4. MicroPython unstable ADC readings +/- 5% between reads

MicroPython unstable ADC readings +/- 5% between reads

  • P

    Using Arduino, readings were stable, but with Micropython & UIFlow, the ADC is unaccurate with variations up to +/- 5% between each adc0.read()

    Also, when M5Stack is alone, not a single pin connected, I see occasional jumps to raw 150 or more (max 4095) instead of expected steady 0.

    Did you experience similar behaviour ?
    How can we fix this ?

    Context
    M5Stack Core1 + uiflow
    Reading voltage drop by a water pressure sensor with 4-20mA through a 147 Ohms resistance. Power is 24V switching power supply, I added a 4700µF capacitor on the PSU. Reading every 1s.

    Code slice (uiflow)

    adc0 = machine.ADC(35)
# Maximum attenuation for 0.17 to 3.10V Range
adc0.atten(machine.ADC.ATTN_11DB)

while True:
  adc_raw = adc0.read()
  label_adcraw.setText(str(adc_raw))
  # Just for info
  # Converts the raw value to the range of the sensor (0-300cm water column pressure)
  # Values adjusted after some testing.
  height = int((((adc_raw - 530) / (3600 - 530)) * 300))
  label_height.setText(str(height))
  wait_ms(1000)

    Probably irrelevant details

    • TL-136 Liquid Level Sensor Detector Liquid Level Transmitter 24VDC 4-20mA Signal Output
    • Using independant PSU for the sensor and the M5Stack Core1
    • Using pin 35 for ADC
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