MMA7361 3-Axis Analog Accelerometer and Angle Sensor Module (±1.5g/±6g)

The MMA7361 is a compact 3-axis analog accelerometer module designed to measure acceleration and tilt angle in embedded systems, robotics, and motion-sensing applications. Built around the Freescale/NXP MMA7361L triple-axis low-g micromachined accelerometer, this module provides three analog voltage outputs (X, Y, and Z) that correspond to acceleration along each axis, making it straightforward to interface with any microcontroller that includes an analog-to-digital converter. The module supports two user-selectable measurement ranges — ±1.5g and ±6g — allowing designers to trade sensitivity for dynamic range depending on the application.

In the ±1.5g range, the MMA7361 delivers a high sensitivity of 800 mV/g, which is well suited for precise tilt and inclination measurements. Switching to the ±6g range reduces sensitivity but extends the measurable acceleration, making it appropriate for more dynamic motion and vibration sensing. The module also includes a 0g-detect feature that can be used for freefall detection, a sleep mode that reduces current consumption to approximately 3 µA, and an onboard low-pass filter for signal conditioning. The sensor is factory-calibrated for sensitivity, simplifying integration and reducing the need for external calibration circuitry.

The module operates from a 3.3V or 5V supply, with an onboard regulator that allows it to accept 5V input while the accelerometer itself operates at 3.3V. Typical operating current is 400 µA, making the module suitable for battery-powered and portable devices. With dimensions of approximately 28mm × 17mm and a standard 0.1-inch pin header, the MMA7361 module is compatible with breadboards and common development platforms including Arduino, STM32, and other microcontroller boards. Typical applications include 3D gaming and motion-based interfaces, laptop freefall detection, mobile device screen rotation and text scrolling, orientation sensing, and robot motion detection.