BME 3204 LAB REPORT 01

Lab Title:

Acquisition and Comparative Analysis of ECG Signals Using the BIOPAC M45 Module

Abstract:

This lab experiment demonstrates the acquisition of electrocardiogram (ECG) signals using
the BIOPAC M45 module, a crucial process in monitoring cardiac health. The study involves
understanding the working principles of the BIOPAC system, proper electrode placement, and
data acquisition. Key results, including the PQRST waveform and derived parameters, are
analyzed to evaluate cardiac function. The experiment highlights the importance of precision
in biomedical signal acquisition and its applications in diagnosing cardiac anomalies.
Challenges such as motion artifacts are discussed, alongside their mitigation strategies. Overall,
the experiment provides an understanding of ECG signal acquisition using the BIOPAC MP45
system, along with a comparative analysis to visually interpret the differences between ECG
signals of a subject in a normal state and after exercise.

Objectives:

1. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the working principle and functionality of

the BIOPAC M45 module for ECG signal acquisition.
2. To acquire, display, and analyze ECG signals in order to assess their characteristics and
variations.
3. To interpret the key components of the ECG waveform, including P-waves, QRS
complexes, and T-waves, for detailed physiological insights.
4. To compare and contrast the ECG signals of a test subject in relaxed and exercised
states, examining the physiological responses and changes in heart activity

I. INTRODUCTION

A. Fundamentals of Electrocardiograph (ECG)

The human heart generates electrical impulses that orchestrate its rhythmic contractions,
ensuring the continuous circulation of blood throughout the body. These impulses, originating
from the heart's pacemaker cells, create electrical signals that propagate through the cardiac
muscle and extend outward as measurable "echoes" across the body. By placing a pair of very
sensitive receivers (electrodes) on other parts of the body, the echoes of the heart’s electrical

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activity can be detected. The record of the electrical signal from the heart is called an
electrocardiogram (ECG). We can infer the heart’s mechanical activity from the ECG.
Electrical activity varies through the ECG cycle as shown below:

Figure 1: Components of the ECG (Lead II) & Electrical and mechanical events of the cardiac cycle

The ECG represents electrical events of the cardiac cycle whereas Ventricular Systole and
Ventricular Diastole represent mechanical events (contraction and relaxation of cardiac muscle,
passive opening and closing of intracardiac valves, etc.). Electrical events occur quickly,
mechanical events occur slowly. Generally, mechanical events follow the electrical events that
initiate them. Thus, the beginning of ventricular diastole is preceded by the beginning of
ventricular depolarization. In fact, in a normal resting Lead II, ventricular repolarization
normally begins before the completion of ventricular systole in the same cardiac cycle. That is
why the end of ventricular systole/beginning of ventricular diastole is marked in Fig. 1 about
1/3 of the way down the T-wave (Akula & Mohamed, 2019)

Components of the ECG The electrical events of the heart (ECG) are usually recorded as a
pattern of a baseline (isoelectric line,) broken by a P wave, a QRS complex, and a T wave. In
addition to the wave components of the ECG, there are intervals and segments (Figure 1). The
isoelectric line is a point of departure of the electrical activity of depolarizations and
repolarizations of the cardiac cycles and indicates periods when the ECG electrodes did not
detect electrical activity. An interval is a time measurement that includes waves and/or
complexes. A segment is a time measurement that does not include waves and/or complexes.

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B. Components of ECG:

TABLE 1: FUNDAMENTAL COMPONENTS OF AN ECG SIGNAL:

ECG Measurement Representation Duration Amplitude

Component Area (seconds) (millivolts)
P Begin and end on Depolarization of the right and 0.07 – 0.18 < 0.25
isoelectric line left atria
(baseline); normally
upright in standard
limb leads
QRS Begin and end on Represents depolarization of the 0.06 –0.12 0.5 – 1.5
isoelectric line right and left ventricles. Atrial
Waves

