Frequently Asked Questions

A fiber optic gyroscope (FOG) is an angular rate sensor based on the Sagnac effect. Light from a laser source is split into two beams that travel in opposite directions through a coil of optical fiber. When the sensor rotates, the beam traveling with the rotation experiences a longer optical path than the counter-rotating beam, creating a phase difference proportional to the angular rate. This phase shift is detected interferometrically, providing a highly stable and drift-resistant measurement of rotation. FOGs have no moving parts, making them extremely reliable and suitable for harsh environments.

The primary differences are in operating principle, performance, and physical characteristics:

MEMS gyroscopes use vibrating silicon microstructures and the Coriolis effect. They are very small, lightweight, low-power, and cost-effective, but typically have lower bias stability (1–10 °/h for tactical grade) and higher noise.

FOG gyroscopes use optical fiber and interferometric detection. They are larger, heavier, and more expensive, but offer superior bias stability (down to 0.003 °/h), lower noise, and excellent long-term stability. FOGs are preferred for GPS-denied navigation and precision applications, while MEMS is ideal for SWaP-constrained and cost-sensitive systems.

See our detailed MEMS vs FOG comparison article for an in-depth analysis.

Bias stability measures how consistently a gyroscope maintains its zero-rate output over time and temperature variations. Expressed in degrees per hour (°/h), it is one of the most critical specifications because it directly determines heading drift in navigation systems. A gyroscope with poor bias stability will accumulate angular error faster, leading to greater position uncertainty. For example, a FOG with 0.01 °/h bias stability will drift approximately 0.01° per hour, while a sensor with 1 °/h will drift 100 times more. This is why strategic-grade navigation requires bias stability below 0.01 °/h.

Yes. GyroNavi offers products with extended and high-temperature operating ranges:

Standard FOGs and IMUs are rated for -40°C to +60°C or +85°C. Our quartz accelerometers are designed for extreme environments, with some models rated for continuous operation up to +180°C, making them suitable for oil and gas downhole MWD/LWD applications. We also offer custom high-temperature configurations for specific requirements.

Yes, GyroNavi provides comprehensive OEM and custom engineering services. We can tailor our sensors and systems to meet specific requirements including custom form factors, specialized electrical interfaces, modified firmware, and application-specific calibration profiles. Our engineering team works closely with customers from initial requirements definition through integration support and production qualification. Contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Lead times vary depending on the product and order quantity:

Standard products (stock items): 1–2 weeks for sample quantities.
Standard products (production orders): 4–8 weeks depending on quantity.
Custom or modified products: 6–12 weeks, depending on the complexity of modifications and qualification requirements.

We maintain inventory of popular models for faster delivery. Contact our sales team for specific lead time estimates on your order.

Absolutely. GyroNavi provides full technical support throughout the product lifecycle, including:

Sensor selection guidance and specification review, integration support and interface documentation, calibration data interpretation assistance, troubleshooting and failure analysis, and repair and recalibration services. Our engineering team is available to assist with technical questions via email, and we provide detailed datasheets, application notes, and integration guides for all products.

You can request a quotation or datasheet through several channels:

Online form: Use our contact page or click the "Get Quote" button on any page to submit an inquiry.
Email: Send your requirements directly to Frank@gyronavi.com.
Phone: Contact us during business hours (Mon–Fri, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM GMT+8).

Please include your application, required specifications, estimated quantity, and delivery timeline for the fastest response. Our team typically responds to inquiries within 12 business hours.