A relay will generally have a coil, pole terminal and a set of contacts. The set of contacts that are open when the relay is not energized are identified as normally open (N/O) contacts and the set of contacts that are closed when the relay is not energized are identified as normally closed (N/C) contacts.
The following steps can be used to perform the testing of the relay using a multimeter from Circuitstoday.com:
- Keep the multimeter in the continuity check mode.
- Check for continuity between the N/C contacts and pole.
- Check for discontinuity between N/O contacts and the pole.
- Now energise the relay using the rated voltage. For example use a 9V battery for energising a 9V relay. The relay will engage with clicking sound.
- Now check for continuity between N/O contacts and pole.
- Also check for discontinuity between N/C contacts and pole.
- As a final test, measure the resistance of the relay coil using a multimeter and check whether it is matching to the value stated by the manufacturer.
If all the above tests are positive we can conclude that the relay is healthy.
A relay is basically a switch but not like a switch that's on a wall. A wall switch relies on someone to flip it which will then control a light or some other type load. Relays have many purposes and are used in a variety of ways such as electronic circuit boards, machines, appliances, automobiles and the list can go on.
Get tips on how to wire a relay at How-to-wire-it.com.
With the price of gas going up at a rapid rate, people are looking for ways to cut back on automotive expenses. When it comes to routine maintenance, most people will take their cars to the mechanic to get things done. However, doing routine maintenance on your own is a great way to reduce the amount of money you spend on your car each month.
Here are eleven car maintenance tasks you can do yourself from Money.usnews.com.