random readings with nothing connected

I'm trying to make this: https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/Synthemafia/modular-synth-clock-module-diy-arduino-sm-tik-tak-bd8ded

The problem is that the clock is really unstable, to the point where it is unusable. I've read about the issues with pots and I tried averaging values to no avail. I have it all breadboarded and the strangest thing is that while the sketch is running, if I take out the pot in questions the random readings continue, even after disconnecting the jumper wires from the Arduino pins!

Is this normal? I'm completely confused

It sounds like your pot never has been properly connected to the pin you're trying to read it on i.e. the pin is just floating. Bad wire, bad breadboard connection, broken pot?

But with no information about what pot you're talking about, what code you're using etc. it's just a guess. But I can say that a properly connected pot giving constantly random readings isn't normal. Around 0 at one end and around 1023 at the other is normal.

Steve

Is this normal?

Yes, for a "floating" or unconnected Arduino input.

For the full story see Inputs

Hi,
Do you have a DMM to measure the input voltage that the pot is supposed to be supplying?

Tom.... :slight_smile: