STMicroelectronics’ ST1VAFE3BX combines a biopotential-signal input, a three-axis accelerometer and embedded processing in a small component for wearable-device developers. It is not a finished watch, ring or medical device: ST describes a sensor chip intended for products such as fitness bands, connected rings and body-worn patches.
What is the ST1VAFE3BX?
ST announced the ST1VAFE3BX on October 28, 2024, as a biosensing component for healthcare and fitness wearables. Its vertical analog front end (vAFE) acquires biopotential signals, while the accelerometer measures movement. ST says the two channels are synchronized, allowing movement data to add context when a device processes biosignals. The chip also contains a finite state machine and machine-learning core for on-device sensor processing, which can reduce reliance on a host microcontroller for some functions.
These functions support signal acquisition and processing; they do not, by themselves, establish a medical diagnosis or reveal a wearer’s mental state. ST’s announcement describes intended applications, not independently validated health outcomes. ST’s launch announcement and product page provide the company’s descriptions and specifications.
What does the chip integrate?
The combination of biopotential sensing and motion measurement is intended to let a wearable collect both types of data in one package. The motion channel may provide context for interpreting biosignals, while embedded logic and machine-learning hardware provide options for processing sensor data on the device. The specific algorithms and health conclusions depend on the device maker’s implementation; the chip’s specifications alone do not validate them.
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ST’s published specifications
| Specification | ST-listed value |
|---|---|
| Biopotential-channel ADC | 12-bit |
| Analog hub/vAFE output data rate | Up to 3,200 Hz |
| Accelerometer output data rate | 1.6 Hz to 800 Hz |
| Accelerometer selectable ranges | ±2g, ±4g, ±8g or ±16g |
| Package | 12-lead LGA; maximum dimensions 2.0 × 2.0 × 0.74 mm |
| Typical current, high-performance mode | 48.1 µA |
| Typical current, power-down | 2.6 µA |
| Operating temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
These are manufacturer specifications, not independent test results. See ST’s ST1VAFE3BX product page for its published details and status.
Which wearable products could use it?
ST names smartwatches, sports bands, connected rings and smart glasses as possible applications. It also points to body-worn patches for lifestyle or medical monitoring. These are target device categories, not confirmation that products in each category are shipping or clinically validated.
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In its October 28, 2024 announcement, ST identified BM Innovations GmbH and Pison as customers developing products with the sensor. That announcement establishes development activity at the time, not commercial availability or measured product performance.
Is the ST1VAFE3BX available?
ST announced the part as in production on October 28, 2024, and its product page currently lists it as active and in volume production. ST’s eStore lists the ST1VAFE3BXTR for sale and displays quantity-based pricing and stock information; both can change, so consult the current store listing for a current quote.
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- 3pcs Heart-Rate Sensor Module , MAX30102 Blood Oxygen Sensor, Compatible with Arduino STM32
- The standard I2C compatible communication interface can transmit the collected data Compatible with Arduino, KL25Z and other microcontrollers for heart rate and blood oxygen calculation.
- MAX30102 is an integrated module of heart rate monitor biosensor. It integrates a red LED with an infrared LED, a photoelectric detector, an optical device, and a low noise electronic circuit with ambient light suppression;MAX30102 uses a 1.8V power supply and an independent 5.0V power supply for internal LED
- it can be used to a wearable device for heart rate and blood oxygen collection, worn on fingers, ear lobes, wrists and other places.
- The chip can also turn off the module by software, and the standby current is close to zero, so that the power supply can always be maintained.
ST’s launch announcement gave a starting price of $1.50 for orders of 1,000 units in October 2024. That is dated launch pricing, not a current price quote.
How can developers evaluate the chip?
ST documents the STEVAL-MKI250KA demonstration kit as a companion for development. Its listed components include a sensor board, electrode boards and a microcontroller that connects the sensor to a PC. Developers can use it with ST’s MEMS Studio graphical interface or custom software routines; the kit documentation lists ECG monitoring as a feature.
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- Review the STEVAL-MKI250KA evaluation-kit page for the board contents and current availability.
- Use the kit’s sensor board and electrodes to connect the ST1VAFE3BX to the microcontroller and PC, following ST’s kit documentation.
- Explore the data in MEMS Studio or develop custom software routines, then assess the signals and processing in the context of the intended wearable design.
What to verify before choosing it
For a product decision, distinguish what the chip provides from what a finished wearable must prove. Check that its sensing inputs, data rates, power specifications, package and development tools fit the design, then evaluate the product’s own algorithms and intended use. ST’s component information and development activity do not independently establish clinical performance or health benefits.
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- 3pcs Heart-Rate Sensor Module , MAX30102 Blood Oxygen Sensor, Compatible with Arduino STM32
- The standard I2C compatible communication interface can transmit the collected data Compatible with Arduino, KL25Z and other microcontrollers for heart rate and blood oxygen calculation.
- MAX30102 is an integrated module of heart rate monitor biosensor. It integrates a red LED with an infrared LED, a photoelectric detector, an optical device, and a low noise electronic circuit with ambient light suppression;MAX30102 uses a 1.8V power supply and an independent 5.0V power supply for internal LED
- it can be used to a wearable device for heart rate and blood oxygen collection, worn on fingers, ear lobes, wrists and other places.
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