Using arduino inputs more reliably

Clarification: Seat pads are effectively momentary switches that are normally closed, and open when the person sits. When the switch is closed, the corresponding Arduino pin is connected to +5v, so High?

Also: it is basically impossible for me to modify the pads themselves. Not because I’m unable, but because they are quite expensive, and I want to be able to buy more and use them with out modification.

Ok, pull-up/pull-down resistors…

You just connect pins 1-5 to ground each with a pull-down, and then it shouldn't stay floating?

@DVDdoug I am very interested in a software only approach if possible. Could you elaborate on:

@SteveMann This is a hardware question, but I did forget to state the pinMode: all pins relevant to the seats are set to input