SparkFun Triple Axis Accelerometer Breakout - ADXL345

Jargon buster

Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.

FIFO

FIFO stands for “first in, first out” and is a small memory buffer inside the sensor that stores recent readings in order. This matters because it can help capture motion data without the microcontroller needing to read the sensor every single instant.

Gravity

Gravity is DFRobot’s plug-in connector system for sensors, motors and modules, using standard cables to reduce loose jumper wiring. It matters because Gravity-compatible parts can connect directly to these ports, while non-Gravity parts may need adapters or manual wiring.

I2C

I2C is a two-wire communication bus used by many sensors and small modules. It matters because several I2C devices can share the same two wires, but each device needs a compatible address and your controller must support I2C.

LSB

Least significant bit is the smallest step a digital converter can represent. In a DAC, it tells you the tiniest voltage change the output can make at a given resolution and output range.

MEMS accelerometer

A tiny motion sensor made using micro-electromechanical systems technology that measures acceleration and tilt. In a compass module, it helps correct the heading when the board is not perfectly flat.

Power dissipation

Power dissipation is electrical energy being turned into heat inside a component. It matters because too much heat can reduce efficiency, affect reliability, or require a larger component or better cooling.

SPI

A fast serial communication bus often used for displays, memory cards, and sensors. It matters because SPI devices need specific pins for clock and data, plus a separate chip-select line for each device.