Overview
AK8973 is a geomagnetism detection type electronic compass IC.
The small package of AK8973 integrates magnetic sensors for detecting geomagnetism in the X-axis, Y-axis,
and Z-axis, and arithmetic circuit for processing the signal from each sensor. AK8973 outputs four data in total as 8-bit digital values respectively: 3-axis magnetic sensor measured values and temperature sensor read value. By processing the magnetic sensor measured values withan external CPU, azimuth data can be obtained.

FEATUREs
3-axis electronic compass IC
Optimal built-in electronic compass for mobile phones and handy terminals
High sensitivity Hall sensors are integrated.
Functions
  •  Built-in 8-bit ADC
  •  Built-in amplifier for sensor signal amplification
  •  Built-in 8-bit DAC for sensor signal offset compensation
  •  Built-in EEPROM for storing individual adjustment values
  •  Built-in temperature sensor
  •  8-bit digital output
  •  Serial interface: I2C bus interface (supporting the low-voltage specification)
  •  Automatic power-down function
  •  Interrupt function for measurement data ready
  •  Built-in master clock oscillator
…Operating temperatures:  -30°C to +85°C
…Operating supply voltage:  +2.5V to +3.6V
…Low current consumption/measurement time:
  •  Power-down: 0.2μA typ.
  •  Magnetic sensor driving:  6.8mA/12.6ms
Package:  16-pin QFN package:  4.0mm×4.0mm×0.7mm