Solution
Using an open drain buffer like the 74LVC1G07
did the trick. Note that this part only works for inputs with a pull-up resistor. There are other parts from the same lineup that can work with any input.
Problem
I have an ebike computer that has two inputs that accept square wave signals. The range is 0-5V. One of the inputs has no pull-up/down resistors on it. When I hook up a device producing signal, the signal is detected correctly. Both highs and lows are detected correctly. The other input has a built-in pull-up resistor. When I hook the same signal to it, only the high side is detected. Measuring the voltage of the low side, it's a bit higher than when hooked to the other input and I'm guessing it isn't crossing the low threshold the computer expects in order to register the low.
Am I right in thinking that the pull-up resistor is increasing the lows?
Is it possible to counteract the internal pull-up resistor by hooking a pull-down resistor to the input?
I'm a software guy with decent soldering skills and minimal knowledge in electronics so please answer like I'm not the brightest electronic bulb on the tree.
Thank you in advance!
Cross-posting my question from StackExchange.
Thanks for the explanation!
I measured the signal generator alone, not connected to the input. It goes to 4.5V high and 0.001V low. Then I connected it to the input and measured at the input. I got 4.5V high and 1.1V low.
Also I ordered the 74LVC1G07 buffer along with a breakout board which should allow me to hook it up inline and test. I'll report back when I do.
It should do the trick I think. If you are working on electronics a lot, you may consider buying a breadboard and variety of resistors, capacitors and nmos, pros, bjt transistors in bulk for quick fixes instead of waiting for orders to proceed. Have fun
It works!
I just built this monstrosity, tested and the signal is correctly detected by the computer. 👌
Now I just need to wire it properly.
Well done, good to hear