination Measurement:** In construction equipment and platform leveling systems.

* **Structural Health Monitoring:** Detecting tiny vibrations or shifts in bridges and buildings.

* **Navigation and Guidance Systems:** Providing stable acceleration data for dead reckoning in GPS-denied environments.

* **High-Reliability Industrial Equipment:** For condition monitoring and predictive maintenance of machinery.

ICGOOODFIND: The ADXL203CE accelerometer is a **highly integrated, precision analog sensor** that delivers outstanding performance for low-frequency, low-g measurements. Its combination of low noise, excellent stability, and design flexibility makes it an indispensable component for engineers tackling the most demanding motion-sensing challenges.

**Keywords:** High-Precision, Dual-Axis Accelerometer, Low Noise, Tilt Sensing, Structural Monitoring