Real-time ECG analysis using a TI TMSC54× digital signal processing chip

Real-time template-based correlation was implemented on the Texas Instruments TMSC5402 digital signal processing (DSP) chip to allow for the detection of abnormal QRS-complexes in electrocardiographic signals. Several novel techniques were used to achieve real-time implementation of correlation algorithms, as well as development of an automatic template generation module. The main goal was the successful development of an algorithm to rapidly and efficiently detect irregular QRS complexes. This is implemented by software embedded in a DSP chip using limited memory resources. Once the algorithm produces a favorable correlation of a normal QRS, the timer is reset (and alarm deactivated, if active) indicating a normal passage. Values of the timer and correlation threshold are also displayed on an oscilloscope to allow for visual inspection of the system while executing. This paper describes an academic undergraduate semester-long project in the implementation of an arrhythmia (abnormal beat) detector accomplished via a standard DSP chip. The bulk of the project consisted of software design, which was kept modular to facilitate the visualization of project flow and modification of individual software components. The system can easily be implemented on a small DSP, field programmable gate array (FPGA), or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The device can be bundled with a micro hard-drive to record ECG signals over a lengthy period of time in minimal space.