A self-test and dynamics characterization circuit for MEMS electrostatic actuators

This paper presents a high-bandwidth capacitance estimation and driving circuit especially tailored for its use with MEMS electrostatic actuators. The circuit can be integrated as a part of a system comprising an electrostatic actuator to provide self-testing and failure prediction capabilities and also as a simple and low-cost actuator dynamics characterization system capable of measuring both periodic and non-periodic movements.