ARDUINO |  EMG ELECTRODE PROJECT

In this project, you’ll learn how to use the AD8232 bio-signal sensor to monitor muscle activity and display the results using an Arduino Uno. This same module is typically used for ECG heart monitoring, but it can also detect electrical signals generated by muscle contractions — a concept known as electromyography (EMG).

Safety Note

• Only use adhesive skin-safe electrodes
• Do not apply to broken skin or near the heart
• Always disconnect power before removing electrodes

SECTION 1 | MATERIAL NEEDED

• ​Arduino Uno or compatible board x 1
• AD8232 ECG/EMG module x 1 - or equivelant module
• Electrode pads x 3 - Typically included with the module
• Jumper wires x 6 - Female-to-male for module
• Breadboard (optional) x 1 - For stable connections
• USB cable x 1 - To upload and view data

SECTION 2| THE PRINCIPLES

• Muscle movements generate small electrical impulses.
• The AD8232 amplifies and filters these signals so the Arduino can read them.
• The Arduino reads the voltage and outputs it as a number between 0–1023.
• When you contract your muscle, you’ll see a spike or change in the readings.

SECTION 3 | THE CONNECTIONS

AD8232 Pin	Connect To	Description
GND	Arduino GND	Ground
3.3V or 5V	Arduino 3.3V or 5V	Power (depends on your module)
OUT	A0	Analog output of the muscle signal
LO+	D10	Lead-off detection +
LO-	D11	Lead-off detection -

SECTION 3 | THE CODE

• MUSCLE SENSORS

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SECTION 4 | CHALLENGE

Once your signal is working, try these:

• Turn on an LED when the signal goes above a threshold.
  
• Move a servo motor when you flex your bicep.
  
• Control a game or robot with simple muscle gestures.
  
• Log data to a CSV file using a Python script or Arduino Serial Logger.
  

SECTION 5 | CHALLENGE

Ready to take this further?

• Combine this with servo motors to make a muscle-controlled arm!
  
• Build a gesture recognition system using multiple AD8232 sensors.
  
• Integrate it with Python or web-based dashboards for real-time display.