Sensors for pulse measurement use a piezo-electric element that converts the force applied to the active surface of the sensor into an electrical analog signal. The sensor is put on your finger.
The active surface of Finger Pulse Transducers uses a piezoelectric device to convert force into an electrical analog signal. They are perfect for analyzing heart rate in the classroom.
TN1012/ST
Directly attaches to any input on a PowerLab Pod (8-pin DIN).
You can also visit site of the manufacturer.