I am having a strange problem and need guidance on what may be causing this. I have a project powered by an Arduino Mega; when I supply power via USB from my computer, it works great (even my very old Mac which I believe has lower voltage USB). When I power via battery through DC barrel jack, the LCD is hard to read and the ping sensors don't operate properly. Clearly there is a power issue, but I don't know what or why. For batteries, I am using fresh AA's in a 6 x AA = 9v which is well within the input range listed for the Mega. (I've also tried a single 9v battery through the DC barrel jack, same bad result).
I am using completely separate power supplies for the rest of the project...I run a separate supply to the Adafruit Motor Shield, and a third power supply to power the servo (common ground on that one).
Any suggestions?? Anything I can measure/test as far as voltages (with correct circuit)?
Thank you for any ideas.
Power Issue USB vs. Battery Power
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- Franklin97355
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Re: Power Issue USB vs. Battery Power
Several things. Do you have grounds tied between all the parts and have you tried a 6 to 12 volt wall power supply yet? You can check the battery voltage at the batteries when it is running, there may be a sag in the power available.
Please be positive and constructive with your questions and comments.