What Is the ADXL345? 3-Axis Accelerometer: Specs and Uses
The ADXL345 is a 3-axis digital accelerometer. It communicates over I2C (0x53) or SPI; it offers a selectable ±2/4/8/16 g range, 13-bit resolution and tap/free-fall detection. It is used for tilt/angle, motion/impact and vibration measurement. Its difference from the MPU6050: no gyroscope (accelerometer only); the chip is 3.3 V.
The ADXL345 is a 3-axis digital accelerometer. It communicates over I2C or SPI and offers a selectable range (±2/4/8/16 g) plus features like tap and free-fall detection. For the concept, see what is an accelerometer.
What is the ADXL345 used for?
Tilt/angle sensing, motion/impact detection, step counting, gesture and vibration measurement. Its difference from the MPU6050: it has no gyroscope (accelerometer only), but it is low-power and offers built-in motion detection (tap, free-fall).
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Axes | 3 (accelerometer) |
| Interface | I2C (0x53) or SPI |
| Range | ±2/±4/±8/±16 g (selectable) |
| Resolution | 13-bit |
| Supply | 2.0–3.6 V (chip); a module may have a regulator |
Limitations
- No gyroscope/magnetometer → for full orientation use a 6/9-axis part (MPU6050/MPU9250).
- The chip is 3.3 V; do not apply 5 V (unless the module is regulated).
Equivalents
- MPU6050: accel + gyro (6-axis).
- ADXL335: 3-axis with analog output.
- LIS3DH: a low-power 3-axis.
Find it in our catalog
Use the ADXL345 search.