How Does A 12 Volt Relay Work

What happens inside a relay isn t magic but it is important.

How does a 12 volt relay work.

Relays in general are used to enable a low amperage circuit to switch on or off a higher amperage circuit like turning on your headlights. Automotive relays and how they work automotive relays of all shapes and sizes can be found in just about every car truck and even boats. A relay is essentially a switch that is operated electrically rather than mechanically. Although there are various relay designs the ones most commonly found in low voltage auto and marine applications are electro mechanical relays that work by activating an electromagnet to pull a set of contacts to make or break a circuit.

What is a relay. Let s start by looking at a datasheet for an ad pr40 1c 12d 12v relay which is an open style power relay. A datasheet is a document with detailed specifications of a component. Understanding how the relay works will help with diagnosis and modifications to vehicle systems.

Relays are switches controlled by electrical power like another switch computer or control module. They also provide the ability to switch multiple circuits including different voltage types within. However the real benefit behind a relay is more than just automation.