3-Axis Accelerometer Module GY-521 MPU-6050

Overview

The 3-Axis Accelerometer Module GY-521, powered by the MPU-6050 sensor, combines a 3-axis accelerometer and a 3-axis gyroscope in a compact, high-performance package. Designed for developers, hobbyists, and professionals, this module delivers reliable motion tracking, orientation sensing, and rotational measurement for a wide range of applications including drones, robotics, wearable devices, gaming, and motion capture.

Key Features

Integrated 6-Axis Motion Sensing

• 3-axis accelerometer for linear acceleration and orientation detection.
• 3-axis gyroscope for rotational velocity and angular movement tracking.

Performance and Precision

• 16-bit ADCs on each channel for high-resolution data and stable readings.
• Digital Motion Processor (DMP) to offload sensor fusion and complex calculations from the host MCU, improving responsiveness and reducing CPU load.

Form Factor and Power

• Compact PCB: 20mm x 16mm footprint and weighs approximately 0.5 grams.
• Wide operating voltage: 3.3V to 5V, compatible with most development boards.

Communication and Control

• I2C interface (up to 400 kHz) with selectable address pins to avoid bus conflicts.
• Configurable interrupts for motion detection and event-driven designs.
• Integrated temperature sensor for monitoring module conditions (range: -40°C to +85°C).

Technical Specifications

• Sensor: MPU-6050
• Axes: 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis gyroscope (6-axis total)
• ADC resolution: 16-bit
• Operating voltage: 3.3V to 5V
• Communication: I2C (up to 400 kHz)
• Dimensions: 20mm x 16mm
• Weight: 0.5 grams
• Temperature sensor range: -40°C to +85°C
• Accelerometer ranges: ±2g, ±4g, ±8g, ±16g
• Gyroscope ranges: ±250, ±500, ±1000, ±2000 degrees/sec

Applications

• Drones and UAVs: Flight stabilization, attitude estimation, and navigation assistance.
• Robotics: Motion control, balance, and feedback for mobile robots and manipulators.
• Wearable technology: Activity tracking, posture detection, and gesture recognition in fitness devices and health monitors.
• Gaming and VR: Motion input for controllers and immersive systems.
• Motion capture: Precise movement tracking for animation, sports analysis, and research.

Integration and Setup Tips

• Use the I2C SDA and SCL pins to connect to most microcontrollers; power the module with 3.3V–5V depending on your host board.
• Select the appropriate accelerometer and gyroscope full-scale ranges in software to balance sensitivity and dynamic range for your application.
• Enable the DMP when available to perform onboard sensor fusion for accurate orientation (quaternions) without heavy CPU load.
• Calibrate gyroscope bias and accelerometer offsets at startup to improve long-term accuracy.

Why Choose the GY-521 MPU-6050 Module?

The GY-521 MPU-6050 module is a proven, cost-effective motion sensor offering a rich feature set: high-resolution 16-bit ADCs, an onboard DMP, flexible I2C connectivity, and a tiny footprint. These features make it an excellent choice for any project that requires precise motion sensing with minimal integration effort.

Compatibility and Notes

• Compatible with common development platforms such as Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and other microcontrollers with I2C support.
• Software libraries and example code for the MPU-6050 are widely available to accelerate prototyping.
• Note: Product images are for illustration only. Actual board layout and color may vary slightly.