(baseline) from start repolarization is also part of this

of Q wave to end of segment, but the electrical signal
S wave for atrial repolarization is
masked by
T Begin and end on Repolarization of the right and 0.10 – 0.25 N/A
isoelectric line left ventricles
(baseline)
P-R From start of P Time from the onset of atrial 0.12 – 0.20 N/A
wave to start of depolarization to the onset of
QRS complex ventricular depolarization
Q-T From start of QRS Time from onset of ventricular 0.35 – 0.44 N/A
complex to end of T depolarization to the end of
Intervals

wave ventricular repolarization. It

represents the refractory period
of the ventricles
R-R From peak of R Time between two successive Variable N/A
wave to peak of ventricular depolarizations
succeeding R wave
P-R From end of P wave Time of impulse conduction 0.08 N/A
to start of QRS from the AV node to the
complex ventricular myocardium
S-T Between end of S Period of time representing the 0.05 – 0.15 N/A
Segments

wave and start of T early part of ventricular

wave repolarization
T-P From end of T wave Time from the end of ventricular Variable N/A
to start of repolarization to the onset of
successive P wave atrial depolarization

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C. BIOPAC M45 System

The BIOPAC M45 module is a key component in acquiring high-quality electrocardiogram

(ECG) signals for the assessment of cardiac health. This system integrates specialized
electrodes, lead sets, and the BIOPAC Student Lab System (BSL 4 Software) to provide a
comprehensive solution for ECG signal acquisition and analysis. The M45 module's
functionality allows for precise recording of the heart's electrical activity, offering valuable
insights into heart function through the analysis of waveform components such as the P-wave,
QRS complex, and T-wave. With the ability to filter and sample signals at high rates, the
BIOPAC M45 ensures optimal signal clarity, while minimizing noise and artifacts, which is
critical for accurate cardiac evaluation. This system is fundamental for conducting experiments
that require reliable and consistent ECG signal monitoring, making it an essential tool in
biomedical research and clinical applications.(BSL 4 Lab Manual for MP45 | BIOPAC, n.d.)

Figure 2: (a) BIOPAC MP45 data acquisition system

D. Leads:

The particular arrangement of two electrodes (one positive, one negative) with respect to a
third electrode (the ground) is called a lead. The electrode positions for the different leads have
been standardized. In this experiment, Lead II is used, with the positive electrode on the left
ankle, negative electrode on the right wrist, and ground on the right ankle. The dominant feature
in a Lead II ECG is the QRS complex, where the Q and S waves are small and negative, and
the R wave is large and positive. Factors such as body size, heart size, and lead placement can
influence the duration, form, rate, and rhythm of the QRS complex.
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The bipolar limb lead axes may be used to construct an equilateral triangle, called
Einthoven’s triangle, at the center of which lies the heart (Fig. 3) Each side of the triangle
represents one of the bipolar limbs leads.

Figure 3: Lead Representation through Einthoven

The positive electrodes of the three bipolar limb leads are electrically about the same
distance from the zero-reference point in the center of the heart. Thus, the three sides of the
equilateral triangle can be shifted to the right, left, and down without changing the angle of
their orientation until their midpoints intersect at the center of the heart (Fig. 3) This creates a
standard limb lead vectograph with each of the lead axes forming a 60-degree angle with its
neighbors. The vectograph can be used to plot the vector representing the mean electrical axis
of the heart in the frontal plane. (Pflanzer et al., n.d.)

II. APPARATUS

1. BIOPAC M45 Module

2. BIOPAC Electrode Lead Set (SS2L)

3. Disposable ECG electrodes

4. BIOPAC Student Lab System: BSL 4 Software

5. Electrode gel

6. Laptop or computer

7. Gel wipes (for skin preparation)

8. Subject volunteer

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III. METHODOLOGY

The following methodology outlines the necessary steps for preparing both the subject and
equipment to ensure accurate ECG signal acquisition. It includes procedures for subject
preparation, electrode placement, hardware and software setup, and calibration, all aimed at
minimizing potential sources of error and optimizing signal quality.

A. Preparation:

1. Subject Preparation: The subject’s skin was cleaned using alcohol wipes to ensure
proper electrode adhesion and reduce signal noise.

