Relay socket needed?

Hi,
I'm using a relay to switch the life terminal of the main socket digitally. Can I just use a thick multi core wire and solder to the NO or Common terminal of the relay? Do I need to use a relay socket like this:
**broken link removed**?
The relay is rated:
coil: 12 Vdc
contact: 5A, 240 Vac
I'm not going to use the socket if possible because of its size.

Thanks

bananasiong said:

Can I just use a thick multi core wire and solder to the NO or Common terminal of the relay? Do I need to use a relay socket like this:

Click to expand...

It all depends on the size of the "thick wire".

If you can solder it neatly to the relay terminal, and still have clearance to the adjacent terminals, it will be OK.

JimB

Yes, the one I'm using is as 'thick' as the one which is normally used for the main socket.

In that case I would go for the socket for safety reasons, it also helps when you need to replace the relay.