RS-232 1-Channel Solid State Relay Controller
Solid State: A Practical Alternative to Mechanical Relays!
Mechanical Relays have a good home in low-cost control applications. But for some users, only solid state switching will do. Solid State Relays are ideal for users who require long term reliability, silent operation, or high induction tolerance. Many inductive control applications require a solid state relay. Inductive loads such as Motors, Valves, Pumps, Solenoids, and Large Transformers (including Fluorescent Lighting) benefit from the use of solid state relays because they reduce the chances of the inductive load interfering with the logic of the relay controller.
About Serial Communications
Our RS-232 Relay Boards are fully E3C complaint, allowing up to 256 NCD devices to share a single RS-232 serial port. Mix and match up to 256 devices in any combination. Speak to each device individually or all devices at once. To control the this Relay Controller, simply connect a data and ground wire between the Relay Controller and computer or microcontroller. Provide +12 Volts DC to the board, and send ASCII character codes to control the relays. Even a no-frills design deserves a high-quality driver stage, and that’s exactly what we put on our Serial Relay Controllers. Fast-reacting flyback diodes help shunt dangerous voltages away from the driver circuit.
Features include no-click startup, LED status lights, and E3C compliance. Relays can be controlled at 9600 baud and the board is compatible with ANY computer or microcontroller capable of delivering RS-232 data.
Associated Part Numbers
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Relay Options
Solid State Relays Option
Solid state relays are ideal for agricultural switching applications, or remotely located switching. SSRs are frequently chosen to control pumps, valves, solenoids, lights, and other high-reliability applications. NCD solid-state relay controllers do not include solid-state relays, but you will have the option to choose the type of solid state relays you require when customizing your product. This controller is designed specifically to fit select Crydom solid-state relays, but may be compatible other solid-state relays made by other companies. Review Solid-State Relay Options
Mechanical Drawing
Wiring Diagrams
Essential
Tutorials
- Unable to Mount Virtual COM Port in Windows 10
- Introduction to Computer Controlled Relays and Switching
- Relay Logic
Documentation Downloads
Download NCD Base Station
Introduction to Relay Control
This video will guide you in determining which relay controller you need for your application as well as a general overview of the differences between Relay Options. If you’re new to our products or just need a refresher for a new application this is a great place to start.
Induction Suppression
Learn about Induction and how it comes into play with Relay Controllers. Induction suppression can make your Relay Control applications intermittent and unreliable. This video will show you what causes it, how to avoid it, and how to account for it in your application.
RS-232 Serial Compatibility Notes
The NCD RS-232 Serial communications module is compatible with standard RS-232 signals (+/-10VDC), which are not directly compatible with UART signals from a microprocessor. If you are working with Arduino, Microchip PIC, or other common microcontroller, a communications module is not required. Microcontrollers will directly talk to the on-board processor of all NCD controllers.
Choosing a Solid State Relay
Please examine the datasheet of each solid state relay carefully, as SSRs do not function exactly like mechanical switches. SSRs frequently have minimum load requirements, and some require external snubber circuitry for certain applications. SSRs do not typically work with volt meters in the same way as mechanical switches. SSRs must also be chosen for AC or DC applications, as they are not universally interchangeable. Some SSRs require forced air cooling, and may be damaged if not properly ventilated. Please consult the experts at Crydom.com if you are uncertain about your choice of SSR.