Simplified Wiring with Positive 12 Volts Relay
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Triggering a Relay with a Ground
- Triggering a Relay with Positive 12 Volts
- The Benefits of Using a Positive 12 Volts Relay
- Using Light Gauge Wire and a Light Switch
- Understanding the Relay Connections
- Wiring the Relay with a Circuit Breaker
- Triggering the Relay with a Toggle Switch
- Applications of Relay Triggering
- Closing Remarks
Triggering a Relay with Positive 12 Volts
In this article, we will explore the process of triggering a relay with positive 12 volts. We will discuss the benefits of using a positive 12 volts relay, the use of light gauge wire and a light switch, understanding the relay connections, wiring the relay with a circuit breaker, triggering the relay with a toggle switch, and the various applications of relay triggering. So, let's dive in and learn how to effectively trigger a relay using positive 12 volts.
Introduction
Relays are commonly used in automotive applications for various functions, including controlling fans, lights, and other electronic devices. Traditionally, relays were triggered with a ground connection, but in some cases, triggering them with a positive 12 volts connection can offer certain advantages. In this article, we will focus on the process of triggering a relay with positive 12 volts and explore its benefits.
Triggering a Relay with a Ground
Before we delve into triggering a relay with positive 12 volts, let's briefly touch upon triggering a relay with a ground connection. This is a common method used to activate relays in automotive applications. By connecting the relay's triggering wire to the ground, the circuit is completed, and the relay is activated. However, there are situations where triggering a relay with positive 12 volts can provide a more efficient and convenient solution.
Triggering a Relay with Positive 12 Volts
When triggering a relay with positive 12 volts, instead of using the ground connection, the relay is triggered by connecting the triggering wire to a positive 12 volts source. This method allows for the use of lighter gauge wire and a light switch in the dashboard, as the actual heavy amperage is handled by the relay itself. This eliminates the need for a heavy-duty switch and heavy wiring, reducing complexity and cost.
The Benefits of Using a Positive 12 Volts Relay
There are several advantages to using a positive 12 volts relay. Firstly, it allows for the use of lighter gauge wire and a light switch, making the installation process simpler and more cost-effective. Additionally, it alleviates the need for a switch that can handle the full amperage, as the relay handles the heavy load. This increases flexibility in the choice of switches and reduces potential wiring issues.
Using Light Gauge Wire and a Light Switch
By utilizing a positive 12 volts relay, the wiring requirements are significantly simplified. Light gauge wire can be used to connect the light switch in the dashboard to the triggering wire of the relay. This eliminates the need for heavy gauge wire that would typically be required to handle the full amperage load. Additionally, a light switch can be used, which is more readily available and easier to install.
Understanding the Relay Connections
To successfully trigger a relay with positive 12 volts, it is essential to understand the various connections involved. The relay typically has five pins: 30, 85, 86, 87, and 87a. Pin 30 is connected to a fuse or circuit breaker, while pin 86 is connected to the toggle switch providing the positive 12 volts. Pin 87 is connected to the device, such as a fan, that needs to be powered, and pin 85 is connected to the ground. Pin 87a, if present, is not used in this setup.
Wiring the Relay with a Circuit Breaker
To protect the circuit and prevent any potential damage from excessive current, it is advisable to wire the relay with a circuit breaker. This ensures that if the current exceeds the specified limit, the circuit will be automatically interrupted, preventing any further damage. A 30 amp circuit breaker is commonly used in automotive applications and should be appropriately sized for the intended load.
Triggering the Relay with a Toggle Switch
Once the relay and circuit breaker are in place, the next step is to connect a toggle switch that will act as the control for triggering the relay. The toggle switch should be connected to pin 86 of the relay and supplied with positive 12 volts. When the switch is flipped, it completes the circuit, triggering the relay and enabling the flow of current to the device connected to pin 87 of the relay.
Applications of Relay Triggering
The ability to trigger a relay with positive 12 volts opens up a wide range of applications in automotive systems. From controlling fans for cooling purposes to activating lights and other electronic devices, the relay provides a reliable and efficient solution. The flexibility offered by positive 12 volts triggering allows for customization and simplification of wiring setups, making it a preferred method in many automotive scenarios.
Closing Remarks
Triggering a relay with positive 12 volts provides numerous benefits in terms of wiring simplicity, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. By utilizing a relay, light gauge wire, and a light switch, the heavy amperage load is effectively handled, resulting in a more efficient and reliable setup. Whether it's controlling fans, lights, or other electronic devices, positive 12 volts triggering offers a practical solution for automotive applications.
Highlights:
- Triggering a relay with positive 12 volts simplifies wiring and reduces complexity.
- The use of light gauge wire and a light switch makes the installation process more convenient and cost-effective.
- Positive 12 volts triggering allows for greater flexibility in switch choice and eliminates the need for heavy-duty switches.
- Understanding the relay connections is crucial for correctly setting up the triggering system.
- Wiring the relay with a circuit breaker adds a layer of protection against excessive current.
- The ability to trigger a relay with positive 12 volts opens up various applications in automotive systems.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use positive 12 volts triggering for any device?
A: Positive 12 volts triggering is suitable for various devices, such as fans, lights, and other electronic components.
Q: What is the advantage of using a relay in automotive applications?
A: Relays allow for the control of high current devices using lower current switches, offering a safer and more efficient solution.
Q: Can I use positive 12 volts triggering in non-automotive applications?
A: While the focus of this article is on automotive applications, positive 12 volts triggering can be applied in other scenarios as well, where efficient and reliable control of high current devices is required.
Q: What are the common pins used in a relay connection?
A: The common relay pins used in most setups are 30, 85, 86, 87, and 87a, with 87a typically not required in positive 12 volts triggering setups.
