
Using Relays — SIK Circuit 13
Consignes
Parts & Introduction
Parts & Introduction
A relay is an electrically-operated mechanical switch. A small current energizes a coil that physically moves a contact arm, switching a separate circuit. Relays can control high-power devices (motors, lights, appliances) from low-power Arduino signals. This experiment uses an SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) relay to alternate between two LEDs.
Parts Needed
- 1x Arduino Uno + USB cable
- 1x Breadboard
- 1x SPDT Relay
- 1x NPN Transistor (P2N2222A)
- 1x Diode (1N4148)
- 2x LEDs (different colors)
- 2x 330Ω Resistors
- 14x Jumper Wires
Matériaux pour cette étape :
SparkFun Inventor's Kit - V3.21 kitOutils nécessaires :
Computer with Arduino IDEHardware Hookup
Hardware Hookup
Wiring Instructions
Transistor + Relay Coil
- Connect transistor Base through 330Ω resistor to Arduino Digital Pin 2.
- Connect transistor Emitter to GND.
- Connect one side of the relay coil to transistor Collector.
- Connect other side of relay coil to 5V.
- Flyback Diode: Band (cathode) to 5V, anode to Collector.
Relay Contacts + LEDs
- Connect relay COMMON through a 330Ω resistor to 5V.
- Connect relay NC (Normally Closed) to LED 1 positive leg.
- Connect relay NO (Normally Open) to LED 2 positive leg.
- Connect both LED negative legs to GND.
Matériaux pour cette étape :
SPDT Relay1 pièce
Breadboard1 pièce
Jumper Wires8 piècesArduino Code
Arduino Code
Open the Arduino IDE and upload the following sketch to your Arduino board.
Matériaux pour cette étape :
Arduino Uno R31 pièceOutils nécessaires :
Computer with Arduino IDETest & Experiment
Test & Experiment
What You Should See
You should hear the relay clicking, and see the two LEDs alternating — one on, one off — switching every second.
Troubleshooting
- LEDs not lighting: Check LED polarity — longer leg is positive.
- No clicking sound: The transistor or coil circuit isn't working. Verify transistor orientation and coil connections.
- Relay not making good contact: The SIK relay is designed for soldering, not breadboarding. Press it firmly to ensure all pins contact.
- Confusion: Don't mix up the TMP36 temperature sensor with the transistor!
Experiments to Try
- Replace the LEDs with a motor on the NO contact — use the relay as a motor on/off switch.
- Use a button to control when the relay toggles.
- Add variable delay to create morse code patterns.
Matériaux
9- SparkFun Inventor's Kit - V3.210 % de commission1 kit€93.41
- à partir de€8.38
- à partir de€3.67
- à partir de€23.86
- 1 pièceEspace réservé
- 1 pièceEspace réservé
- 1 pièceEspace réservé
- 2 piècesEspace réservé
Outils requis
1- Espace réservé
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