They come in different shapes, styles, and each type of relay has its own associated technology. Even a standard electronic relay has different subtypes. However, since each relay is made for unique situations, only a specific type of relay may be suitable for the job. In some cases, the use of various types of relays may be considered appropriate. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each relay, it will be easier for you to choose the one that best suits this task.
These are the main types of relays available on the market:
Electromechanical relays
The most common option for users looking for an “online shopping relay” on the Internet is, of course, an electromechanical relay. This relay is most widely used in ATE applications today. Consisting of coils, accessories and various other electrical connections, the working mechanism of this electrical relay is quite simple. When the coil receives voltage, the induced magnetic field transmits an armature that unlocks or closes the contacts.
Reed Relay
Like a standard electromechanical relay, consumers looking for an “online purchase relay” are more likely to purchase electrical relays. Like their electromechanical counterpart, reed switches also have solid contacts that are mechanically activated to expose or close the way. Unlike electromechanical relays, reed relays offer contacts that are significantly reduced and have less weight.
Solid State Relays (SSR)
Solid state relays are built using an image sensitive MOSFET device with an LED to activate the device. They are a faster replacement for electromechanical relays, since their switching time depends on the time required to turn the LED on and off.
FET switches
They can be compared to SSRs, because they are not exactly mechanical devices either. Their similarity allows them to share the pros and cons, like FET switches, they have a longer switching life, but at the same time they have a much higher path resistance compared to a standard electromechanical or reed switch.