Necessity is the mother of invention and this EasyDaq product came from a need to power up six 200W power supplies on a machine without over loading the mains supply on start-up. Switching on the power supplies one at a time overcame the problem.
On power up, the 8 opto-isolated relays are sequentially enabled by a dedicated processor at 1 second intervals. The relays remain energised until the power is removed. The individual digital signals are available, along with power on a 15 way, D-type connector.
Changeover Relay (SPDT) outputs are accessed via two-part connectors in this case. This version uses 6V rated relays for low power consumption at 5V operation.
Sequential start up could be useful for applications requiring timing and sequence. SEQ8 settings can be customised. The SEQ8 range of cards, with 5V or 6V, and single or two part connection options is the latest to join Easydaq’s range of relay card and data collection cards. All Easydaq products are designed and built in the UK.
What are the relay card uses, variations and configurations?
Relay cards are incredibly useful in providing control over systems. Typical applications include security and access, control of laboratory and medical equipment, pump and irrigation control, test equipment operation, military applications, and monitoring equipment control. Not limited to industrial use, relay cards are an integral part of scientific, academic, and research projects as well as home automation and hobbyist applications.
Easydaq cards vary from 4-96 relays and they are code-compatible. There are signal or power relays. Power versions are available with 5V,6V or 12V operating relays. The boards can be digital, serial, USB & Ethernet controlled.
The USB4SRMx is USB controlled and powered, with 4 opto-isolated relays and four general purpose digital I/O channels.
The relays are high sensitivity (gold contact) signal relays (30V DC at 1A). Access to all relay contacts and the 4 DIO channels is via fixed screw terminal block connectors along the edge of the card.
It is suitable for a wide range of control and signal switching purposes. There is screw terminal access to the USB power for possible onward powering/use in the target system. There are +5V & relay channel LED status indicators.
Nylon feet are fitted in each corner, which will take self-tapping screws. They can be removed to allow the cards to be mounted on pillars or stacked. A Perspex cover can add general protection of the card and prevent accidental contact with relay contacts or screw terminal connections. DIN rail mounts will fit.
Plug it in and it will be recognised as a serial port. Once setup, users can access or control from any web/browser enabled device or phone. Program using C++, LabVIEW, Java, Perl, Python, Ruby, PHP or Ajax options.