A 12V relay is an essential component in many electrical circuits, providing a simple and effective way to control high-voltage devices with a low-voltage signal. It acts as an electrical switch, enabling the operation of devices like motors, lights, and appliances that require higher voltages than what your low-voltage control circuits can handle. In this article, we will explore the workings, types, and common applications of a 12V relay, as well as how to choose the right relay for specific tasks.

What is a 12V Relay? At its core, a relay is an electromagnetic switch. It consists of a coil of wire, an armature, and one or more contacts. When a voltage is applied to the coil, it creates a magnetic field, which pulls the armature and changes the state of the contacts. This allows the relay to either close or open the circuit it controls, allowing current to flow or cutting off the power. A 12V relay specifically refers to a relay that operates with a 12V direct current (DC) voltage across its coil. When the coil receives the 12V signal, it activates the switch, allowing the relay to control a higher power circuit, which may be running on 120V or 240V AC (alternating current) or a higher DC voltage.