Simulation-Based Evaluation of AC vs DC Electrodermal Activity Measurement Circuits for Long-Term Wearable Applications

Amir Mohammad Karimi Forood, Hugo F. Posada-Quintero

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Keywords: Electrodermal Activity (EDA), LTspice Simulation, Signal Stability and Wearable Sensors

TL;DR: We simulated AC vs. DC EDA circuits using LTspice. DC-EDA starts accurate but fails over time due to polarization. AC-EDA stays stable and reliable throughout, making it better for long-term wearable monitoring.

Abstract: Electrodermal activity (EDA), an electrical manifestation of the sympathetic innervation of the sweat glands, is widely used in long-term physiological monitoring, including sleep, stress, and cognitive studies. DC-source devices are more commonly used for recording EDA due to their simplicity, while AC alternatives are less adopted because of their perceived complexity. However, maintaining low noise and ensuring signal stability over extended durations remains a significant challenge. This study uses LTspice simulations to compare AC and DC constant current EDA circuits under identical conditions. The electrode–skin interface is modeled using a Randles cell, and real EDA recordings are time-compressed to modulate tissue resistance. Results show that both AC and DC circuits perform comparably well in short-term recordings; however, over time, DC signals degrade due to electrode polarization in the Randles cell model, while AC remains stable and continues to capture EDA reliably.

Track: 2. Sensors and systems for digital health, wellness, and athletics

NominateReviewer:

Dr. Hugo Posada-Quintero
Email address: [e-mail]

Submission Number: 130