A 12 volt relay is an electromechanical switch that allows a low voltage signal, such as 12 volts, to control a higher voltage or current in a circuit. The basic operation of a relay involves an electromagnet that, when energized, creates a magnetic field. This field causes a set of contacts inside the relay to either open or close, completing or interrupting the circuit. This simple yet effective mechanism makes relays crucial in systems that require isolated control of high-power components with a low-power signal.

    The Working Principle of a 12 Volt Relay

    At its core, a 12 volt relay operates through a coil of wire (electromagnet) and a set of contacts. When 12 volts is applied to the coil, it generates a magnetic field that pulls the armature, causing the contacts to either close or open, depending on the relay's configuration. These contacts control the flow of electrical current in a connected circuit, effectively switching the high-power side with the low-power control signal.