2. Electrode Placement:

a) One electrode on the medial surface of the left leg just above the ankle bone.
b) One electrode on the medial surface of the right leg, just above the ankle bone.
c) One electrode on the right anterior forearm just above the wrist. (RA)

Figure 4: Subject position and Electrode Placement

3. Environment:
a) The cables should have enough slack to not pull on the electrodes or the
transducer when hands are in lap and must be positioned to allow unrestricted
movement when the right hand is raised above the head.
b) Connect the electrode cable clip to a convenient location on the subject's
clothes. For optimal electrode contact, place electrodes on skin at least five
minutes before starting calibration. Clip the electrode lead set (SS2L) to the
electrodes, following the color code:
• Red: Left Ankle
• White: Right Wrist
• Black: Right Ankle

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4. Clean the window of the pulse transducer:

This will prevent any oil or dirt on the window from interfering with the signal. Use a
soft cloth, Q-tip, or other non-abrasive material to wipe it clean.

B. Hardware Setup:

1. The electrodes were connected to the BIOPAC M45 module via leads.

2. The MP system was linked to the computer for signal visualization and analysis.

C. Software Setup:

1. BIOPAC Student Lab System: BSL 4 Software was launched, and the ECG signal
acquisition module was selected.

2. Choose lesson “ECG I" and click OK.

3. Type in a unique filename and click OK.
a) No two people can have the same filename, so use a unique identifier, such as
the subject’s nickname or student ID.
b) A folder will be created using the filename.

D. Calibration:

The calibration procedure establishes the hardware’s internal parameters (such as gain,
offset, and scaling) and is critical for optimal performance. Pay close attention to calibration.

1. Subject is seated relaxed and still, facing away from the monitor (Fig. 7.6).

a) The subject must be seated in a chair, arms at the side of the body, and knees
flexed with feet supported.
b) The subject must remain relaxed and still throughout calibration to minimize
baseline shift and EMG artifact.
c) Calibration lasts twenty seconds.

2. Click Calibrate and wait for Calibration to stop.

3. Verify recording resembles the example data.

a) If similar: Click Continue and proceed to Data Recording.

b) If necessary: Click Redo Calibration.

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E. Signal Acquisition:

Initial Signal Acquisition (Relaxed State):

1. The subject was seated comfortably in a relaxed position.

2. After ensuring the proper placement of electrodes as per the Lead II configuration using
the BIOPAC M45 module, the subject's ECG signal was recorded for 2 minutes.

3. The subject was instructed to remain still during the recording to minimize motion
artifacts and ensure signal clarity.

Post-Exercise Signal Acquisition:

1. The subject performed a physical exercise session for 5 minutes.

2. After completing the exercise, the subject was seated and ECG signals were recorded
immediately for another 2 minutes.

F. Signal Analysis:

1. Open the BIOPAC Student Lab (BSL 4) software.

2. From the interface, select the "Open a graph file" option and navigate to the desired file
in the computer directory.

3. A graph with the corresponding data will be displayed in the interface.

4. For visual analysis, go to File > Save As > JPEG and save the graph to the desired
location.

5. For numerical analysis, save the data as a CSV file by selecting the respective option

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IV. RESULTS

SUBJECT 1: NOUSHIN

Figure 5: ECG Signal of Subject 1 (Noushin) in Relaxed Condition

Figure 6: ECG Signal of Subject 1 (Noushin) After Exercise

SUBJECT 2: ACHIA

Figure 7: ECG Signal of Subject 1 (Achia) in Relaxed Condition

Figure 8: ECG Signal of Subject 1 (Achia) After Exercise

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SUBJECT 3: RICKY

Figure 9: ECG Signal of Subject 1 (Ricky) in Relaxed Condition

Figure 10: ECG Signal of Subject 1 (Ricky) After Exercise

SUBJECT 4: RIFAT

Figure 11: ECG Signal of Subject 1 (Rifat) in Relaxed Condition

Figure 12: ECG Signal of Subject 1 (Rifat) After Exercise

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Comparative Analysis

Across all subjects, the relaxed ECG recordings are characterized by well-defined
waveforms, stable heart rates, and longer recovery periods (T-P intervals). Post-exercise, the
ECG signals display consistent trends of increased heart rates (shortened R-R intervals) and
reduced recovery times (shortened T-P intervals). These physiological adaptations are
consistent with the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, facilitating increased oxygen
delivery and cardiac output during exercise. Notably, the amplitude of the QRS complex
remains stable across conditions, suggesting consistent electrical conduction despite changes
in heart rhythm.

