Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Yes—HealthyPi 5 can record biosignal data to a microSD card or stream it wirelessly without a Raspberry Pi. Attach it to a Raspberry Pi when you want the Pi to receive and process real-time signals. Its core measurements are ECG, respiration, PPG, SpO₂ and body temperature; it is an education, research and development board, not a medical device.
What HealthyPi 5 measures
ProtoCentral describes five primary signals. The board uses separate front ends for electrical and optical measurements, plus a temperature sensor:
- ECG: measured with a Maxim MAX30001 analog front end.
- Respiration: derived from the same MAX30001 front end used for ECG.
- PPG and SpO₂: measured with a TI AFE4400 using red and infrared channels.
- Body temperature: measured with a Maxim MAX30205 connected over Qwiic/I²C.
ProtoCentral’s 2026 repository lists 128 samples per second, an 18-bit ECG converter, a 22-bit PPG converter and board dimensions of 75.5 × 56 × 17 mm. These are manufacturer specifications, not independent performance measurements.
Can HealthyPi 5 work without a Raspberry Pi?
Yes. The RP2040 microcontroller acquires and processes sensor data, while the ESP32-C3 handles Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). The board can log data to its onboard microSD slot or stream wirelessly without an attached Pi. USB provides another way to connect the board to a computer.
#1 Best Overall
- The Sense HAT (B) is specially designed for Raspberry Pi, integrates multi powerful sensors such as gyroscope, accelerometer, magnetometer, barometer, temperature and humidity sensor, etc. It is communicated via I2C interface, and allows to connect more external sensors if you need.
- Trying to make the Pi become a robot that can detect movement and orientation? Or using the Pi to collect environmental temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure data? This HAT would be your ideal choice.
- Standard Raspberry Pi 40PIN GPIO extension header, supports Raspberry Pi series boards Onboard ICM20948 (3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis gyroscope, and 3-axis magnetometer), detects movement, orientation, and magnetic
- Onboard SHTC3 digital temperature and humidity sensor, allows monitoring the environment Onboard LPS22HB barometric pressure sensor, allows monitoring the environment Onboard TCS34725 color sensor, identifies the color of nearby object
- Onboard ADS1015 ADC, 4-ch 12-bit precision, AD expansion to support more external sensors Brings I2C control pins, for connecting other host boards like STM32 Comes with development resources and manual (examples for Raspberry Pi/STM32)
In HAT mode, connect the board through its 40-pin Raspberry Pi HAT connector. A Raspberry Pi application can receive the real-time signals, and the Pi can provide host-side processing or display. That setup is optional: the board’s standalone logging and wireless options do not require a Pi.
How the four operating modes differ
ProtoCentral’s functionality documentation groups use into four modes. Choose based on where you want the data to go:
Rank #2
- [All-in-One Audio & Display Expansion] Elevate your Raspberry Pi projects with the Whisplay HAT. It seamlessly integrates a high-performance audio codec, an onboard speaker, dual microphones, and a vibrant 1.69-inch color LCD (240x280 resolution) into a single, compact board. Perfect for building smart speakers, voice assistants, and creative media terminals.
- [Perfect Match for Pi Zero & More] Designed with the exact same form factor (65mm x 30mm) as the Raspberry Pi Zero and Zero 2 W, this expansion board fits flawlessly into handheld and ultra-portable setups. It is also fully compatible with Raspberry Pi 5 via the standard 40-pin GPIO header.
- [High-Fidelity Audio System ] Powered by an integrated high-quality audio codec with dual microphones and onboard speaker for accurate voice capture, and a PH2.0 expansion interface for external speaker connection—ideal for voice recognition, AI chatbots, and high-quality audio playback.
- [Developer Friendly & Programmable] Equipped with programmable physical buttons to trigger scripts or custom functions, RGB LEDs add visual appeal and status cues to your projects. Comes with full Python drivers, open-source documentation, and ready-to-run GitHub examples to kickstart your next AI or IoT project.
- [Zero Soldering, Easy Installation] Simply plug the Whisplay HAT directly onto your Pi's 40-pin GPIO pins and start creating. Note: Please handle by the edges of the PCB to avoid pressing or putting heavy pressure on the fragile glass screen.
| Mode | Data path | What it is for |
|---|---|---|
| USB streaming | HealthyPi 5 to a computer over USB | Wired connection to a host computer. |
| BLE streaming | HealthyPi 5 to a phone over Bluetooth Low Energy | Wireless streaming to a phone. |
| Data logging | HealthyPi 5 to onboard microSD | Recording without relying on a connected host. |
| Display streaming | HealthyPi 5 to a browser over Wi-Fi | Viewing streamed data in a browser. |
The RP2040 acquires the signals and passes data over an internal link to the ESP32-C3 for wireless transmission. BLE and Wi-Fi are therefore distinct routes: BLE is described for phone streaming, while Wi-Fi supports browser display streaming.
