IMEC and its research affiliate Holst Centre have developed a prototype of an electrocardiogram (ECG) necklace based on IMEC's proprietary ultra-low power analog readout ASIC. It transmits heart beat data over a low-power commercial radio/microprocessor platform.

The necklace is easy to use and has a seven-day period of autonomy for the patient.

A wavelet-based heart beat detection algorithm embedded in the processor ensures the accurate computation of the instantaneous heart rate, even under high level of noise. A second ultra-low power microcontroller unit controls the wireless transmission of the ECG data to a computer within a range of 10m.

An optional memory module enables data logging for applications in which the receiving computer is not in the neighborhood allows patients to remain ambulatory and continue their routine daily activities while under observation. The embedded beat detection algorithm copes with the artifacts inherent to ambulatory monitoring systems.

The ECG necklace debuted at the IEEE Engineering in Medicine & Biology Conference (EMBC) in Minneapolis, MN.