Shimmer has launched the ExG sensor module which is the latest addition to the Shimmer3 product family. This multimodal sensor module offers users two options for wireless signal acquisition when connected to the Shimmer platform. The ExG module provides a configurable digital front-end, optimized for the measurement of physiological signals for example 5-lead ECG (Electrocardiography) or 2-channel EMG (Electromyography).
Combining highly accurate physiological signal capture with unobtrusive and lightweight design the ExG module is the most advanced Shimmer module that has been released to date. As the device works in conjunction with the Shimmer3 sensor, which offers 10DoF kinematic data as standard, users have the ability to capture more data than ever before.
Flexibility and quality of data capture
This new sensor module features a range of updates on both the hardware and software side which enrich the data acquisition process whether the focus is ECG or EMG data capture. The five-wire, four-lead ECG solution can measure bipolar limbs leads with a user’s choice of V1-V6 which is more than the 2nd generation Shimmer ECG which is limited to bipolar limb leads. ExG also offers users the ability to capture two channels of EMG simultaneously with 10DoF Kinematic data.
ExG offers all new functionality which is provided by the digital interface, this includes test signal generation for validation purposes. Users have more control of their biophysical sensor applications with ExG as the gain is software configurable meaning users no longer require hardware changes to vary the gain.
In addition to configurable gain and data rate adjustments in the software built in EEPROM storage device unlocks expansion board detection and identification as well as lead-off detection from the all hospital-grade 1mm touch proof connections on the sensor module. The ExG module also features drastically reduced noise results, compared to the Shimmer2r EMG and ECG solution, in 16 bits of resolution. The high resolution can clearly be seen from the images shown below, which show pulse activity on the EMG signal and clean QRS components on the ECG signal.
Exploring new applications and sensor fusion
The Shimmer3 ExG module offers users with a unique opportunity to explore relationships between different types of sensor data. As the module can output data from more than one sensor there is an opportunity to explore physiological signals alongside orientation and motion data which ultimately provides more context to the user.
ExG lends itself to the creation of more context aware applications and the combination of sensors onboard the module offer users the freedom to explore new avenues in algorithm development. In turn this allows applications to become more accurate and enables them in providing even more actionable information to the end user.
ExG features a wide range of configuration options which allow for significant flexibility in different use cases. Going forward examples of these configuration options are will be exposed to users through the Shimmer Instrument Drivers.
Whether it is for EMG signal capture or ECG signal capture the Shimmer ExG module and associated Shimmer software development tools present a comprehensive toolkit for the smarter deployments in real-world data capture scenarios. From proving an initial concept on a small scale to making the transition toward end-to-end clinical grade product development Shimmer ExG is a fitting start point.
Shimmer ExG is available from Shimmer in a wide variety of product configurations; the ExG Development Kit for first time users as well as product bundles for existing Shimmer users – more information can be seen at the Shimmer e-store or for a full list of the technical specifications readers can click here.
For all enquiries regarding the ExG module or indeed any other aspect of Shimmer, feel free to contact us as always at on [email protected]
