Four-in-one environmental sensor saves space and power in portables, wearables and IoT devices

RS Components is stocking the Bosch Sensortec BME680 four-in-one environmental sensor and associated shuttle board that eases product creation. The sensor combines temperature, pressure, humidity, and gas sensing for energy-conscious, cost-sensitive and space-constrained applications. Measuring just 3mm x 3mm x 0.93mm, the sensor reduces average power consumption by joining an energy-efficient active mode, called forced mode, and a low-power sleep mode that draws only 0.15µA. In the forced mode, the device completes one cycle taking pressure, temperature, humidity, and gas measurements in sequence before automatically reverting to sleep. Fast sensor response times decrease the forced mode cycle time, measurements can be independently enabled or disabled to save power, and up to ten temperature and duration settings can be stored for the internal gas-sensor heater to optimise the energy consumption. By offering remarkably accurate and linear responses, the device serves applications such as air quality measurement or weather monitoring stations, context sensing in wearables or building automation, sports trackers, personal navigation devices, and advanced industrial monitors. The eight-pin LGA metal-lid package guarantees high stability and interference immunity, enabling use in tough outdoor or industrial environments.