Gems sensors often are used to pick up a relay, if this is the case with yours, then you need it.. The paper that came with the Gems sensor says "inductive loads must be diode suppressed" what does that mean and what diode should I try?
Thanks, that helps alot. the sensor company didn't have an answerIt means a reverse biased diode across the device, plenty of examples out there via Google. 1N4007 etc.
https://resources.altium.com/p/using-flyback-diodes-relays-prevents-electrical-noise-your-circuits
Max.
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Thanks, I don't think it is an inductive load. It goes into an engine controller switched input.A coil of wire, a solenoid or motor for example, is an inductive load.
When current flows in an inductive load a magnetic field is generated. This represents energy.
When the current through the inductor is removed (i.e. driver or switch is turned off) the magnetic field collapses and the stored energy has to be released somewhere. This results in a large reverse voltage (back emf) across the coil of wire. This voltage spike can cause havoc in electronics and may even destroy your electronics. A diode (snubber circuit) is placed across the inductive load or across the active driver in order to suppress the back emf.
If your application is not switching an inductive load then you can omit the snubber diode.
thanksGems sensors often are used to pick up a relay, if this is the case with yours, then you need it.
They usually are reed relay style switching devices.
Max.
Thanks, but not going to do itDangerous action that could likely add to an electrical shock, discussion of which is prohibited by the User Agreement has been deleted from this quote by a moderator.
Thanks, it not a float. Ours is an opto device with open collector output of 18 mA sink max installed in the radiator. I think the engine controller is not an inductive load. I do have a dual float in the fuel system and it is just two switchesThe Gem sensors I have used generally have used a PM magnet in the float and reed relay style switch, this will not require a BEMF diode, only in the case of the switch operating a relay, then the diode is needed.
Max.
OK, then if it inputs into a semiconductor circuit, Opto IC etc, then the diode is not needed.Thanks, it not a float. Ours is an opto device with open collector output of 18 mA sink max installed in the radiator. I think the engine controller is not an inductive load. I do have a dual float in the fuel system and it is just two switches
Thanks for all the help. I really appreciate it.OK, then if it inputs into a semiconductor circuit, Opto IC etc, then the diode is not needed.
Max.
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