SparkFun ESP32 Thing Motion Shield

The SparkFun ESP32 Thing Motion Shield is a multifunctional, motion-detecting accessory for the ESP32 Thing. The shield's built-in LSM9DS1 IMU allows for the easy detection of minute movements. It also supports the addition of a GPS module through a large JST port for detecting larger movements and distance traveled. Additionally, the motion shield features breakout pins for attaching any serial device and a microSD card slot for data logging. It only requires soldering on headers to be ready for use.

The LSM9DS1 is a unique IC that can measure three key properties of motion: angular velocity, acceleration, and heading. It measures these properties in three dimensions, providing nine pieces of data: acceleration in x/y/z, angular rotation in x/y/z, and magnetic force in x/y/z. This comprehensive data collection allows for a detailed understanding of an object’s movement and orientation.

The sensors in the LSM9DS1 on the Thing Motion Shield support a wide range of measurements. The accelerometer’s scale can be adjusted to ± 2, 4, 8, or 16 g; the gyroscope supports ± 245, 500, and 2000 °/s; and the magnetometer has full-scale ranges of ± 4, 8, 12, or 16 gauss.

Features of the SparkFun ESP32 Thing Motion Shield include:

• 3 acceleration channels, 3 angular rate channels, 3 magnetic field channels
• Linear acceleration full scale of ±2/±4/±8/±16 g
• Magnetic full scale of ±4/±8/±12/±16 gauss
• Angular rate full scale of ±245/±500/±2000 dps
• SPI / I²C serial interfaces
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• microSD Card Slot
• JST Connector for GPS UART

For more information and guides on how to use the SparkFun ESP32 Thing Motion Shield, please refer to the following documents and resources:

• Schematic
• Eagle Files
• Hookup Guide
• Datasheet (LSM9DS1)
• GitHub