I'm using a 12volt automotive style relay for a custom project.
The coil resistance of the relay is 80ohms, this generates a decent amount of heat and may reduce the life of the relay?
The relay will stay on for long durations. How can I reduce the current to the coil and keep the voltage @ 12 volts?
The coil will switch on with as little as 9v direct from the power source, So i know it doesn't absolutely need 150ma to keep the coil activated.
The only relays I can find suitable to my price range of a max of $5 a relay have coil resistances of 155 and 80ohms. Needs to be rated for automotive use, @ 20-30amps.
Any ideas?
Should I be using something other than a relay? High power Transistor?
The coil resistance of the relay is 80ohms, this generates a decent amount of heat and may reduce the life of the relay?
The relay will stay on for long durations. How can I reduce the current to the coil and keep the voltage @ 12 volts?
The coil will switch on with as little as 9v direct from the power source, So i know it doesn't absolutely need 150ma to keep the coil activated.
The only relays I can find suitable to my price range of a max of $5 a relay have coil resistances of 155 and 80ohms. Needs to be rated for automotive use, @ 20-30amps.
Any ideas?
Should I be using something other than a relay? High power Transistor?