Withings Digital Stethoscope BPM Core

Introducing the Withings Digital Stethoscope BPM Core is an innovative health monitoring device that combines a blood pressure monitor with an electrocardiogram (ECG) and a digital stethoscope. This advanced tool allows users to track blood pressure, heart rate, and detect atrial fibrillation and valvular heart diseases through integrated sound analysis. With immediate color-coded feedback and seamless synchronization to the Health Mate app, it enhances personal health management. Priced at approximately $249.95, it is a valuable asset for proactive cardiovascular care.

Withings Digital Stethoscope BPM Core Box contents

• BPM Core
• Charging cable
• Instructions manual

Product Description

1. Cuff
2. Button
3. USB plug
4. Digital stethoscope 
5. Electrodes

Overview

BPM Core is not only a highly accurate smart blood pressure and heart rate monitor, it is the first connected device that can detect, in the comfort of your home, certain valvular heart diseases and atrial fibrillation, both a variety of cardiovascular diseases frequent amongst people suffering from high blood pressure, which can help prevent serious complications from progressing.

BPM Core is our most advanced health device to date, combining medical data traditionally only available in a clinical setting with a seamless design. Along with blood pressure and heart rate monitoring, the three-in-one device records ECG, which is used to identify atrial fibrillation (AFib), a serious form of irregular heart rhythm that can lead to heart failure, fatigue and shortness of breath and is a major risk for stroke. 

In addition, it provides an integrated digital stethoscope that can provide early detection of valvular heart disease, characterized by damage to one of the four heart valves that may require surgical intervention to avoid heart failure. Using the form factor of a blood pressure monitor, users can check their results in just 90 seconds along with color-coded feedback directly on the device, and they can view their complete history in the free Health Mate app via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection. Data can then be easily shared with doctors. BPM Core features a long battery life of up to 6 months and is rechargeable via micro USB cable.

Specifications

Dimensions & Weight

• Length: 560 mm (22 in.)
• Width: 165 mm (6.4 in.)
• Height: 450 mm (unfolded) (17.7 in.)
• Weight: 430 g (0.947 lb)
• Cuff Circumference: Fits arm circumferences from 22 to 42 cm (9 to 17 in)

Materials and Sensors

• ECG: Recorded via two stainless-steel electrodes located inside the cuff, and one on the tube.
• Digital Stethoscope: Silicone membrane and stainless-steel support
• Display: LED matrix screen
• Pressure Sensor: Gauge sensor
• Other Sensor: Semiconductor pressure sensor

Connectivity

• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

Storage and Memory

• Free and unlimited storage on Withings cloud
• Up to 6 measurements can be stored on the BPM Core without synchronization in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi

Technology

• Cuff Oscillometric Method
• Measurement Range: 0 to 285 mmHg, SYS 60 to 230 mmHg
• Accuracy: ±3 mmHg or 2% of reading (pressure) / ±5% of reading (pulse)
• Cuff Inflation: Automatic inflation with air pump at 15 mmHg/s

Certifications

• Medical EC approved (under review to be FDA cleared)
• 2008 ANSI/AAMI/ISO 81060-2:2013, EN ISO 81060-2:2014
• FCC part B 15B: 2013

International Standards

• European Society of Hypertension (ESH): For all countries except the USA and Canada
• American Heart Association (AHA): For the USA and Canada

Metrics

• Heart Rate Measurement Range: 40 to 180 beats per minute

Battery Life

• Up to 6 months (rechargeable) via micro-USB cable

Compatible Devices

• iPhone: 4S or higher
• Apple Watch
• iPod Touch: 5th generation or higher
• iPad: 3rd generation or higher

Compatible Operating Systems

• iOS: 10.0 or higher
• Android: 6.0 or higher

Description

The BPM Core combines the traditional role of a stethoscope with advanced digital capabilities. The device features a high-quality digital stethoscope that enhances sound quality, making it easier to detect murmurs and other abnormalities. The integrated ECG allows for instant rhythm analysis, while the built-in blood pressure cuff provides accurate blood pressure readings. The data collected is seamlessly transferred to the Health Mate app, where users can view detailed reports and track their health over time.

The device is designed with ease of use in mind, featuring a simple and intuitive interface that guides users through each measurement. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to carry, whether in a clinical setting or for personal use.

Using BPM Core

Positioning myself before and during the measurement
Make sure you follow these guidelines when taking a measurement. Failing to do so may lead to inaccurate results or cause the measurements to fail.

