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prop1 to close an external NO switch

Started by ChrisBartram, June 27, 2009, 05:57:50 PM

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ChrisBartram

I've got a PROP1 setup with some other goodies already (including triggering a solenoid so the power switch is in position 2 to pass my 12v power supply to the solenoid plus a small 12v LED spotlight).

In the same prop I also need to close an external switch (i.e. simply complete the circuit without introducing any current); I'm tapping into a pushbutton switch on another device.

Do I have to use an RC-4, or can I somehow do this without adding more hardware?

TIA!

JonnyMac

If I understand you correctly you simply need add a relay to one of the outputs and use the N.O. contacts across your switch.  Am I missing something?  If the N.O. switch that you're jumping across is switching 120 VAC (e.g., a fogger remote) then you can use an RC-4 plus a relay -- but for one circuit a common 12v relay with 10A contacts will be more cost-effective.
Jon McPhalen
EFX-TEK Hollywood Office

ChrisBartram

Yes, that was it. Was hoping I didn't have to spring for an RC-4 and crydom relay just to trigger the one switch.

OTOH I've never used just a simple relay on the PROP1 before... I'll need to search around for details on how that works.

Thanks!
-Chris

JonnyMac

It's as easy as connecting a valve: one lead to V+ the other lead to the OUTx terminal that you want to control it.  When the output is on (e.g., with HIGH command) the relay will close, when off (e.g., with LOW command) the relay will open.
Jon McPhalen
EFX-TEK Hollywood Office

BigRez

June 29, 2009, 06:35:54 PM #4 Last Edit: June 29, 2009, 06:40:25 PM by bigrez
They're pretty simple to hook up and use, but personally I'll spend a little more to get a functional component rather than having to assemble something myself and having a few stray parts to mount.

I've found a device on eBay (search for "2 relay board") that is a neat little two-relay board.  I bought and have used a couple of them and they're easy to use. Sure it costs more (about $14 delivered), but it's a nice, neat, concise package that connects directly to the prop controller power and pins.  It'll switch either DC or AC, and has a choice of a few different input voltages.