SparkFun Single Lead Heart Rate Monitor AD8232 - ECG Sensor

The SparkFun Single Lead Heart Rate Monitor AD8232 is a versatile and affordable solution for monitoring heart activity. It measures the electrical signals of the heart and outputs an analog ECG (Electrocardiogram) reading, making it ideal for various DIY projects, including fitness trackers, heart health monitoring devices, and educational tools.

This sensor features an integrated signal conditioning block, which amplifies and filters biopotential signals, allowing accurate data even in noisy conditions, such as during movement or remote electrode placement. The device includes nine connection pins, which allow easy integration with Arduino and other microcontrollers. Essential pins for operation include 3.3V, GND, and OUTPUT, while the RA (Right Arm), LA (Left Arm), and RL (Right Leg) pins allow for easy connection to external electrodes.

A built-in LED light pulses with each heartbeat, providing a simple visual output of the heart rate signal. This monitor is designed for hobbyist projects and prototyping, but it is not intended for use as a medical device for diagnosis or treatment. External biomedical sensor pads and cables are required for full functionality, which can be purchased separately.

Specifications:

• Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• Compatible with Arduino and other microcontrollers
• Nine breakout connections: SDN, LO+, LO-, OUTPUT, 3.3V, GND, RA, LA, RL
• Analog ECG output
• LED indicator for heartbeat visualization
• Size: 1.75 x 1.2 inches (44.5 x 30.5 mm)

Use Cases:

• DIY fitness trackers
• Heart health monitoring projects
• Biomedical research and prototyping
• Educational tools for learning about ECG technology
• Arduino-based signal processing projects

This sensor offers a reliable and cost-effective way to explore biopotential measurements and heart monitoring in various applications.

Documents

• Schematic
• Eagle Files
• Hookup Guide
• Datasheet (AD8232)
• GitHub (Design Files & Example Code)
• Product Video