Tuesday, September 19, 2023

"The Art of Electronics" #4 Boom! Putting Diodes Across Relay Coils


I think this is a good example of the practicality, and the style (BOOM!) of The Art of Electronics.  This shows very nicely how failing to put a diode across a relay coil can get you into a lot of trouble.  Boom, indeed. 

2 comments:

  1. Could never figure out why not build the diode into the relay during manufacture?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. There are some selected Omron and others that do have the built-in or "catch" diode.
      See:
      https://www.ia.omron.com/support/faq/answer/36/faq03676/
      But, true, the vast majority of DC relays do not.
      For DC relays, having it built-in could help reduce EMI during the switch transient, by have a slightly smaller current loop or "antenna" if done properly.
      73!

      Delete