How Do Relays Control Input and Output Voltage?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the functionality of relays in controlling input and output voltage, particularly focusing on their use as switches in electrical circuits. Participants explore the mechanics of relays, including their terminal configurations and the implications for voltage control.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, boox, suggests that relays can be used to control output voltage to a load based on an input voltage, referencing different configurations of relays such as single-pole single-throw and single-pole double-throw.
  • Another participant states that the output of a relay does not produce electricity, but rather shorts or opens two terminals.
  • A subsequent post clarifies that while the load will have a separate power supply, the participant is inquiring about controlling the output of that power supply with a relay.
  • Another participant mentions that to control the output voltage, the relay must be periodically turned on and off.
  • One participant expresses skepticism about the relay's capability to achieve the desired outcome and suggests that other devices might be more suitable, asking for more details about the circuit, including the type and voltage of the coil and the switched voltage.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the capabilities of relays, with some agreeing on their basic function while others question their effectiveness for specific voltage control applications. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the suitability of relays for controlling output voltage.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully defined the parameters of their circuits, such as the type of voltage (AC or DC) and specific voltage levels, which may affect the discussion's conclusions.

booxcar
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Hello all! I just had a quick question to ask about relays. I understand that you can use a relay as an input voltage-controlled on-off switch but it can also be used to control the output voltage to the load controlled by an input voltage, correct? If I am understanding everything correctly, since the pole and throw determines how many terminals there are and the number of terminals represent how many output 'configurations' can exist. So a single-pole single-throw has two terminals (Wiki says 4 terminals total if you include two terminals for the coil... don't really know what that means so for this example I'm going to ignore it :)) therefore the relay can be used as an on off switch whereas a single-pole double-throw switch (3 terminals not including the two terminals for the coil) can have a 0V 'off' output, as well as 2 more set 'on' output values. Is this correct? If so, I guess I kind of answered my own question.


Thanks,
boox
 
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The output of a relay does not produce electricity. It merely shorts or opens two terminals.
 
Yes, I understand this, the load will have a separate power supply. I was just wondering if the output of the power supply can be controlled with a relay...
 
You have to periodically turn it on and off to do that.
 
From what you've described I don't think a relay will do what you want. There are other devices that will do almost anything you can think of. If you can tell us a little more about your circuit, we'll be better able to help.

Is your coil voltage AC or DC? What voltage is it?
Likewise, is the switched voltage AC or DC and what is its voltage?
 

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