A 12V relay is a vital component in electrical systems, commonly used to control high-voltage circuits with low-voltage signals. This article aims to explore the fundamental principles of 12V relays, their components, and their applications in everyday electronics and industrial automation.

What is a 12V Relay? A relay is essentially an electrically operated switch, used to control the connection between two circuits. A 12V relay operates at a 12V input voltage and is typically employed to control a load circuit that may operate at a higher voltage or current. The relay allows a low-power control signal, such as from a microcontroller or a low-power switch, to turn on or off devices that require much higher power, like motors, lights, or heavy-duty equipment. The core function of a relay is simple yet powerful： it enables the transfer of control from one circuit to another through electrical isolation, thus protecting sensitive components from potentially dangerous high voltages or currents.