I'm using my Arduino to send AT commands to the ESP using the software serial library so I can upload temperature data to thingspeak. The code works flawlessly when I have the Arduino connected through USB.
The problem arises when I want to use my 5 volt rail to connect to the Arduino 5V pin so I don't have to be connected to a computer. When I do this, I get no results on thingspeak which tells me something failed. Also, when I hook it back up the the computer and send the AT commands manually using a terminal, the ESP just sends gibberish. At 9600 baud and at 15200 baud this happens. It's as if switching the Arduino to the 5volt rail bricks the ESP. I then have to reflash it with the firmware and it's good.
What could the problem be? I have caps in there to smooth out any fluctuations, the supply can supply adequate current too so what could be the issue?