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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →A GY-87 can supply compass-heading and acceleration readings for a simple Arduino pan/tilt project, but the exact magnetometer on your board matters. The published example maps heading and accelerometer values directly to two servo commands; it is not a universal GY-87 driver or a demonstrated stabilization controller.
How the GY-87 pan/tilt example works
An Arduino Project Hub example published August 5, 2022, initializes an MPU6050 and an HMC5883L magnetometer, then uses their readings to set two servos. Its parts list names an Arduino Uno Rev3 and jumper wires; the code attaches servos to pins 9 and 6. The page does not specify servo models or report test results (Arduino Project Hub).
Sensor readings become servo positions
The sketch reads magnetometer X and Y values and calculates a heading with atan2(my, mx), with an optional compass correction. It maps heading sectors to a base servo position. It then reads the MPU6050’s acceleration again, maps the Y-axis value to a servo range, reverses the result, and writes the two positions to the servos. Updates are gated at about 100 ms in the example.
This is a direct mapping, not a complete stabilization system. Although the sketch declares gyro values and sensitivity constants, its shown position calculations use compass heading and accelerometer Y; it does not show gyro fusion or a PID loop. The example establishes no particular accuracy, smoothness, or pointing performance.
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#1 Best Overall
- Product Name MPU-6050 MPU6050 6-Axis Accelerometer Gyro Sensor, which is a key component for motion sensing applications.
- Communication Protocol Utilizes the standard IIC communication protocol, enabling reliable data transfer between the sensor and other connected devices.
- AD Converter and Data Output Incorporates a built-in 16-bit AD converter, providing precise 16-bit data output for accurate measurement and analysis.
- Gyroscope Range Offers a gyroscope range of +/- 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 degrees per second, allowing for the detection of various rotational speeds and movements.
- Acceleration Range The acceleration range spans ±2, ±4, ±8, and ±16 grams, facilitating the measurement of different levels of linear acceleration in various applications such as inertial navigation and motion tracking.
Identify the magnetometer before choosing a library
“GY-87” is a board label, not a guarantee of one exact sensor set. A SunFounder-documented version combines an MPU6050, QMC5883L magnetometer, and BMP180, with I2C addresses 0x68, 0x0D, and 0x77 respectively (SunFounder GY-87 documentation). Another compatibility reference distinguishes HMC5883L at 0x1E, QMC5883L at 0x0D, and QMC5883P/HP5883 at 0x2C; the particular board discussed reports an MPU6050 at 0x68 and BMP180 at 0x77 (HW290 compatibility repository). These are examples of variants, not an exhaustive list.
The 2022 Arduino example calls an HMC5883L library, while SunFounder’s documented QMC5883L version uses QMC5883LCompass. If your board has a QMC5883L or another variant, the HMC5883L calls may not work unchanged. Confirm the chips on your module and whether they appear on I2C before picking a library. Arduino’s guidance for non-Arduino boards is to check the sensor specifications and find a compatible library (Arduino support: connecting sensors and actuators).
Rank #2
- 【High-Precision 10DOF Sensor Module for Advanced Applications】 The GY-87 module is a high-precision 10 degrees of freedom (10DOF) sensor system that integrates the MPU6050, HMC5883L, and BMP180 sensors. It provides accurate six-axis (acceleration + gyroscope) or nine-axis (plus magnetometer) motion data through a single I²C interface, making it Suitable for robotics, s, and IoT projects.
- 【Wide Voltage Compatibility for Easy Integration】 This GY-87 module supports a wide input voltage range of 4.5V to 6V DC, with an internal 3.3V LDO regulator for stable power supply. Whether you're using a 5V system or a custom power source, this module ensures reliable performance without the need for external voltage regulators.
- 【Advanced Motion Processing with DMP Technology】 Equipped with the MPU6050’s Digital Motion Processor (DMP), the GY-87 delivers real-time hardware-based attitude calculations. The HMC5883L magnetometer adds heading angle compensation, while the BMP180 barometric sensor offers precise altitude measurements, all in one compact package.
- 【Easy-to-Use I²C Interface for Seamless Connectivity】 The GY-87 features a standard I²C master-slave interface (address 0x68), with built-in pull-up resistors on SCL and SDA lines. This makes it easy to integrate into your microcontroller-based projects, whether you're working with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or other platforms.
- 【Robust Design for Reliable Performance in Harsh s】 With a temperature compensation range from -40°C to +85°C, the GY-87 module is designed for long-term stability in various s. Its modular design allows for independent sensor control, giving you full flexibility for custom applications like flight control, robot navigation, and more.
