The BioAmp EXG Pill is an advanced, high-performance bio-potential signal amplifier designed to record publication-grade biopotential signals. It can be used to measure Electrocardiogram (ECG) from the heart, Electromyogram (EMG) from muscles, Electrooculogram (EOG) from eye movements, or Electroencephalogram (EEG) from the brain. The "unassembled" version provides the PCB and all necessary components, allowing users to solder the parts themselves, which is a great educational experience for understanding the circuit's design and function.
โจ Key Features and Benefits
Versatile Use: Can be configured to measure ECG, EMG, EOG, or EEG signals.
High-Quality Signal: Designed to produce low-noise, high-fidelity signals suitable for scientific publication.
Open-Source Hardware: The design is open-source, promoting transparency and community development.
Compact Form Factor: Small size makes it ideal for wearable and portable projects.
Unassembled Kit: Offers a hands-on learning experience in soldering and electronics.
Easy Integration: Can be interfaced with any microcontroller with an analog-to-digital converter (ADC).
Built-in Filters: Includes filters to remove ambient noise and power line interference.
๐ง Material and Construction Details
Component
Material
Description
PCB
FR-4
The main circuit board provided in the kit
Amplifier IC
Specialized Bio-potential Amplifier
A high-gain, low-noise integrated circuit
Passive Components
Resistors, Capacitors, Inductors
Used for filtering and amplification circuitry
Connectors
Header Pins / Solder pads
For power, signal, and electrode connections
Electrodes
Medical-grade Ag/AgCl
Self-adhesive pads for connecting to the body
๐ Use Cases and Applications
Biomedical engineering projects
Neuroscience and cognitive science research
Bio-feedback and mind-controlled devices
Robotics and BCI (Brain-Computer Interface) development
Wearable health and fitness trackers
Educational tools for learning about biopotential signals
Research in human-computer interaction
๐ Technical Specifications
Specification
Details
Operating Voltage
3.3V - 5V DC (can vary based on configuration)
Output Signal
Analog (0V to VCC)
Input Impedance
Very high, to avoid loading the body's signal
CMRR
High Common-Mode Rejection Ratio for noise immunity
Dimensions
Small, "pill-sized" form factor
Output Type
Single-ended output
๐ Connection Diagram (General)
Module Pin
Function
Arduino/MCU Connection
VCC
Power Input (+)
3.3V or 5V
GND
Ground (-)
GND
OUT
Analog Output
Analog pin (e.g., A0)
RA / E1
Electrode 1
Connects to a specific electrode pad
LA / E2
Electrode 2
Connects to a specific electrode pad
RL / E-Ref
Reference Electrode
Connects to the reference electrode pad
๐งผ Assembly & Maintenance
As an unassembled kit, the main task is proper soldering of all the provided components onto the PCB. A well-soldered board ensures reliable performance. After assembly, proper electrode placement is critical for clean signal acquisition. Electrodes should be placed on clean, dry skin. The module itself is maintenance-free, but electrodes should be replaced regularly as they are disposable.
โ Safety Information
This product is intended for research, educational, and hobbyist use only. It is not a medical device and should not be used for diagnosis or treatment. Do not connect this device to patients on life support or other medical support systems. Always follow proper electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions during assembly. Ensure the power source is within the specified voltage range. The electrodes should only be used on intact, healthy skin.
๐๐ Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
High-quality, publication-grade signal amplification
Requires soldering skills for assembly
Extremely versatile for different biopotential signals
Not a professional medical device, for research and hobby use only
Open-source design with community support
Requires good electrode placement and clean signal processing
Great for learning electronics and bio-signals
More expensive than basic heart rate sensor modules