A multi-processor solution to real time body surface potential mapping

The authors describe a multiprocessor real-time body surface potential mapping (BSPM) system which measures 40 simultaneous unipolar electrocardiograms and the clinical 12-lead system at 500 Hz with 12-b accuracy. Data may be stored on disk, with one channel displayed continuously for monitoring and one 40-channel frame at a selected instant in each cardiac cycle, displayed in real time as an isopotential map. The system forms an integrated exercise system. The IBM PC is the system controller, commanding the treadmill to follow a preset protocol of speed and gradient. Recordings are made following a preset protocol. A selected lead is displayed continuously on the screen. From this, the heart rate is determined and displayed graphically, together with blood pressure readings, and is invaluable to the clinician conducting the test. The time of other significant events, such as onset of angina, breathlessness, and leg pain, may be recorded also