Instructions | Real-Time ECG Heart Monitor (Arduino & Processing)

1

The Science Behind It (Photoplethysmography)

This project relies on a medical technique called Photoplethysmography (PPG). The Pulse Sensor has a tiny green LED that continuously shines light into the tissue of your finger. Every time your heart pumps, a fresh wave of blood rushes through your capillaries. Since blood naturally absorbs green light, less light reflects back to the sensor's photodetector during a heartbeat. The Arduino measures these microscopic changes in light reflection to detect your exact pulse!
2
Circuit Assembly & Wiring
The hardware setup is incredibly straightforward. We only need to make three connections between the Pulse Sensor and the Arduino Uno:
- VCC (+): Connect to the 5V pin on the Arduino.
- GND (-): Connect to the GND pin on the Arduino.
- Signal (S): Connect to the Analog Pin A0 on the Arduino. (For the exact Fritzing wiring diagram, please check out my YouTube video!)
3

Uploading the Arduino Code
1. Open the .ino file in your Arduino IDE.
2. Connect the Arduino Uno to your computer.
3. Select "Arduino Uno" in Tools > Board.
4. Select your active COM Port in Tools > Port (Note this COM port number down!).
5. Compile and upload the code to the board.

Testing the System

A new visualizer window will open. Gently place your index finger on the Pulse Sensor (don't press too hard, or you will restrict the blood flow). Within seconds, you will see a real-time red line tracing your heartbeat, just like a real medical ECG monitor!

Real-Time ECG Heart Monitor (Arduino & Processing)

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