For advanced users or researchers, running emWave Pro and Inner Balance simultaneously allows for a side-by-side comparison of heart rhythm patterns across different platforms. This guide explains how to set up a dual-session and what to expect from the results.
1. Hardware and Software Requirements
To compare data simultaneously, you need two independent setups. You cannot “split” the signal from a single sensor into two different applications.
- Setup A: A computer running emWave Pro or Pro Plus with a USB Sensor Module or emWave2 handheld.
- Setup B: A smartphone or tablet running the Inner Balance app with a Bluetooth (Coherence Plus) or wired sensor.
- The Link: Both must be logged into the same HeartCloud account to allow for post-session comparison in your web dashboard.
2. How to Run a Simultaneous Session
- Placement: Place one sensor on each earlobe (left and right). If using a finger sensor, use the opposite hand from your ear sensor to minimize movement interference.
- Stability: Ensure both sensors show a clean, blue/green “pulse” light or a stable black line on the computer screen before starting.
- The “Start”: Press the Start button on both the computer and the mobile app at the exact same time.
- Duration: Run the session for at least 5 minutes to get a statistically significant data set for comparison.
3. Why Do the Scores Look Slightly Different?
It is common to see a small discrepancy in the “Coherence Score” or “Achievement” between the two platforms. This is due to several technical factors:
- Processing Power: Desktop computers have higher processing speeds than mobile devices, allowing emWave Pro to calculate HRV with slightly higher resolution.
- Algorithm Scaling: The Inner Balance app is optimized for mobile hardware and may use a slightly “smoother” calculation for visual display compared to the raw data crunching in emWave Pro.
- Sensor Type: If you are comparing an older wired sensor to a newer Bluetooth Coherence Plus sensor, the newer hardware may have improved signal-to-noise ratios.
4. Analyzing the Comparison in HeartCloud
Once both sessions are finished and synced, log in to HeartCloud.com.
- Overlaying Data: In the HeartCloud dashboard, you can view your session history. By selecting the two sessions that occurred at the same time, you can compare the Coherence Ratios and Total Achievement.
- The HRV Wave: While the final “Score” might differ by a few points, you should notice that the peaks and valleys of the HRV graph align almost perfectly. This confirms that both devices are accurately reading the same physiological signal.
5. Troubleshooting Discrepancies
If the data looks completely different (e.g., one shows High Coherence and the other shows Low):
- Ear Placement: One earlobe may have better circulation than the other. Try swapping the sensors and re-running the test.
- Movement: Ensure you aren’t leaning toward one side, which can cause “artifacts” (red lines) on one sensor while the other remains clean.