TECH: The Accelerometer

Ever wondered how your PowerShot reframes portraits when you tilt the display?
Ever wonder how that Wii controller steers Mario's cart with precision accuracy?

A new gravity-sensitive microchip called an accelerometer has found its way into our favorite devices. An accelerometer is a very small piece of hardware that measures the gravitational forces acting on an object. Simply put, this chip measures inclination (tilt) and vibration.

In computing, an accelerometer allows applications to respond to movements in space. IBM and Apple have used this technology to develop security software should your laptop take a nasty tumble. A rapid change in altitude will shut off the hard drive and protect the heads from crashing against the platters; thus protecting vital information on impact. Other uses of accelerometers in everyday technology include the image/blur stabilization on digital cameras, the motion detection on Wii controllers, and the always impressive beer-simulated iPhone-chug!

The future for this non-fixed function is quite promising. Nike has begun incorporating the accelerometer into athletic wear to track performance. Motion vehicles are using accelerometers to enhance passenger safety in the event of rapid negative acceleration (a car crash). For years to come, accelerometers will provide safety, security, and a little fun in the unbalanced world we live.