60-Hz Interference in Electrocardiography

Abstract

One of the major problems encountered in recording ECG's is the appearance of unwanted 60-Hz interference in the output. This paper examines the many possible sources of interference, and for each provides a description, an identifying test, and a remedy. Then we look at possible equipment imperfections and guidelines for amplifier design to aid in the evaluation of new developments in the field of electrocardiography. As an illustrative example, we apply the procedure for isolating the source of interference to an exposition display in which each visitor could rapidly view his own ECG.