This analysis underscores the dynamic nature of cardiac function and highlights the
reliability of the BIOPAC M45 system in capturing these variations effectively

V. DISCUSSION

The primary objective of this experiment was to acquire, analyze, and compare
electrocardiogram (ECG) signals of a subject in relaxed and post-exercise states using the
BIOPAC M45 module. The study highlighted the physiological effects of exercise on cardiac
activity, revealing distinct changes in ECG components and heart rate between the two
conditions.

Key Findings:

1. Relaxed State Observations:

➢ ECG Signal Characteristics: The ECG exhibited stable and well-defined components,
including the P-wave, QRS complex, and T-wave.
➢ Heart Rate: Calculations based on R-R intervals showed a consistent heart rate within
normal resting values.
➢ Significance: These findings provided a baseline representation of the subject’s cardiac
function in a state of minimal physical activity, indicating a healthy cardiac condition.

2. Post-Exercise Observations:

➢ Heart Rate Increase: A decrease in R-R intervals reflected a significant rise in heart
rate, consistent with the body’s increased metabolic demand during exercise.

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➢ Signal Changes: The amplitude of the QRS complex remained stable. A reduced T-P
interval was observed, indicating shorter recovery time between cardiac cycles.

3. Challenges and Limitations:

➢ Motion Artifacts: Minor baseline shifts occurred, particularly in the post-exercise

recordings, due to motion artifacts.
➢ Mitigation Efforts: Proper electrode placement and subject preparation helped
minimize noise, but these artifacts underscore the need for precise calibration in
biomedical signal acquisition.

It is essential to highlight the key aspects of cardiac response to physiological stimuli. Different
individuals exhibit varying degrees of heart rate increase, QRS amplitude change, PR interval
shortening, T wave amplitude increase, and recovery rate. These variations can provide insights
into individual cardiovascular responses and autonomic regulation. The table below
summarizes the ECG parameter changes observed in four individuals:

TABLE 2: OVSERVED PARAMTERS COMPARISON:

ECG Parameters Rifat Ricky Achia Noushin

(R-R Interval Shortening) High Moderate Moderate High
QRS Amplitude Change High Moderate High Low
PR Interval Shortening High High Moderate Moderate
T Wave Amplitude Increase Significant Moderate Significant Low
Recovery Rate Fast Fast Moderate Slow

VI. CONCLUSION

This experiment effectively demonstrated the dynamic nature of cardiac activity by

comparing electrocardiogram (ECG) signals in relaxed and post-exercise states. In the relaxed
state, the well-defined P-wave, QRS complex, and T-wave components, along with consistent
R-R intervals, provided a clear baseline of normal cardiac function under minimal physical
exertion. These results reflected a predominance of parasympathetic nervous system activity,
which is characteristic of a resting state. In contrast, post-exercise recordings revealed
significant physiological changes in response to heightened metabolic demands. The decreased

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R-R intervals indicated a marked increase in heart rate, while the reduced T-P interval
highlighted a shorter recovery period between cardiac cycles. These changes demonstrated the
body's natural adaptations to exercise, driven by the activation of the sympathetic nervous
system to support increased oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues. Interestingly, the amplitude
of the QRS complex remained relatively stable, suggesting that while the heart's rhythm
adjusted, the electrical conduction pathways maintained consistent functionality.

REFERENCES

Akula, R., & Mohamed, H. (2019). Automation algorithm to detect and quantify
electrocardiogram waves and intervals. Procedia Computer Science, 151, 941–946.
https://doi.org/10.1016/J.PROCS.2019.04.131

BSL 4 Lab Manual for MP45 | MANBSL4-45 | Education | BIOPAC. (n.d.). Retrieved February
7, 2025, from https://www.biopac.com/product/bsl-lab-manual-v4-for-mp45-english/

Pflanzer, R., Uyehara, J. C., & Mcmullen, W. (n.d.). Physiology Lessons for use with the Biopac
Student Lab Lesson 2 ELECTROMYOGRAPHY II Motor unit recruitment Fatigue.

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