OS3D – Orientation Sensor

Key Specifications
  • Azimuth accuracy:
  • Pitch/Roll accuracy:
  • Max update rate:
  • Gyro dynamic range:
  • Accel dynamic range:
  • 1° RMS
  • 0.2° RMS
  • 500 Hz
  • ±1200°/sec
  • ±2 or 6 g

The world's smallest fully embedded absolute orientation sensor measuring just 0.4in3, Inertial Labs OS3D (aka OSv3) combines sensor technologies of magnetometers, gyroscopes, and accelerometers to measure absolute orientation of any object. Its internal microcontroller processes the data from nine discrete sensing axes and produces a quaternion orientation solution that is then provided over a standard RS-485 data bus.

By using RS-485, the OS3Dis able to be daisy-chained allowing for the use of multiple sensors simultaneously. This combined with its dynamic range and small size makes OSv3 ideal for human motion sensing applications that can require the tracking of multiple body segments or even a full body.


In addition to the sensor module itself Inertial Labs has a complete set of OS3D accessories available to support a wide variety of possible applications. Some of the more critical accessories include:

1)   Wireless Sensor Bus Control Unit (SB-CU-W915)

The sensor bus wireless controller transmits data at 915 MHz wirelessly to a USB receiver located at the PC. It supports up to 32 connected devices andalso provides power to the entire sensor bus.

2)   USB Sensor Bus Control Unit (SB-CU-USB)

The sensor bus USB controller provides the ability to connect three sensor chains totaling >20 sensors directly to the PC via an RS485-to-USB converter.  Additionally power is provided out to the sensor bus.

3)   Sensor Bus Extender (SB-Extender)

Inertial Labs sensor bus extenders allow for the addition of external devices to be added to the OS3D sensor bus. Switches, joystick controls, RFID tags, and RS232 devices can all be integrated seamlessly.

4)   Sensor Bus Splitter (SB-Splitter)

The sensor bus splitter allows for the connection of three unique sensor chains that are then output through a single cable.  This allows for flexibility in the routing of sensors for certain applications.

Key Features and Functionality

  • Real-time, zero latency 3DOF orientation tracking
  • Compensated raw data for acceleration, rate of turn, and magnetic field
  • Up to 500Hz data update rate
  • Full temperature calibration of all sensing elements
  • Internal magnetic disturbance calibration capabilities
  • Dynamic magnetic disturbance compensation
  • Customizable sensor parameters
  • Ability to string sensors together
  • Full featured software SDK
  • PC-based emulator for replacing leading sensors in existing applications
  • Extremely compact design

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