LIS2MDL Axis Directions

[JCond]

Figure 2 of the LIS2MDL datasheet shows the following picture of the magnetometer axes orientation. However, it's completely unclear if they are labeling the positive direction of the axes. If they did label the positive directions with the X/Y/Z label, it would have a Left-handed orientation (against all convention).

Are the positive axis directions indicated by the axis labels? Is this a left-handed coordinate frame?

[Eleon BORLINI · Accepted solution]

Hi @JCond​ ,

you guessed right, the positive directions is pointing towards the X/Y/Z label, so frame is left-handed coordinated. It's a matter of conventions, indeed...

It basically depends on the internal chip assembly of the device: for the LIS2MDL, the more reliable way to mount the internal magnetometer turned out in a left-handed orientation.

On the other hand, for example in the case of LIS3MDL, x-axis direction is opposite and the convention changes to right-handed orientation.

You should just take it into account in your software calculation, or does it generate problems in your application?

-Eleon

[JCond]

Understood. I'll correct it in software. It would be great if in the future the orientation figure was a bit clearer (e.g. the one for the LSM6DSOX is fine).