Barometric Pressure Sensor for altitude estimation

[M08]

Hello, what barometric pressure sensor is recommended regarding altitude estimation. 

Currently, my favorite would be the BMP581. However, I am a little bit confused regarding the performance of the BMP581 in regards BMP390. According to the datasheets, the BMP390 has a better relative accuracy with +/-  3 Pa (+/- 0.25 m) and RMS Noise of 0.02 Pa compared to the relative accuracy of +/- 6 Pa (+/- 0.5 m) and RMS Noise of 0.08 Pa of the BMP581.

Would you still recommend the BMP581 to achieve the highest accuracy in altitude estimation, or should I consider a different sensor?

Thank you

[FAE_CA1 · Accepted solution]

Hi,

Thanks for your inquiry.

BMP581 is our latest pressure sensor that is based on capacitance change technology, while BMP390 resistance change technology. Therefore, BMP581 has better absolute accuracy and offset change over temperature, etc. In addition, BMP581 can directly output pressure measurements in the unit of Pa, while BMP390 needs to apply formula to calculate the final pressure values in the unit of Pa.

So BMP581 is highly recommended for your application. If you need waterproof pressure sensor, then you may consider BMP585. You can start your evaluation on BMP581 or BMP585 by using our shuttle board at https://www.bosch-sensortec.com/media/boschsensortec/downloads/shuttle_board_flyer/application_board... that is available from Digikey and Mouser.

Thanks.