Do you need to wire a 5 pin relay? If so, you’re in luck! This comprehensive guide is loaded with useful tips and information about wiring relays. We’ll answer common questions and provide helpful tips to make the process as easy as possible.
So, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered! Let’s get started wiring that relay!
What is a Relay?
A relay is a device that uses electricity to turn on or off other devices. The 5 pin relay has five points where you can connect things. This can be used to control really big devices or make them work better. You can also use a 5 pin relay in cars, for example, to turn on the lights or make an alarm go off. [2]
Where Do We Use Relays?
This can be helpful in applications like turning on lights or motors, or in automotive applications where you might want the headlights to turn on or an alarm to go off.
What Parts Do I Need to Wire A 5 Pin Relay?
To wire a 5 pin relay, you’ll need the following parts:
- A 5 Pin Relay
- The correct wiring harness for the application
- Electrical Tape or Heat Shrink Tubing (optional)
- Wire Crimping Tools (optional)
Important Relay Terminology
Before attempting to wire a 5 pin relay, it is important to understand the following terminology and definitions:
- Relay Coil – This is the electrical current that flows through the coil of a relay. It’s used to control the switch inside of the relay.
- Relay Switch – The relay switch opens and closes based on the current flowing through the relay coil.
- Relay Socket – This is the base of the relay where all the connections are made.
- Contacts – Contacts refer to the points on a relay that can be connected in order to control a device.
Types of Automotive Relays
When wiring a 5 pin relay, it is important to understand the various types of automotive relays and their applications.
- Flasher Relay – This type of relay acts as an electronic switch and is commonly used in automotive turn signals or hazard lights.
- Starter Relay – A starter relay is used to control the starter motor in a vehicle. It is controlled by the vehicle’s ignition switch.
- Fuel Pump Relay – This type of relay is used to control the fuel pump in a vehicle, allowing it to run when needed and shut off when not in use.
4-Pin Relays vs. 5-Pin Relays
When wiring a 5 pin relay, it is important to understand the differences between 4-pin and 5-pin relays. A 4-pin relay will typically have two contacts in the same position as the 5-pin relay, but won’t have an additional contact point for controlling a device.
What are 5 Pin Relays Used for?
5 pin relays can be used for many different things, such as car turn signals or hazard lights, starters, fuel pumps, and other devices. They are versatile and easy to use, making them a good choice for controlling high-current outputs with low-current signals. [1]
Why Do You Need a Relay?
Relays are used to control high-power devices using low-power signals. This makes them ideal for controlling devices that require a lot of power, but don’t have the capacity to handle it on their own. They can also be used as safety features, since they keep the main power source separate from the device being controlled.
How to Wire a 5 Pin Relay?
When wiring a 5 pin relay, it is important to ensure that all of the connections are made correctly. This can be done by following these simple steps:
- Locate the coil terminals on the relay socket and connect one wire from your power source to each terminal.
- Connect the control wires to their corresponding pins on the relay socket.
- Secure the connections with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing (optional).
- Use a crimping tool to secure the wires (optional).
- Test your wiring to make sure everything is connected correctly and working properly.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your 5 pin relay should be ready to use. [1]
How to Wire a 5 Pin Relay with a Positive Trigger?
When wiring a 5 pin relay with a positive trigger, the same steps above should be followed except for the following changes.
- Connect the control wires to their corresponding pins on the relay socket, being sure to note the polarity of each connection.
- Connect one wire from your power source to the triggering terminal (marked with a “+”) on the relay socket.
- Secure the connections with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing (optional).
- Use a crimping tool to secure the wires (optional).
- Test your wiring to make sure everything is connected correctly and working properly.
How to Wire a 5 Pin Relay with a Negative Trigger?
When wiring a 5 pin relay with a negative trigger, the same steps above should be followed except for the following changes.
- Connect the control wires to their corresponding pins on the relay socket, being sure to note the polarity of each connection.
- Connect one wire from your power source to the triggering terminal (marked with a “-“) on the relay socket.
- Secure the connections with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing (optional).
- Use a crimping tool to secure the wires (optional).
- Test your wiring to make sure everything is connected correctly and working properly. [1]
Are all 5 Pin Relays the Same?
No, all 5 pin relays are not the same. Different types of relays have different pin arrangements and connections, so it is important to be sure that you have the correct type of relay for your project.
How to Test a 5-pin Relay Using a Digital Multimeter?
Testing the Relay’s Coil:
- Set your digital multimeter to measure resistance (ohms).
- Disconnect the power source from the relay socket.
- Connect one probe of the metre to each of the coil terminals on the relay socket and take a reading. The resistance should be within an acceptable range for that particular type of relay, usually around 10 ohms.
- If the resistance reading is outside of the acceptable range, the relay should be replaced. [1]
Testing the Relay’s Terminal
- Set your digital multimeter to measure continuity (Ω).
- Disconnect the power source from the relay socket.