1. Use BPM Core on the left upper arm
2. Rest 5 minutes before the measurement.

3. Sit down in a comfortable position, legs uncrossed, feet flat or on the floor, arm and back supported.

   

4. Do not speak or move during the measurement.
5. You can wear one layer of clothes but it should not cover your left arm. The electrodes should be in contact with the skin.
6. Take the measurement in a calm and quiet area.

Taking a measurement

To take a measurement, perform the following steps:

1. Wrap the cuff around your left arm. The tube should be positioned against your inner arm.

   

2. The stethoscope should be placed so that its flat surface is in contact with your chest. The electrodes should be in contact with the skin of your left arm.

   

3. Place your arm on a table and keep it level with your heart.

   

4. Press the button to start the BPM Core. The screen displays "START".

5. Press the button again to start a measurement.

   

   Note: When you start a measurement, you can also select "Start x3" or "ECG" by swiping the light trail on the right part of the screen. "Start x3" will launch 3 blood pressure measurements in a row. "ECG" will only record your electrocardiogram and stethoscope signal.

6. When BPM Core. displays the pictogram below, you need to place your hand on the metal tube and the stethoscope against your chest. Adjust your arm position to ensure an accurate measurement.

   

7. At the end of the measurement, select the user by swiping the light trail on the right part of the screen.

8. Press the button of BPM Core to validate.
   Results are displayed on the screen of BPM Core and sent via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth in the Health Mate app.

   

Note: If you don't place your hand on the electrode, BPM Core can't record ECG and stethoscope signal. BPM Core will only display blood pressure readings.

Setup Guide

To set up the Withings Digital Stethoscope BPM Core, follow these steps:

1. Download and install the Withings Health Mate app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Pair the BPM Core with your device via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
3. Follow the in-app instructions to complete the setup process, which includes calibrating the blood pressure cuff.
4. Charge the device using the provided USB cable.
5. For ECG measurements, place your fingers on the metal sensors on the back of the stethoscope.
6. For blood pressure measurements, wrap the cuff around your upper arm and follow the on-screen instructions.

Cleaning and maintenance

Cleaning BPM Core

• Do not use an alcoholic-base or solvent agent to clean BPM Core.
• Clean BPM Core with a soft and dry cloth.
• The dirt on the cuff can be cleaned by a moisten cloth and soap.
• Do not flush BPM Core and cuff with much water.
• Do not dismantle BPM Core or disconnect the cuff or try to repair by yourself. If any problem happens, refer to the distributor.
• Do not operate BPM Core under severe environment of extreme temperature or humidity, or direct sunshine.
• Do not shake BPM Core violently.
• Do not submerge BPM Core or any of the components in water.
• Do not let BPM Core under strong shocks, such as dropping the device on the floor.

Recharging BPM Core
You can easily charge BPM Core using the charging cable provided with the blood pressure monitor. To do so, connect the USB end of the charging cable to a power source.
Factory resetting BPM Core
Performing a factory reset allows you to delete all of the data stored on it. Important: 

• Factory resetting BPM Core. will not remove any of the data that was synced from the Health Mate app.
• All data that wasn't synced before resetting BPM Core will be lost permanently.

To do this, first dissociate BPM Core from your Health Mate account. Please refer to "Dissociating" on page 32 for more information. Then, 'forget' or 'unpair' BPM Core from your mobile device's list of Bluetooth devices.
On iOS:

1. Go to Settings and select Bluetooth.
2. Select the i icon next to the BPM Core.
3. Select Forget Device to confirm.

On Android:

1. Go to Settings and select Bluetooth.
2. Select the gear icon next to the BPM Core.
3. Select Forget or Remove.

BPM Core can now be reset to factory settings. To reset BPM Core, perform the following steps:

1. Press and hold the monitor's button for 6 seconds until Training is displayed on the screen.
2. Use your finger to scroll up or down on the vertical bar on the monitor's display until Reset is displayed on the screen.
3. Press and hold the monitor's button for 2 seconds.
4. Press the button 5 times as the display counts down from 5.

BPM Core has now been reset.

Safety instructions

Use and storage

• Use BPM Core at temperatures between 10°C and 40°C (50°F and 104°F).
• BPM Core may be stored in a clean, dry location between -25°C and 55°C (-13°F and 131°F) when not in use.
• BPM Core is a digital monitor intended for use in measuring blood pressure, heart rate, to record a one derication ECG to detect atrial fibrillation, and uncover valvular heart diseases (aortic stenos, aortic regurgitation, mitral stenosis).
• BPM Core is intended to be used in a human adult population with an arm circumference between 9 inches to 17 inches (22 cm to 42 cm).
• BPM Core is a medical device.
• Contact your physician if hypertensive values, AFib or VHD are indicated.
• Store the device and the components in a clean and safe location. If storage conditions are different from the usage conditions indicated in this document, please wait 30 minutes before taking a measurement.

