Relay module
Relay module
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Relay module
With many electrical systems requiring higher power than what a microcontroller can
provide, the relay module finds use in a lot of different applications. So, what exactly is
this useful little device and how does it work? In this article, you will learn the following
about the relay module:
● A relay is an electrical switch that can be used to control devices and systems
that use higher voltages. In the case of module relay, the mechanism is typically
an electromagnet.
● The relay module input voltage is usually DC. However, the electrical load that a
relay will control can be either AC or DC, but essentially within the limit levels that
the relay is designed for.
● A relay module is available in an array of input voltage ratings: It can be a 3.2V or
5V relay module for low power switching, or it can be a 12 or 24V relay module
for heavy-duty systems.
● The relay module information is normally printed on the surface of the device for
ready reference. This includes the input voltage rating, switch voltage, and
current limit.
This is important because it allows you the use a microcontroller or other low-power
device to control devices with much higher voltages and currents.
Another relay module purpose is to amplify the control signal so that it can switch the
higher currents using only a small out of power from a microcontroller.
A relay module, on the other hand, is a board that has one or multiple relays on it and
several other components to provide isolation and protection.
Because of its modular construction, this type of switching and control device can be
many different configurations. It can be a single-channel relay module for a single load
or it can be a multi-channel device with multiple relays to control several circuits.
● The typical relay module connection points include an input side that consists of
3 or 4 jumper pins, and an output side that has 3 screw terminals.
● When the control signal is applied to the input side of the relay, it activates the
electromagnet, which attracts an armature.
● This in turn closes the switch contacts on the output (high voltage) side, allowing
electricity to flow and power the device or system that is connected to it.
● To prevent flyback voltage from damaging the relay module circuit and the input
device, a diode is often placed in parallel with the electromagnet coil. This diode
is known as a flyback diode. It allows current to flow in only one direction.
● When a higher level of isolation is required, an optocoupler is used. An opto-
isolated relay module has the photoelectric device on the input side, which is
used to control the electromagnet’s switching action.
Relay modules are available with either normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC)
switch configurations.
● A NO switch is open when the electromagnet is not activated, and closed when it
is activated.
● An NC relay switch, on the other hand, remains closed by default, and only opens
when the relay is activated.
Single-
channel relay module
Conclusion
A relay module is a relay that’s been mounted on a board with other components to
provide isolation and protection. This makes them easier to use in a variety of
applications. The use of relay module devices offers a simple and convenient way to
control electrical equipment systems remotely.