I have a simple breadboard circuit with a PIC, FM transmitter module and a flashing LED. The LED flashes each time the program hits the start of its infinite loop to show that the code is running.
The problem is, the PIC doesn't seem to run at all unless I am touching the circuit. Touching either side of the LED works (anode or cathode) as does any other ground. When I'm touching it I get a great signal over at the receiving circuit (verified with a logic analyser) and the LED flashes.
There is a 0.1uF capacitor across the power supply, MCLR is hooked up correctly and an LED on the power supply board is constantly lit (so the power supply & ground should be good). I am using the internal oscillator.
Now I know I don't have magic fingers, so what sort of thing should I be looking at to explain why this "fix" works? I might replace all the connections or try it on another breadboard, but I'm curious about what's happening!
Am I providing a ground? If there was a short, I would expect the power supply to cut as it usually does and that doesn't happen.
The problem is, the PIC doesn't seem to run at all unless I am touching the circuit. Touching either side of the LED works (anode or cathode) as does any other ground. When I'm touching it I get a great signal over at the receiving circuit (verified with a logic analyser) and the LED flashes.
There is a 0.1uF capacitor across the power supply, MCLR is hooked up correctly and an LED on the power supply board is constantly lit (so the power supply & ground should be good). I am using the internal oscillator.
Now I know I don't have magic fingers, so what sort of thing should I be looking at to explain why this "fix" works? I might replace all the connections or try it on another breadboard, but I'm curious about what's happening!
Am I providing a ground? If there was a short, I would expect the power supply to cut as it usually does and that doesn't happen.