Switching high current help.

Thread Starter

98QuadCabV10

Joined Oct 20, 2012
12
Hello,

I'm working on a project trying to switch two sets of lights on and off alternating. The voltage is 120 vac and about 7 amps. They will switch on and off two times every second. My question is, is there anything else I can use to switch these two circuits becides a relay that can handle this large of a load? I'm new to circuits. Thanks for any help.
 

BSomer

Joined Dec 28, 2011
434
Yes, there is something other than a relay that can do what you would like and be more reliable. Relays generally are not designed to switch loads on and off in a rapid sequence so you will end up replacing them often. Key words to google are: SCR, Triac, Thyristor. All of those are are roughly the same thing, sort of. They are discrete semiconductor devices designed to switch AC loads.
 
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