How many volts can a 12V relay handle?

The nominal voltage of a 12V relay is 12V, so 80% of this is 12 x 0.8 = 9.6V. So in theory, this relay should activate at 9.6V.

How do I know what size relay to use?

An easy way to determine the limit of a relay is to multiply the rated Volts times the rated Amps. This will give you the total watts a relay can switch. Every relay will have two ratings: AC and DC. You should determine the AC watts and the DC watts, and never exceed these ratings.

How many amps does a 12V relay draw?

150-200 mA
Current rating The current draw of the coil is not normally shown but is typically 150-200 mA with a corresponding coil resistance of around 80-60 W.

At what amperage should I use a relay?

You will often see circuits carrying less than 20 amps switched directly, while circuits of 30-40 amps can sometimes be directly switched but will often be controlled by relays. Anything above 40 amps is pretty much always on a relay.

How many amps does a 12 volt relay draw?

What do the numbers on a 12V relay mean?

Numbers of a Relay Looking at the diagram, we see the pinout of a typical 12V relay. Note that each pin is numbered. 85 and 86 are the coil pins while 30, 87, and 87a are the switch pins. 87 and 87a are the two contacts to which 30 will connect. If the coil is not activated, 30 will always be connected to 87a.

What does 87a mean on a relay?

Numbers of a Relay Note that each pin is numbered. 85 and 86 are the coil pins while 30, 87, and 87a are the switch pins. 87 and 87a are the two contacts to which 30 will connect. If the coil is not activated, 30 will always be connected to 87a. Think of this as the relay in the Normally Closed (OFF) position.

What happens if you put a relay in backwards?

Many relays, if installed for the wrong application, could and will cause a short (Internal Relay Circuit) and most likely cause functionality issues or even damage to the vehicle computer systems.