The BMI160 6-Axis Motion Tracking Sensor Module (GY-BMI160) is a compact, low-power inertial measurement unit (IMU) that combines a 16-bit 3-axis accelerometer and a 16-bit 3-axis gyroscope in a single module. Built around Bosch’s BMI160 MEMS sensor, this module is designed for high-precision motion sensing in smartphones, wearables, game controllers, and IoT devices .
At the heart of the module is the Bosch BMI160, a highly integrated IMU that delivers hardware-synchronized accelerometer and gyroscope data with precise timestamps (39µs resolution). This makes it ideal for sensor fusion applications requiring accurate, low-latency motion tracking . The accelerometer offers selectable ranges of ±2g / ±4g / ±8g / ±16g, while the gyroscope supports ±125°/s to ±2000°/s .
The module features ultra-low power consumption — typically 950µA when both sensors are in full operation, with a low-power mode down to 3µA. This makes it suitable for battery-powered and always-on applications . A built-in power management unit (PMU) and 1024-byte FIFO buffer further reduce host processor load and enable efficient data handling .
The GY-BMI160 module supports both I2C and SPI interfaces, with I2C clock speeds up to 1MHz and SPI up to 10MHz . The board includes an onboard LDO regulator supporting 3.2V to 6V input, and I2C level-shifting circuitry that makes it directly compatible with both 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers like Arduino, ESP32, and STM32 .
The module also features intelligent built-in algorithms, including a step counter that can be read directly through registers, making it ideal for fitness tracking and wearable applications . Additional motion detection features include any-motion/no-motion detection, tap/double-tap sensing, orientation detection, and free-fall/shock events .
The GY-BMI160 is widely used in augmented reality (AR), indoor navigation, 3D scanning, immersive gaming, gesture recognition, and air mouse applications . It is suitable for individual makers, students, and businesses purchasing in bulk for product development or educational programs.
Important Note: The BMI160 operates at 1.71V to 3.6V for the sensor core. The GY-BMI160 module includes an LDO and level shifters, allowing 3-5V supply and direct connection to 5V logic systems. Always verify the module variant and pinout before connecting.
Features
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Bosch BMI160 IMU — 16-bit 3-axis accelerometer + 16-bit 3-axis gyroscope
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Ultra-low power — 950µA full operation, 3µA low-power mode
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Wide voltage support — 3.2V to 6V input with onboard LDO and level shifting
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I2C & SPI interfaces — Flexible connectivity (I2C up to 1MHz, SPI up to 10MHz)
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Hardware synchronization — Precise 39µs timestamps for sensor fusion
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1024-byte FIFO buffer — Reduces host processor load
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Built-in step counter — Intelligent pedometer algorithm readable via registers
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Motion detection interrupts — Tap, orientation, free-fall, any/no-motion
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Compact module — 14-pin LGA package (2.5 × 3.0 × 0.8 mm)
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Arduino compatible — Works with 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers
Technical Specifications
| # | Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sensor | Bosch BMI160 (3-axis accelerometer + 3-axis gyroscope) |
| 2 | Accelerometer Range | ±2g / ±4g / ±8g / ±16g (selectable) |
| 3 | Gyroscope Range | ±125°/s to ±2000°/s (selectable) |
| 4 | Output Resolution | 16-bit |
| 5 | Interface | I2C (up to 1MHz) / SPI (up to 10MHz) |
| 6 | Supply Voltage (Module) | 3.2V – 6V (onboard LDO) |
| 7 | Current Consumption | 950µA typical (full operation) |
| 8 | Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
