Nrf24l01+ problem. ( Works only when touching the pcb antena)


hi everyone,
it's been few days now, i'm "fighting" nrf24l01+ modules (black pcb, pcb "zigzag" antenna) without  success.

actually nrf24l01 modules  (15pcs) have tested 4 different arduino 3.3.v, 8 mhz pro mini, mounted on breadboard works guite , solid connection between transmitter , 2 receivers. nrf24 maniacbug library "scanner" sketch shows home wifi connection, working microwave ans other 2.4.ghz devices with.

hoever, when solder same tested modules custom pcb , copy of arduino mini pro 3.3.v, 8 mhz, i2c oled display, can't work correctly.

no matter which  sketch use, signal very  weak,  ractically 95% of packes loss @ 30cm 2m distance.

"scanner" sketch shows little of data, 90% of zeros , low signal (shows few digits between 1 , 3)

but when touch module's pcb printed antenna stroner signal, 40-50% weaker compared same module  mounted on breadboard.

arduino powered 3.7v lipo 1000mah battery.
nrf24l01 module , oled powered trough 3.3v 250mah voltage regulator.
there are  0.1uf + 10uf capasitors on voltage regulator output pin.

i have tried add: 0.1, 10, 100 uf capasitors between nrf24l01 3.3v , groung pins, no changes.
pcb tracks length  atmega 328p-au module 30-40 mm.

the voltage regulator's output volage 3.29v , seems stable.

the setup same on breadboard, doesn't works  :smiley-confuse:

i'm getting tired pull  hairs off...

any be  appreciated.

i forgot say, nrf24l01 modules on breadboard works better without decoupling capacitor between 3.3v , groud pin. on custom pcb, capasittor (or without) makes no difference.
with breadboard setup got transmission range 100-130m outdoor, 2-5% packets loss. tested on lyon city's (france) center street lot or parked vehicles on both sides of the  street, without people.

indoor 6-9 meters  trough 1 vibro-concrete wall.

with custom pcb hoever it's different story. got weak signal,  , when touching pcb etched antenna finger.
if solder sma wifi antenna nrf24l01 better result fingers, weaker setup  on breadboard.

also here few aditional details programming:
in both cases , in sketches, i'm using 250mbit transmission speed, auto acknowledge enabled, payload size 8bit, , default  pa level.
 "scanner" sketch settings without changes.

regards.


Arduino Forum > Using Arduino > Networking, Protocols, and Devices (Moderator: fabioc84) > Nrf24l01+ problem. ( Works only when touching the pcb antena)


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