On/Off Alternating Direct current other than a power switch?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around finding a component that can automatically alternate a DC power circuit on and off at short intervals, specifically for controlling an electromagnet. The scope includes practical applications and technical specifications related to circuit design.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Nick inquires about a part that can automatically alternate a DC power circuit on and off at short intervals.
  • Dave suggests using an oscillator or timer and requests more details about Nick's intended application.
  • Nick clarifies that he wants to control an electromagnet, turning it on for one second and off for one second repeatedly.
  • Dave proposes a solution involving a relay but notes a broken link to additional information.
  • Dave asks about the voltage of the electromagnet, assuming it to be 12V, and provides guidance on how to connect it if the voltage differs.
  • Nick expresses gratitude and mentions he will start learning about circuit diagrams.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants are generally in agreement about the need for a component to alternate the power circuit, but specific details regarding the voltage and connection methods remain to be clarified. No consensus on a specific solution has been reached yet.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks specific details about the voltage requirements and the type of electromagnet being used, which may affect the proposed solutions. There is also an unresolved issue regarding the broken link to additional resources.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in circuit design, particularly those looking to control electromagnets or similar devices with automated switching mechanisms.

Biasless
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
Hello,

I would like to know if there is a part I can buy that will alternate my dc power circuit on/off at short intervals automatically


All help much appreciated,
Cheers,
Nick
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
Biasless said:
Hello,

I would like to know if there is a part I can buy that will alternate my dc power circuit on/off at short intervals automatically

All help much appreciated,
Cheers,
Nick

yes you could with an oscillator or timer
Tell us more about what you are trying to achieve so we can help you better

Dave
 
Thanks for the help,

trying to have a electric magnet turn on/off at a regular interval

So the magnet would turn on for a second, then turn off for a second
repeating that indefinitely
 
ok you could use something like this...

attachment.php?attachmentid=36216&stc=1&d=1307430153.gif


see how you go

cheers
Dave

Yeah, sorry abt the broken link, the net crashed as I was trying to do the post
and had to wait till now when i got home from work to repost.
 

Attachments

  • Oscillator 555 and relay.gif
    Oscillator 555 and relay.gif
    3.8 KB · Views: 607
Last edited:
thanks um, the attachments broken ?
 
now the only thing you haven't said is what voltage you are running the electromagnet from ?

I have assumed 12V. if its different then the top of the relay contact can be removed from the +12V and the bottom of the electromagnet removed from the 0V and they can be put across the separate power supply for the electromagnet

Dave
 
Thanks for all your help :)

i'll start reading up on understanding circuit diagrams
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
2K
Replies
21
Views
3K
  • · Replies 42 ·
2
Replies
42
Views
6K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
37
Views
7K