Troubleshooting My Timer: Why Won't My Relay Open and Shut?

In summary, the speaker is experiencing issues with a timer that is supposed to open and shut a relay periodically. However, the timer is not working and when they checked the output, it was directly shorted to ground. They confirm that this is not a typo and that the output is supposed to be shorted to ground. They also mention that the 555 should be able to sink the current needed for the relay to work.
  • #1
simo
19
0
Can you tell me what is wrong with my timer. I want it to make a relay open and shut periodically. For some reason it's not working.
 

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  • #2
simo said:
Can you tell me what is wrong with my timer. I want it to make a relay open and shut periodically. For some reason it's not working.

You show your output directly shorted to ground. Is that correct, or a typo?
 
  • #3
berkeman said:
You show your output directly shorted to ground. Is that correct, or a typo?

Nope, that's how I made it.

If I disconnect the output/diode junction from ground, would it sink the current?
 
  • #4
If you do the calculation from the numbers you give, the sink current would be about 11ma, so the 555 should be able to sink that.
 

1. Why is my timer not opening and shutting?

There could be several reasons why your timer is not functioning properly. It could be due to a faulty connection, a damaged relay, or a programming issue.

2. How can I test if my timer's relay is working?

You can use a multimeter to test the continuity of the relay. If there is no continuity, then the relay is most likely damaged and needs to be replaced.

3. What should I do if my timer is not turning on at all?

First, check if the power source is connected and working. If it is, then check the programming of the timer to make sure it is set to turn on at the correct time. If the programming is correct, then there may be an issue with the internal components of the timer and it may need to be replaced.

4. How can I troubleshoot if my timer is turning on but not shutting off?

This could be due to a programming issue or a faulty relay. Check the programming to make sure the timer is set to turn off at the correct time. If the programming is correct, then test the relay for continuity. If there is no continuity, then the relay may need to be replaced.

5. What can I do to prevent my timer's relay from malfunctioning?

To prevent your timer's relay from malfunctioning, make sure to regularly clean and maintain the timer. Check for any loose connections and replace any damaged parts as soon as possible. Also, avoid overloading the relay with too much power as this can cause it to fail.

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