Troubleshooting and Tips for Using the Ear Sensor and Getting an Accurate Pulse Reading
If you are having trouble getting a correct pulse reading on the Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Display when starting a session, the following troubleshooting tips will help ensure that you get an accurate reading. Please see the Quick Start Guide for details on setting up the hardware and beginning a Session.
Positioning Tips:
Make sure the sensor cable is securely connected to the Module or your emWave2 unit. The post on the sensor cable should be fully inserted into the connector.
The software program will look for the sensor when you start it. On some systems plugging the connector in after launching the program may result in a message reading sensor cannot be found. If you see that error message, plug in the connector, ear sensor and restart the app. If necessary, restart the device.
The ear sensor should be attached directly to your earlobe. The ear sensor detects your pulse more easily if your ear is warm! You can warm your ear by briefly holding it with your hands before clipping on the sensor. Make sure that the ear sensor is positioned on the fleshy part of your ear lobe. As a general suggestion, place it as close to your cheek as possible.
Some folks may have difficulties using the ear sensor. For those folks, HeartMath also has a finger sensor available.
The sensor is a very sensitive piece of equipment so for best results getting a reading, please be still and quiet. Talking or moving reduces the accuracy of the sensor. Taking a few deep breaths before attaching the sensor may help you to relax and get a good reading.
Note: When using the ear sensor, you should always use the lapel clip so that the entire weight of the cable is not dangling from your ear. This can cause inconsistent pulse readings or red “artifacts” to display due to a poor connection. Attach the lapel clip to your clothing with enough slack left to be able to move your head without it tugging on it.
You may need to search for the optimum spot on your ear lobe by moving the sensor to another part of your earlobe or even to the other ear lobe, to get a good reading. As human beings, we are not the same on both sides of our bodies and you may get a better reading by switching to the other ear lobe. After repositioning the ear sensor, it may take a few seconds to register your pulse.
Technical Tips:
It is recommended that you use sensors and connectors purchased together to ensure compatibility.
Check for software updates frequently.
Ensure your sensor is clean. It could be as simple as a buildup of skin oil on the sensor windows. To clean the sensor, use ONLY a couple of drops of alcohol on a soft cloth, and wipe the inside/skin contact point of the sensor.
NOTE: it is imperative that the cloth not be dripping wet; if ANY liquid gets into the sensor, it will be ruined and a warranty violation.
Caution: Hardware and software purchased together will work as expected. Parts from historical or future orders are not guaranteed to be compatible. For best results, please upgrade to the latest versions of products and use sensors and connectors that are purchased together.