Useful address examples
| Part or variant | Example I2C address | Source and scope |
|---|---|---|
| MPU6050 | 0x68 | SunFounder’s documented GY-87 variant; also reported for the particular HW290 board described by the repository. |
| QMC5883L | 0x0D | SunFounder’s documented GY-87 variant and the repository’s QMC5883L variant. |
| BMP180 | 0x77 | SunFounder’s documented variant and the particular HW290 board described by the repository. |
| HMC5883L | 0x1E | Address listed by the HW290 compatibility repository for this variant. |
| QMC5883P/HP5883 | 0x2C | Address listed by the HW290 compatibility repository for this clone variant. |
The table records addresses documented for named variants; it does not mean every listed chip is on one GY-87 board.
Calibrate and place the compass carefully
SunFounder warns that its QMC5883L must be calibrated before use as a compass, held level during use, and kept away from iron objects, magnetized materials, and current-carrying wires. Its sample offsets and scales are intended to be replaced with calibration results, not reused as universal values (SunFounder GY-87 documentation).
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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsRank #3
- 【Complete 9‑Axis Motion And Orientation Sensing】 GY‑85 IMU module integrates 3‑axis gyroscope, 3‑axis accelerometer, and 3‑axis magnetometer; combines ITG3205, ADXL345, and HMC5883L sensors; delivers synchronized motion and heading data; simplifies multi‑sensor fusion design
- 【Wide Range Gyroscope And Acceleration Control】 ITG3205 gyroscope supports ±2000 dps angular rate measurement; ADXL345 accelerometer offers selectable ±2 g, ±4 g, ±8 g, and ±16 g ranges; adaptable sensitivity supports both slow motion tracking and dynamic movement analysis
- 【Digital Compass And Heading Measurement】 HMC5883L 3‑axis magnetometer provides digital magnetic field data; supports accurate heading calculation when combined with motion data; improves orientation stability; suitable for direction awareness and navigation logic in embedded systems
- 【Single I2C Interface With Interrupt Support】 All three sensors communicate through a unified I2C interface; reduces wiring and pin usage; interrupt output supports event‑driven data capture; improves system efficiency and simplifies firmware development for complex motion sensing tasks
- 【Wide Voltage Support And Compact GY‑85 Layout】 Supports 3.3 V to 5.0 V DC input; compatible with common control boards; compact GY‑85 PCB fits space‑limited designs; compatible with for Arduino and similar platforms; supports fast prototyping and clean hardware integration
For a pan/tilt assembly, that warning has practical consequences: servos, their power wiring, steel fasteners, and nearby magnets can affect the compass reading. Treat placement and calibration as part of the assembled mechanism, rather than assuming a reading calibrated on a bare module will remain reliable after installation. This is an engineering implication of the interference warning, not a measured result for this particular project.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choose the servos and mechanism for your build
The example names two servos but gives no model, travel, torque, mount geometry, or payload specification. Select servos and a bracket that match the required movement, physical fit, and load. Confirm the power arrangement for your exact servos and Arduino setup; the published project does not specify an external servo supply or wiring design.
Rank #4
- GY-87 10DOF Module MPU6050 HMC5883L BMP180 GY87 Sensor Module GY87 For Arduino
- Check that the servo travel suits the pan and tilt range you need.
- Choose torque and mounting hardware for the actual payload and leverage.
- Verify the servo wiring and power requirements against the selected components before connecting them.
The result is a useful starting point for a sensor-to-servo demonstration, but builders must resolve board identification, mechanical fit, and electrical power choices for their own hardware.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【High-Precision 9DOF IMU Module with I²C Interface】 This high-precision 9DOF IMU module integrates a three-axis gyroscope (ITG3205), accelerometer (ADXL345), and magnetometer (QMC5883L) to deliver accurate motion tracking. With I²C communication and dual address bus support, it’s Suitable for robotics, s, and VR systems requiring real-time attitude resolution.
- 【Wide Voltage Compatibility & Low Power Consumption】 Designed for flexibility, this module operates on 3.0V–5.0V DC power, making it compatible with both 3.3V and 5V systems. It consumes only 6.5mA in active mode and 5µA in sleep mode, ensuring energy efficiency for long-term use in embedded applications.
- 【Advanced Calibration & Temperature Compensation】 Built-in temperature compensation and automatic calibration algorithms ensure stable performance across a wide operating range (-40°C to +85°C). The module supports dynamic correction of gyro drift and magnetometer interference, enhancing reliability in complex s.
- 【Easy Integration with Arduino & Raspberry Pi】 With a modular design and open-source DMP/DCM fusion library, this IMU module is easy to integrate with popular platforms like Arduino and Raspberry Pi. Suitable for developers working on flight control, robot navigation, or motion capture projects.
- 【Robust Performance for Industrial & Consumer Applications】 Engineered for Reliable durability, this sensor module offers high-resolution data output and programmable bandwidth up to 1600Hz. Whether you're building a , smart robot, or wearable device, it delivers precise motion tracking with minimal external circuitry required.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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