“In today’s project, I tried to build my own pulse monitor that measures my heart rate in beats per minute (bpm) but also monitors the oxygen saturation levels in my blood, using an MAX30105 oximeter sensor coupled with an OLED screen.
This sensor is fascinating in that it’s highly sensitive to changes in light, particularly with infrared, which allows us to detect pulse and oxygen saturation by analyzing the color fluctuations in our fingers as blood flows through it. It’s pretty impressive how such a small sensor, commonly used in smoke detectors, can be repurposed for personal health monitoring.
Disclaimer: The DIY pulse oximeter project outlined in this article is intended for educational and recreational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical equipment and should not be used to make medical decisions or diagnose health conditions. The accuracy of the readings from this device has not been clinically validated and may not match the precision or reliability of a certified medical device. If you have concerns about your health or require medical monitoring of your pulse or oxygen saturation levels, consult with a healthcare professional and use an approved medical-grade pulse oximeter. Always prioritize safety and accuracy when it comes to health monitoring.
Supplies
Tools and materials used in the project:
- MAX30105 Particle Sensor
- SSD1306 OLED Screen
- NodeMCU development Board
- Mini Breadboards
- Dupont jumper wires
- Breadboard Jumper PCB
- Multimeter
- Rework Station
- Wire Snips
- Automatic Wire Stripper
- RD6012 Bench Power Supply”