Voltage Fluctuations in Arduino-opamp-thermistor circuit

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on voltage fluctuations in an Arduino-opamp-thermistor circuit utilizing the AD623 instrumentation amplifier. The user reports erratic voltage readings, ranging from 0.01-2 volts, despite stable measurements from the voltage source and thermistor when tested independently. The fluctuations appear oscillatory and random, prompting inquiries about potential causes, including the concept of a floating ground. The user is advised to review the AD623 application information and consider testing with a controlled input voltage.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Arduino programming and interfacing
  • Familiarity with op-amps, specifically the AD623 instrumentation amplifier
  • Knowledge of thermistor operation and characteristics
  • Basic concepts of electrical grounding and noise in circuits
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the AD623 application information for design considerations
  • Learn about floating ground issues and how to mitigate them
  • Test the circuit with a stable input voltage source to isolate the problem
  • Explore filtering techniques to reduce voltage noise in analog circuits
USEFUL FOR

Electronics hobbyists, Arduino developers, and engineers troubleshooting voltage stability issues in sensor circuits.

ktizzle
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I'm working on a board that takes measurements of voltage off a thermistor through an arduino and amplified by an opamp (really an instrumentation amp AD623), also there are two potentiometers (picture of schematic attached).

I've been receiving some very strange voltage fluctuations that I can't seem to isolate to any particular component. I've tested both the voltage source and the thermistor independently of the circuit and they are both stable.

Attached is a graph, and on the bottom of the pic you can see the fluctuations over time with no change implemented in the system. At times they look almost oscillatory, but then stabilize at a random voltage before jumping around again. example, would go from 0.01-0.06 volts, jump around 0.3-0.4 volts, and occasionally go as high as 1-2 volts (With no change to the thermistor!)

I was wondering if anyone had any ideas for what is causing the noise/fluctuations. Also, I've heard of a floating ground (not sure what that is), and I was wondering if that was an issue here.
 

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