Inertial - rotation rate sensor and - a method with a built-in test

摘要

Inertial rate sensor and method in which in which a single output terminal is utilized for delivering a rate output signal during normal operation, interfacing with an external computer during a programming mode, and for providing a warning in the event of a failure. Access to the programming mode is permitted only when a predetermined sequence of conditions is met, and accidental initiation of the programming mode is virtually impossible. Compensation data is stored redundantly at two locations in an internal memory, and the data is read from both locations and compared to verify its validity. Signals are monitored at different points to detect the occurrence of failures.