I'm trying to follow this tutorial with a clone and original chip NRF24L01. I initially could only get garbage transmitted. Not real words. Then I added the filter and it won't even transmit that now. I'm checking via the serial monitor in VS Code. Both are powered from my benchtop power supply. I've double checked my connections and I'm not sure where to start on how to fix this. The only thing I can think of is the clone doesn't communicate well with the original chip. Anyone know if this is true or perhaps have an idea on what I may be doing wrong?
Try using matched boards to start. Two originals or two clones. Once you get that working, change one and see what happens.
You must use the adapter modules to insure you have ample 3.3 volt supply current for the boards you linked to since they are quite power hungry with those output amplifiers.
Have a look at this Simple nRF24L01+ Tutorial.
Wireless problems can be very difficult to debug so get the wireless part working on its own before you start adding any other features.
The examples are as simple as I could make them and they have worked for other Forum members. If you get stuck it will be easier to help with code that I am familiar with. Start by getting the first example to work
There is also a connection test program to check that the Arduino can talk to the nRF24 it is connected to.
A common problem with nRF24 modules is insufficient 3.3v current from the Arduino 3.3v pin. This seems to be a particular problem with the nano. The high-power nRF24s (with the external antenna) will definitely need an external power supply. At least for testing try powering the nRF24 with a pair of AA alkaline cells (3v) with the battery GND connected to the Arduino GND.
Plus what @WattsThat said.
...R
The "filter" you link to is actually a voltage regulator.
You say you connected both to your bench top power supply, so at what voltage..??
Those units you link to are long range so just how far are you trying to communicate between the two..?
Note that too close is just as bad as too far apart.
Show a photo of your setup.
Breadboard connections can be a right PIA also.
What is the sketch you are using..?
WattsThat:
Try using matched boards to start. Two originals or two clones. Once you get that working, change one and see what happens.You must use the adapter modules to insure you have ample 3.3 volt supply current for the boards you linked to since they are quite power hungry with those output amplifiers.
Ok, thanks. I will try that. I ordered a few more today and I'm going to try and separate their power sources completely and move them a few feet away. I'll start there... thanks.
We will be interested to learn the results as Nordic are planning to stop production of the nRF24
Who makes the clones that you are using?
...R
Yup, that was all it took. Changed out the one with the "original" chip for a clone and it works fine now.
Robin2:
We will be interested to learn the results as Nordic are planning to stop production of the nRF24Who makes the clones that you are using?
...R
Hi Robin2....seems clone units lately are causing all sorts of range problems, or rather lack of.
There is a supplier on Aliexpress (keywish) who apparently found this from feedback and replaced dodgy units, especially some which simply would not even run on 250 setting.
Some details here...... Frequency hopping experiments on the NRF24 - Page 13 - Mode Zero
Now the trend is moving more towards the shielded units which seem to be behaving themselves.
How long these will remain in circulation is another thing but I wouldn't be surprised to see some form of replacement/upgraded chip.
bluejets:
I wouldn't be surprised to see some form of replacement/upgraded chip.
Nordic's "replacements" are far more complicated and quite unnecessarily so for the things I want to do.
...R
Robin2:
Nordic's "replacements" are far more complicated and quite unnecessarily so for the things I want to do....R
No worries.
I'll keep any info to myself then next time.
bluejets:
No worries.
I'll keep any info to myself then next time.
That makes no sense - where did I criticise your contribution?
I was criticising Nordic for abandoning simple products in favour of more complex ones.
...R