- Connect one probe of the metre to each of the terminals on the relay socket and take a reading for each connection. The reading should be 0 ohms, indicating that there is a good connection.
- If the reading is higher than 0 ohms, the terminal may need to be replaced or repaired.
Now that you have completed these tests, your 5 pin relay should be working correctly. If you follow these simple steps, your project will be successful.
It is important to understand the basics of relays before starting any project, so make sure you are familiar with them.
Testing Normally Open Terminal
Set your digital multimeter to measure voltage (V).
Connect one probe of the metre to the normally open terminal and the other probe to a known power source.
Activate the relay by applying power to its coil terminals and take a reading. The voltage should match that of your power source, indicating that the relay is working properly.
If it does not, the relay should be replaced. [1]
Testing the Normally Closed Terminals
- Set your digital multimeter to measure voltage (V).
- Connect one probe of the metre to the normally closed terminal and a known power source.
- Activate the relay by applying power to its coil terminals and take a reading. The voltage should be 0, indicating that the connection is correctly broken once the relay is activated.
- If it is not, the relay should be replaced.
Testing the Common Terminals
- Set your digital multimeter to measure voltage (V).
- Connect one probe of the metre to the common terminal and a known power source.
- Activate the relay by applying power to its coil terminals and take a reading. The voltage should match that of your power source, indicating that the relay is working properly.
- If it does not, the relay should be replaced.
By following these steps, you should be able to properly test your 5 pin relay and make sure it is functioning correctly.
Now that you understand the basics of how to wire a 5 pin relay and how to test one, you are ready to tackle any project involving relays.
FAQ
How is a 5 pin relay wired?
To wire a 5 pin relay, connect the control wires to their corresponding pins on the relay socket. Be sure to note the polarity of each connection. Next, connect one wire from your power source to the triggering terminal (marked with a “-“) on the relay socket.
Finally, secure all connections with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing and use a crimping tool to reinforce the wires.
What is a 5 pin relay?
The first two pins are for the control wires and the last three are for the power source. The terminal that makes it work is called the “triggering terminal” and it’s marked with a “-“. This is how you turn it on: by applying power to its coil terminals.
Why do I need to test my 5 pin relay?
Testing your 5 pin relay is important because it ensures that it is correct. A faulty or damaged relay can cause problems with any projects you are working on, so it is important to test it before continuing.
Testing a 5 pin relay also helps you understand how the pins work and what each of them does. This knowledge will be very helpful for any future projects that involve relays.
Which pin is ground on a 5 pin relay?
The ground pin on a 5 pin relay is typically marked with a “G” or “-”. It is important to note that the polarity of this connection should always match between the relay and its power source. Failing to do this can cause the relay to not work properly.
Can I use a 4 pin relay in place of a 5 pin relay?
You can usually use a 4 pin relay instead of a 5 pin relay. But it is important to make sure that the relay is the same voltage and current as the original, and that all connections match up correctly.
Additionally, some relays are designed for specific purposes, like starting a car or controlling fuel flow, so be sure to check the specs before making the switch.
What is pin 85 on a 5 pin relay?
Pin 85 is typically used as the power output for the device or circuit you are controlling. It is connected to one of the pins on the relay socket and is turned on when you apply power to the triggering terminal (marked with a “-“) on the relay socket.
What are typical values for resistance when testing a 5 pin relay?
When testing a 5 pin relay, all of the resistance readings should be 0 ohms. If one of the readings is not 0, then the terminal may need to be replaced or repaired.
Additionally, when testing normally open and closed terminals, the voltage reading should match your power source when the relay is activated. If it does not, then you will need to replace the relay.
What would you use a 5 pin relay for?
A 5 pin relay can be used to control an electric motor, such as a car starter or fuel pump. It can also be used to switch on and off lights, electric fans, air conditioning units, and other electrical devices. Additionally, the relays are often used in security systems to detect intruders and sound alarms.
Is 85 or 86 ground on a relay?
The ground connection on a relay is typically marked with a “G” or “-”. It is connected to pin 85 (power output) and can be identified by its black wire. The polarity of this connection should always match between the relay and its power source.
Additionally, pin 86 (control) is used to connect the relay to a power source and activate it.
What does 87a mean on a relay?
87a is the normally closed terminal on a relay. When power is applied to the triggering terminal (-), the circuit will be broken and this pin will no longer have any voltage or current flowing through it.
This can be tested using a multimeter by connecting one probe to the 87a pin and another to a known power source. If the voltmeter reads at 0 V, then the relay is working properly.
Useful Video: How to wire a 5 pin relay
Conclusion
That’s it! You now know how to wire a 5 pin relay. As you can see, it’s not too difficult and can be accomplished with a little patience and some basic tools. Be sure to double check your wiring before applying power, and always use caution when working with electricity.
Have fun using your new knowledge to control all sorts of devices and appliances!
References
- https://www.apogeeweb.net/electron/how-to-wire-and-test-a-5-pin-relay.html
- https://www.electronicshub.org/relay-wiring-diagram/