Bio-Signal Plotting: Hexabitz EXG & Arduino Integration

In this project, we will use an Arduino board in conjunction with the Hexabitz Single-Lead EXG Monitor Module (H2BR0) to plot analog signals on a plotter for visualizing biosignals such as ECG (Electrocardiogram) and EMG (Electromyogram).

Components Needed:

• Arduino Uno
• Connecting cables
• Electrode pads
• Computer with Arduino IDE installed
• Single-Lead, EXG Monitor (H2BR0x):

Hexabitz Single-Lead, EXG Monitor Module (H2BR0) is one of a kind module that can record publication-grade biopotential signals from your body be it from the heart (ECG), brain (EEG), eyes (EOG), and muscles (EMG).

What makes it different?

• Record publication-quality biopotential signals like ECG, EMG, EOG, or EEG.
• Small size allows easy integration into mobile and space-constrained projects.
• H2BR0 is based on STM32G0 MCU.
• Program advanced C code with our easy-to-use APIs.
• You can connect to external hardware or combine with other Hexabitz modules!

Steps:

Setup the Hardware:

• Connect the Hexabitz EXG Monitor Module to the Arduino Uno (A0- GND) using the provided connecting cables.
• Attach the electrode pads to the subject's body as per the instructions provided with the Hexabitz module.
• Ensure all connections are secure and the module is properly powered.

Programming the Arduino:

• Open the Arduino IDE on your computer.
• Write or upload the code to read the analog signals from the Hexabitz module and send the data to the serial plotter.

Visualizing the Data:

• Once the code is uploaded, open the serial plotter in the Arduino IDE.
• Observe the real-time plotting of the biosignals on the plotter.
• Adjust the settings and parameters as needed to get a clear and accurate visualization of the signals.

int y;
int x = 0;

void setup() {
  // initialize the serial communication
  Serial.begin(921600);
 }

void loop() {
  y = analogRead(A0);  // Analog output of ExG
  Serial.println(y);  // Send the analog value to the serial plotter

  if (x == 300) {
    x = 0;
    Serial.println("C");
  }
  x++;
  delay(30);
}

Here's the explanation for the code:

1. Variables:

• `int y;` declares a variable `y` to store the analog value read from the ExG monitor.
• `int x = 0;` initializes a counter variable `x` to 0.

2. Setup Function:

- `Serial.begin(921600);` initializes the serial communication at a baud rate of 921600. This allows the Arduino to send data to the computer.

3. Loop Function:

• `y = analogRead(A0);` reads the analog value from pin A0, which is connected to the ExG monitor, and stores it in the variable `y`.
• `Serial.println(y);` sends the analog value `y` to the serial plotter for visualization.

4. Counter Logic:

• `if (x == 300) {... }` checks if the counter `x` has reached 300.
• If true, it resets `x` to 0 and prints "C" to the serial plotter.
• `x++;` increments the counter `x` by 1.
• `delay(30);` introduces a delay of 30 milliseconds to prevent overwhelming the serial communication.

The code continuously reads the analog value from the ExG monitor and sends it to the serial plotter for real-time visualization. The counter and delay help manage the data flow and ensure smooth plotting.

Project Testing 🧐📉📈

Conclusion:

By following these steps, you can successfully integrate the Hexabitz Single-Lead EXG Monitor Module with an Arduino to visualize biosignals. This setup can be used for various applications, including health monitoring and research projects.