2023-10-18
An auto power relay, also known as an automotive relay or a car relay, is an electrical switch that is commonly used in vehicles to control high current circuits. Auto power relays are designed to handle the high power demands of automotive electrical systems, such as those used for headlights, wipers, and other accessories.
Auto power relays work by using a low power signal, typically from a switch or a control module, to activate a high power switch. This allows the low power circuit to control the high power circuit, which can carry currents of up to several hundred amps. Auto power relays can help protect the low power circuit and the vehicle's wiring from damage due to high current loads, and they can also help to prevent overheating and electrical fires.
Auto power relays come in a variety of configurations, including single pole/single throw (SPST), single pole/double throw (SPDT), and multi-pole configurations. They can also be classified by their contact rating, which indicates the maximum current and voltage that they can handle. Some auto power relays also feature built-in diodes or resistors, which can help protect sensitive electrical components from voltage spikes and other electrical disturbances.