The first PPG and ECG biosensor module for mobile devices

Maxim announced the launch of its new biosensor module, the MAX86150, consisting of an LED, photodetector, and ECG Analog Front End (AFE), which is the industry's first high-precision, FDA-approved PPG and ECG product for compact, energy-efficient designs, widely used in mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and smart speakers.

Now, designers can make photoelectric volumetry (PPG) and electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements easier in mobile, battery-powered health monitoring applications. Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. announced the introduction of its new biosensor module, the MAX86150, consisting of an LED, photodetector, and ECG Analog Front End (AFE), the industry's first high-precision, FDA-approved PPG and ECG product for compact, energy-efficient designs. Widely used in mobile phones, laptops, tablets and smart speakers.

Simultaneous PPG and ECG measurements have always been challenging because designers must use two separate biosensors, which often take up more board space and power than mobile devices can handle. In addition, achieving high-precision measurements can be challenging, especially when blood flow is slow or skin is dry, and the sensitivity of the sensor can be affected. The MAX86150 successfully overcomes these challenges by capturing both PPG and ECG and providing the highest sensitivity to pulse conduction time. To reduce battery power consumption, the module supports software shutdown, the standby current is near zero, and allows the power supply voltage to remain active. The MAX86150 optical module is available in a 3.3mm x 6.6mm x 1.3mm, 22-pin package.

Major advantage
● High precision: As an important indicator of noise suppression ability, the module has a common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) of 136dB, which is higher than similar products in the current market. Its 100mA, high dynamic range LED drivers enable higher sensitivity across a wide range of skin types. In addition, the contact impedance of the ECG sensor is very low, enabling more accurate measurements even for dry skin.
● Long battery life: 0.7μA(typical value) Ultra-low turn-off current to minimize battery current consumption. Lower power consumption than the nearest competing devices, further extending battery life.
● Easy to deploy: The module operates with a dry electrode, eliminating the need to use gels, liquids, sticky or wet electrode pads on other parts of the body to obtain high-precision readings.
● Small size: At the same size as a standalone ECG sensor, the ECG sensor and optical PPG sensor are integrated to save space and provide more functionality, without the need for a third electrode (as required by competing solutions).