Murata Introduces SCH16T-K30 IMU with 180 g Vibration Saturation Limit

Murata Manufacturing has expanded its SCH16T series of high-performance inertial measurement units (IMUs) with the introduction of the SCH16T-K30, a high-dynamic-range variant designed for industrial applications where high-amplitude vibration or rapid movement can cause sensor saturation.

The new sensor combines a three-axis gyroscope and three-axis accelerometer in a single six-axis IMU. Target applications include excavators, heavy machinery control and survey poles, where the SCH16T-K30 can operate without clipping under the intended conditions.

Increased Vibration Damping and Gyroscope Range

Murata has developed the SCH16T-K30 with a new accelerometer MEMS featuring increased damping characteristics compared with standard SCH16T variants. The accelerometer is designed to attenuate unwanted vibration at frequencies above 200 Hz, helping prevent sensor saturation in high-vibration environments.

Based on Murata's 3D MEMS technology, the sensor has a high saturation limit of 180 g at 1,000 Hz. Murata has also extended the gyroscope measurement range from ±300°/s in the SCH16T-K01 and SCH16T-K20 to ±490°/s.

The SCH16T-K30 has a typical gyroscope noise density of 0.0004 (°/s)/√Hz, typical gyroscope bias instability of 0.3°/h and typical accelerometer noise density of 80 µg/√Hz.

Industrial Applications and Compatibility

The SCH16T-K30 operates from a 3.0–3.6 V supply and has an operating temperature range of −40°C to +110°C. Its performance has been validated using a test set based on AEC-Q100 Grade 1 operating temperature standards.

The sensor is housed in an 11.8 × 13.4 × 2.9 mm package and includes self-diagnostic features for industrial applications. It also maintains software and pin-to-pin compatibility across the SCH16T series.

Samples of the SCH16T-K30 are available now, with mass production scheduled to begin at the end of 2026.

Learn more and read the original announcement at murata.com.

Technology Overview

The Murata SCH16T-K30 is a six-axis inertial measurement unit combining a three-axis gyroscope and three-axis accelerometer for high-vibration industrial applications. Its accelerometer MEMS incorporates increased damping above 200 Hz, with a saturation limit of 180 g at 1,000 Hz. The gyroscope offers a ±490°/s measurement range, compared with ±300°/s on the SCH16T-K01 and SCH16T-K20. The device operates from 3.0–3.6 V and maintains software and pin-to-pin compatibility across the SCH16T series.

FAQs

What is the Murata SCH16T-K30 designed for?

The SCH16T-K30 is designed for industrial equipment exposed to strong vibration or rapid movement, including excavators, heavy machinery control systems and survey poles.

How does the SCH16T-K30 differ from earlier SCH16T variants?

The SCH16T-K30 incorporates a new accelerometer MEMS with increased vibration damping above 200 Hz and a saturation limit of 180 g at 1,000 Hz. It also increases the gyroscope measurement range from ±300°/s to ±490°/s.

Is the SCH16T-K30 compatible with other SCH16T sensors?

Yes. Murata states that the SCH16T-K30 maintains software and pin-to-pin compatibility across the SCH16T series. It operates from a 3.0–3.6 V supply and comes in an 11.8 × 13.4 × 2.9 mm package.