Relays and solenoids, when, what and why
- Thread starter mb22567
- Start date
PursuitElectronics
Member
To be honest, I use solenoids on all of my installs. You can run high amperage through them with the turn of a key. Since all of the vehicles we build, do not have a Kussmaul Shoreline charging system, we need the entire console to shut down with the vehicle off. There is not a need to have the vehicle off and console powered up. I always use an 80amp continuous solenoid which is more than enough for a fully populated console.Our laptops are powered by a cigar plug so for the constant power needed, it has never drained the battery, but then again, all of our vehicles run throughout the day and never sit longer than 6-8hrs.
ckgarside
Member
I never like to switch high amperage (over 30 amps) with relays or solenoids. Why you ask? Because there is electrical arcing that occurs between the contacts when using relays and solenoids.
If at all possible we like to avoid the use of switching high amperage hot loads. We are able to protect the batteries by installing ignition sense and auto shutoff on all the equipment on all communications and warning equipment.
If there is no choice but to regularly switch a high current load, use a solid state connection whenever possible.
If at all possible we like to avoid the use of switching high amperage hot loads. We are able to protect the batteries by installing ignition sense and auto shutoff on all the equipment on all communications and warning equipment.
If there is no choice but to regularly switch a high current load, use a solid state connection whenever possible.