What Is the MPU9250? 9-Axis IMU Sensor and Uses
The MPU9250 is a 9-axis motion-sensing IMU sensor in a single package: a 3-axis accelerometer + 3-axis gyroscope + 3-axis magnetometer. It is the MPU6050 with a magnetometer added; used in drones, robot orientation and motion tracking. It is discontinued; for new designs the ICM-20948 is recommended. It is 3.3 V.
The MPU9250 is a 9-axis motion-sensing IMU (inertial measurement unit) sensor in a single package: a 3-axis accelerometer + 3-axis gyroscope + 3-axis magnetometer (compass). It is the MPU6050 with a magnetometer added. For the concept, see what is an accelerometer.
What is the MPU9250 used for?
Drone/flight control, robot orientation, motion tracking, wearables and head tracking (VR). Thanks to the magnetometer it also provides absolute heading (compass), unlike the MPU6050; with sensor fusion it computes 3D orientation (AHRS).
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Axes | 9 (accel + gyro + magneto) |
| Interface | I²C and SPI |
| Supply | 2.4 – 3.6 V (3.3 V) |
| Internals | MPU6500 (6-axis) + AK8963 (magneto) |
Watch out
The MPU9250 is discontinued; for new designs InvenSense's ICM-20948 is recommended. It is 3.3 V, not 5 V tolerant. The magnetometer is disturbed near iron/magnets and motors; for the compass, calibration (hard/soft iron) is a must.
Equivalents
- ICM-20948: the official 9-axis successor (new projects).
- MPU6050: 6-axis (no magnetometer).
- BNO055: 9-axis with built-in fusion (ready orientation output).
Find it in our catalog
Use the MPU9250 search.