Sean "electrically challenged" Johnson wrote:
Would some kind soul who understands electrons and their interaction with the
"smoke" concept kindly draw out in ascii graphics a simple non-relay, and a
simple relay circuit?
Well, it's been forever since I had one apart, but I'll give it a go.
/ (SWITCH)
|-------/ O---------|
| |--------)
----- ( )
--- (BATTERY) |--------)
----- | (LIGHT)
--- |
| ///
/// (GROUND)
NON-RELAY CIRCUIT (very simple)
The total current the light (or other device) draws
goes thru the connecting wires and switch in the
circuit. Which means that everything must be rated
for the amount of current the light draws. The new
flamethrower lights generally use much more current
than the old sealed beams, so all the wiring and
switches really should be upgraded (tough to do on
any car and keep it looking original).
=====================================================================
------------------|
| / |
|-------/ O---| | ____
| (SW) | | | |--------)
----- -- | | ( )
(BATT) --- (RELAY)|| \ o----- |--------)
----- -- (contacts) | (LIGHT)
--- | |
| /// ///
(GND)///
RELAY CIRCUIT
The relay part of this circuit, draws a small amount
of current to operate the coil in the relay. The
contacts of the relay and the separate wiring handle
the full load of the light or other device.
Basically, this means that only the relay contacts and
connecting wiring must be rated for the load that you
are going to use.
Relays operate like an electro magnet. As current goes
thru the coil, the contacts are closed. Remove the
current, they spring open.
I have seen relay circuits used on horns, lights and starters.
--
# Bill Evans 206-562-4505, FAX-206-562-4509
# Systems evans@c4west.eds.com
# Looking for my first car again: a 1953 MGTD
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