What you need for a setup
Standalone recording
Use the HealthyPi 5 board and a microSD card for onboard logging. The documentation identifies the onboard slot and logging capability, but does not state a required card capacity, speed class or filesystem. Choose those details only after checking the current product documentation for your intended setup.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #3
- This series of products are LoRa modules using the new generation of SX1262 RF chip, with the features of long communication distance and strong anti-interference ability. This version includes GNSS antenna.
- Suitable for Sub-GHz frequency band network, 850~930MHz frequency band. The new generation SX1262 has higher power efficiency and longer transmission distance than the SX1278.
- Combined with a LoRa gateway, it can be connected to servers such as TTN to build a LoRaWAN network. Onboard L76K module with GPS/BD support, provides accurate clock and location info for node module.
- with Raspberry Pi 40PIN GPIO header, compatible with Raspberry Pi 5/4B/3B+/Pi3B/2B/Raspberry Pi Zero WH/Zero 2W,etc.
- Onboard button cell holder, supports ML1220 rechargeable cell, for preserving ephemeris information and hot starts. Onboard 4 LED indicators for module operating status.
Wireless streaming
Use the board and a compatible receiving device: a phone for BLE streaming or a browser-equipped device for Wi-Fi display streaming. A Raspberry Pi is not a prerequisite for either wireless route.
Raspberry Pi HAT use
Use a Raspberry Pi host computer with the board’s 40-pin HAT connector, and an application that receives the real-time signals. Verify that the specific Pi model and software suit your intended configuration; the available product information does not establish compatibility details for every Pi model.
Rank #4
- HIGH PERFORMANCE: Features 26 TOPS (Trillion Operations Per Second) AI acceleration capability through the Hailo AI Accelerator for advanced machine learning applications
- COMPATIBILITY: Specifically designed for the Raspberry Pi 5, connecting via PCIe interface for optimal data transfer and processing speeds
- COMPACT DESIGN: Measures 65mm x 56.5mm, offering a space-efficient solution while maintaining full functionality as an AI acceleration add-on board
- TEMPERATURE RANGE: Operates reliably in temperatures from 0°C to +50°C (32°F to 122°F), ensuring stable performance in various environments
- SEAMLESS INTEGRATION: Functions as a HAT (Hardware Attached on Top) add-on board, providing plug-and-play compatibility with Raspberry Pi ecosystem
Connecting sensors or adding a display
The board includes Qwiic expansion connectors for additional I²C sensors, with GSR, EEG and EMG given as examples of possible expansions. A carrier/display configuration can add isolated USB, a screen and enclosure options depending on the kit. Optional accessories may include ECG cables and electrodes, a Nellcor-compatible SpO₂ probe or a temperature probe; confirm the accessory’s compatibility with the exact board and kit.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choosing standalone, HAT or carrier/display deployment
| Choice | Host and transport | Recording and integration |
|---|---|---|
| Standalone board | No Pi required; USB, BLE or Wi-Fi routes are available. | Onboard microSD supports logging; board can be used on its own. |
| Raspberry Pi HAT | A Raspberry Pi connects through the 40-pin HAT connector and receives real-time signals. | The host application handles received data; storage depends on the host application. |
| Carrier/display configuration | Depends on the chosen kit and configuration. | Can add isolated USB, a screen and enclosure options. |
The practical decision is whether you want the board to log or stream independently, or need a Pi to run a host application. Qwiic expansion and physical accessories are separate configuration choices rather than requirements for the five core signal types.
Best Value
- Unterstützt einspurige PCIe 2.0-Schnittstelle (500 MB/s Spitzenübertragungsrate)
- Unterstützt Geräte, die den M.2-M-Key-Edge-Anschluss verwenden. Unterstützt Geräte mit dem Formfaktor 2230 oder 2242
- Kann angeschlossene M.2-Geräte mit bis zu 3 A versorgen. Inklusive Power- und Aktivitäts-LEDs
- Entspricht der Raspberry Pi HAT+ Spezifikation
- Lieferung mit Flachbandkabel, 16 mm Stapelkopf, Gewindeabstandshalter und Schrauben und gerändelter Doppelflanschschraube zur Sicherung und Unterstützung des M.2-Peripheriegeräts
Is HealthyPi 5 a medical device?
No. ProtoCentral warns: “HealthyPi 5 is not a medical device. It is not certified for diagnosis, treatment or any clinical use, and must never be relied on for medical decisions — it is for education, research and development only.” Do not treat its readings as clinically validated diagnoses or use them to make medical decisions.
When the board is connected to a person, the documentation advises using battery power or properly isolated power. Treat power isolation as a safety requirement for the setup, not as evidence that the device is medically certified.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
