I need to switch 12 vdc 10 amps on and off using 5 volts from a micro controller. I assume this is really simple - just not sure the best way to do it. Any ideas? Like I said, I am sure this is simple, I am just compeltely new to electronics.

 

Hello,

Is the 10 Amp load connected to ground or to the + 12 Volt powersupply ?
May the driver directly connected to the micro or do you want isolation ?

Greetings,
Bertus

 

it is actually a 12 volt dc motor. So I guess teh 10 amps is to power? I don't need anything fancy, I don't need to control speed, or direction, or anything... Just turn it on and off.... It is 12 volts, and draws 7 amp MAX current.

 

Hello,

Here is the isolated version I mentioned.

The FET may be a IRF540 or something.

Greetings,
Bertus

 

Hello,

Here is the isolated version I mentioned.

The FET may be a IRF540 or something.

Greetings,
Bertus

Sir is it opto-isolator which you have mentioned in the circuit ?