Safety

• Make sure you consult a doctor should the symptoms be persistent or worrying in any way.
• Do not forcibly bend the arm cuff.
• Do not inflate the arm cuff when it is not wrapped around your arm.
• Do not apply strong shocks and vibrations to the blood pressure monitor or drop it.
• Do not take measurement after bathing, drinking alcohol, smoking, exercising or eating.
• Do not immerse the arm cuff in water.
• Do not use with a pacemaker, a defibrillator or other electric implant.
• Use on adults only.
• Do not use on children or pets.

Service and maintenance

• Do not attempt to repair or modify your BPM Core on your own.
• If you can’t fix the problems using the troubleshooting instructions, request service from your dealer.
• Manufacturer will make available on requested circuit diagrams, component part lists, descriptions, calibration instructions, or other information that will assist manufacturer’s staff or authorized representative for repair.
• Do not use the device while doing maintenance steps.
• If you have any issue, feel free to contact our Customer Service at: https://support.withings.com/hc/en-us/requests/new.

Cautions

• Always consult your doctor.
• Self-diagnosis of measurement results and self treatment are dangerous.
• People with severe blood flow problems, or blood disorders, should consult a doctor before using the BPM Core.
• Cuff inflation can cause internal bleeding.
• Operational factors such as common arrhythmias, ventricular premature beats, arterial sclerosis, poor perfusion, diabetes, age, pregnancy, pre-eclampsia or renal disease can affect the performance of the automated sphygmomanometer and/or its blood pressure reading.
• BPM Core is a precision measuring equipment liable to be understood by lay user but it still should be handled with care.
• A long exposure of the device to lint, dust or sunlight might reduce its life time or damage it.
• Damaged cuff or sensor might lead to incorrect measurements.
• Parts in contact with the skin: cuff and electrodes.
• Measurements can be affected by extreme temperatures, humidity & altitude.
• Do not leave the BPM Core unattended with infants or persons who cannot express their consent.
• Do not use the BPM Core for any purpose other than measuring blood pressure.
• Do not disassemble the BPM Core.
• Do not operate the BPM Core in a moving vehicle (car, airplane).
• Do not use a cellular phone near the BPM Core.
• Do not use the device with the USB cable plugged.
• Improper continuous pressure of cuff or too frequent measurements may interfere blood flow and result harmful injury to the users. Check if the use of the BPM Core does not result in prolonged impairment of your blood circulation.
• Do not apply the cuff over the users’ arm bearing a wound or medical treatment and so on, as this can cause further injury.
• Cuff should be used on the arm on the side of a mastectomy.
• Use of the BPM Core can temporarily cause loss of function of simultaneously used equipment on the same limb.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and their solutions include:

• Connection Issues: Ensure Bluetooth or Wi-Fi is enabled on both the BPM Core and your device. Restart both devices if necessary.
• ECG Readings: Ensure fingers are placed correctly on the sensors and that skin is in good contact. Avoid moving while taking readings.
• Blood Pressure Cuff: Ensure the cuff is wrapped correctly and not too tight or too loose.
• Low Battery: Charge the device regularly to avoid running out of battery during use.

Instructions and Warnings

• Use the BPM Core in a quiet environment for best results.
• Avoid taking measurements when you are tired or under stress.
• Consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your readings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comprehensive Health Monitoring: Combines stethoscope, ECG, and blood pressure functions in one device.
• High-Quality Audio: Enhanced sound quality for better diagnostics.
• Easy to Use: User-friendly interface and simple setup process.
• Portability: Compact and lightweight design.
• Data Sharing: Seamless integration with the Health Mate app for tracking health data.

Cons

• Cost: Higher price point compared to traditional stethoscopes or individual health monitoring devices.
• Limited Compatibility: May not be compatible with all smartphone models or older operating systems.
• Dependence on App: Full functionality requires the Health Mate app, which may have occasional bugs or updates issues.

Customer Reviews

Customers have praised the Withings Digital Stethoscope BPM Core for its ease of use and comprehensive health monitoring capabilities. However, some users have noted the higher cost and occasional connectivity issues. Here are some common complaints:

• Some users find the initial setup process slightly complicated.
• A few customers have reported occasional loss of connection between the device and their smartphones.