AD8232 Heart Rate Monitor Sensor | Example Code for Arduino - Sampling and ECG Output

This article offers a detailed tutorial on utilizing Arduino for ECG signal sampling and output, including hardware setup, software guidelines, and practical advice to optimize ECG signal quality, ensuring users can effectively measure and analyze heart rate signals.

Hardware Preparation

DFRduino UNO (or similar) x 1
Heart Rate Monitor Sensor x 1
Sensor cable - Electrode Pads (3 connectors) x 1
Biomedical Sensor Pad x 1
Jumper wires

Software Preparation

Arduino IDE V1.6.6 or above, Click to Download Arduino IDE from Arduino®

Wiring Diagram

SEN0213 Heart Rate Monitor Sensor Connection Diagram

Other Preparation Work

NOTE:
An ECG signal can be quite noisy due to surrounding muscle activity. The further the sensor pads are from the heart, the more muscle noise you will see. To improve the signal quality, follow these simple tips:
Keep sensor pads as close to the heart as you can
Make sure the RA and LA sensor pads are on correct sides of the heart
Try not to move too much while taking a measurement
Try to use fresh pads for each measurement. The pads loose the ability to pass signals with multiple applications
Prepare and clean the area you plan to stick pads. This will help make a good connection (hair is not a good conductor)
You may have to adjust sensor placement for different individuals

Sample Code


/*!
* @file HeartRateMonitor.ino
* @brief HeartRateMonitor.ino  Sampling and ECG output
*
*  Real-time sampling and ECG output
*
* @author linfeng([email protected])
* @version  V1.0
* @date  2016-4-5
*/
const int heartPin = A1;
void setup() {
  Serial.begin(115200);
}
void loop() {
int heartValue = analogRead(heartPin);
Serial.println(heartValue);
delay(5);
}

Result

Step 1. Open the Arduino IDE 1.6.6 (or above) "Serial Plotter";

SEN0213 Heart Rate Monitor Sensor Expected Result

Step 2. Then you could see the output signal from the microcontroller - A1 port, the ECG.