The MAX30100 is an advanced optical biosensor that combines heart rate monitoring and blood oxygen saturation (SpO₂) detection in a single compact module. Using dual-wavelength LED technology (IR + Red) and advanced signal processing, it provides medical-grade vital sign measurements suitable for wearables, health monitors, and fitness devices.
Core Sensor Specifications
Sensor Chip: MAX30100 (Integrated Pulse Oximetry & Heart-Rate Monitor)
Measurement Types:
- Heart Rate (HR) – Photoplethysmogram (PPG)
- Blood Oxygen Saturation (SpO₂) – Dual-wavelength oximetry
LEDs: IR (880nm) + Red (660nm) for SpO₂ detection
Photodetector: High-sensitivity ambient light rejection
Sample Rate: Up to 100Hz (programmable)
Electrical & Interface
Operating Voltage: 3.3V – 5V (logic-tolerant I²C)
Communication: I²C Interface (default address 0x57)
Current Consumption: 0.7mA – 4.2mA (adjustable LED power)
FIFO Buffer: 16-sample storage for efficient data handling
Performance Metrics
SpO₂ Range: 0% – 100% (typical accuracy: ±2%)
Heart Rate Range: 30 – 250 BPM
ADC Resolution: 16-bit
Response Time: <5 seconds (finger placement dependent)
Physical & Integration
Module Size: 16mm × 24mm
Finger Placement: Integrated LED + sensor array
Compatibility: Works with Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi
Key Advantages
✔ Dual-Mode Detection: Measures both HR + SpO₂ simultaneously
✔ I²C Interface: Simple 4-wire connection (VCC, GND, SDA, SCL)
✔ Low Power: Optimized for battery-powered wearables
✔ High Sensitivity: Works on fingertips/earlobes
Technical Insights
PPG Principle: LEDs shine through tissue; photodetector measures blood flow changes
Ambient Light Rejection: Built-in algorithm minimizes interference
Programmable Settings: Adjust LED current/sample rate for power/accuracy trade-offs
Applications
Fitness Trackers: Real-time HR/SpO₂ during workouts
Patient Monitors: Oxygen saturation tracking
Sleep Studies: Nocturnal SpO₂ variations
DIY Medical Devices: Low-cost health screening
Why Choose MAX30100?
Proven Accuracy: Used in clinical pulse oximeters
Arduino Libraries: Easy integration (MAX30100lib, SparkFun examples)
Cost-Effective: Cheaper than medical-grade modules
Pro Tip: For best results:
Apply gentle pressure (no nail polish)
Use averaging in code to smooth data
Start with 100Hz sampling for accuracy
Package Includes: 1 x MAX30100 Pulse Oximeter Heart Rate Sensor Module