SparkFun Pulse Sensor

Overview

The SparkFun Pulse Sensor is a plug-and-play heart-rate sensor designed for Arduino and other microcontrollers. It uses an integrated optical sensor and noise-cancellation circuitry to provide reliable live pulse wave readings via a single analog output. This compact module operates between 3V and 5.5V and consumes only 3-4mA of current, making it suitable for battery-powered wearable prototypes.

Why Choose This Part

The sensor features onboard amplification and noise-filtering hardware that produces a clean signal compared to raw phototransistor circuits. Its small form factor (15.8mm diameter) and low power consumption allow for easy embedding into mobile devices. It also works with any microcontroller featuring an ADC, ensuring broad compatibility across different hardware platforms.

Applications

Getting Started

To begin, connect the signal pin to an analog input on your microcontroller and provide a supply voltage between 3V and 5V. Use the official PulseSensorPlayground library in the Arduino IDE to handle signal processing, beat detection, and BPM calculation. Ensure the sensor is held firmly but gently against the fingertip or earlobe for the most accurate readings.

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