How does this IMU work and how to convert its output into meaningful information? To understand more about IMUs and IRS, I have chosen the Honeywell 6DF-1N6-C2-HWL Inertial Measurement Unit as an example:


I don't see any mention of the output of the IMU in the linked datasheet - have I got it wrong? And how to convert the output into meaningful data? How do I convert raw accelerometer data into Speed in knots, for example? Is there a specific formula to calculate the speed (velocity might be apt) while also taking into account the movements in other directions as well?
Is the raw data from this specific IMU accurate enough for use in a GA aircraft / Light Sport Aircraft?
Am I right in saying that this IMU doesn't need Pitot / Static sources?


While most details might be about this specific IMU, please feel free to also give answers that apply to all IMUs as a whole.

EDIT: I do not want any positional data. I prefer an AHRS with Airspeed and Altitude sensing capabilities.
Regarding the Specified IMU

The referenced document describes the output protocol.


  SAEJ1939 CAN 29 bit identifier communication output — the standard for the transportation segment — allows more data to be transmitted than an RS-485 output


You would need to use SAE J1939 to decode the actual meaning of the output data. It is possible that Honeywell could provide you more information as part of purchasing the product.

To use this to develop an AHRS solution you would still need pitot &amp; static inputs to derive pressure altitude and airspeed, as you won't be able to get those from the provided sensors.


  acceleration range up to ±6 g, rotation rates up to ±75 deg/s,inclination angles up to ±50 deg and a sensor update rate from 1 Hz to 100 Hz


I think the biggest hurdle you have here is that it will only measure inclination angles up to 50 deg. Aircraft can find themselves in > 50 deg pitch attitudes, which won't be registered by the IMU.

This particular product (Honeywell 6DF-1N6-C2-HWL) seems to be designed for ground vehicle applications rather than aviation.