SBG’s new IMU
07/10/2026
SBG Systems has introduced the latest generation of its Pulse-40 OEM, an ultra-compact, tactical-grade inertial measurement unit (IMU) designed for demanding defence, aerospace and autonomous applications.
The newly updated sensor is engineered to meet the growing industry need for high-performance navigation and guidance systems that minimise size, weight and power. Measuring just 30 × 28 × 13.3 mm and weighing 19 g, the miniature unit operates with a typical power consumption of 0.3 W while offering enhanced resistance to mechanical vibrations and electromagnetic interference.
Key upgrades to the platform focus on measurement accuracy and long-term stability, including enhanced gyroscope bias stability, improved scale factor accuracy and better long-term repeatability. The unit introduces a ±4000°/s gyroscope range, doubling the maximum angular rate of previous models to support high-dynamic platforms such as guided rockets, precision-guided glide bombs and loitering munitions. It also integrates three-axis magnetometers, providing a complete nine-degree-of-freedom sensing solution without increasing the physical footprint.
Beyond accuracy, the processing architecture has been redesigned to minimise motion-to-output latency to as low as 1.5 ms, enabling output rates up to 2 kHz for rapid control-loop updates. To preserve performance in harsh environments, the IMU features an integrated vibration damping system and an updated electrical design to defend against electromagnetic disturbances.
A standout feature of the new generation is its built-in vibration monitoring capability, which continuously analyses the mechanical environment to generate a real-time vibration spectrum from 4 Hz to 8 kHz. This allows engineers to access fast Fourier transform data and summarised vibration reports directly from the IMU during testing and integration, eliminating the need for external instrumentation and simplifying troubleshooting throughout the system lifecycle.
Yoann Plenet, Head of Product Management at SBG Systems, commented: “Many of our customers operate in environments where vibrations and electromagnetic disturbances can be just as challenging as achieving the required inertial performance. The new Pulse-40 OEM addresses both challenges. This new platform is more resilient to harsh operating conditions and its unique vibration spectrum monitoring feature provides engineers with direct insight into the vibration environment up to 8 kHz. This not only helps preserve navigation performance but also dramatically simplifies integration, testing and troubleshooting.”
The updated hardware maintains full mechanical and integration compatibility with existing Pulse-40 configurations, allowing for straightforward upgrades with minimal system redesign. Additionally, the revised architecture supports greater manufacturing efficiency to scale production for large deployment programmes and the unit is available immediately for evaluation and integration.
