Skip to main content

Question from a reader: Getting enough current for my car horns

I recently got the following question:

"I wanted to ask your help. I have two horns on my car, they draw about 10A. I want them to honk with a little delay. How would I set up a circuit so that I can supply enough current for them? Thank you"


The question was asked in an article about using a 555 timer to create a delay. But a 555 timer can only provide about 0.1A…

So when you want to control something that needs more current, you have two main options:

Add a transistor, or add a relay.

A transistor is a good and simple solution. But when we're talking about currents as high as 10A, you need to take care.

You must choose a transistor that can handle as much as 10A. And you must make sure that all connections, connectors, and wires are thick enough for that amount of current.

An easier way:

A relay module. Choose one that is sized for the voltage and current you need, and the connectors and everything should be properly sized for you.

You just need to make sure you choose wires that are thick enough.


Keep On Soldering!
Oyvind @ build-electronic-circuits.com

PS: Wherever you are on your journey, if you want to improve your electronics skills - here are two ways I can help you learn electronics:

  1. Getting Started With Electronics is the first eBook I wrote to help people get started. It's a step-by-step guide with simple instructions to get started building electronics. Perfect for complete beginners.
  2. Join Ohmify: Ohmify is for people with little or no electronics understanding who want to be able to confidently create electronic gadgets and tools – and who are prepared to take action to make it happen.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

⏰ Last Chance: End of Year SALE – Everything must go!

The entire Elektor Store team would like to thank you for your loyalty and trust. We wish you a happy new year 2024! View online ...

Without this, you won't learn electronics

One thing I'd like to learn (or to become better at) is: The practice of silencing my thoughts for a short period. Also called meditation. What does that have to do with electronics? It reduces stress and makes me more focused on the task at hand. So I can build more circuits, faster . At least in theory. ​ The problem is that I don't practice it. So naturally, I don't get the benefit of it. I recently asked my former meditation teacher for advice. He asked me back: "What's holding you back?" "I don't have enough time," I started typing (this was on Facebook Messenger). Then I deleted it because I realized that I could do it in as little as 5 minutes per day. I tried again: "I don't know what to do." But I had to delete this too because I had all the notes from the class that showed me exactly what to do. Then I tried: "I guess I don't have the motivation?" But again, I realized t...

Espressif Guest-Edited Bonus Edition (Download 3). Plus, kick off '24 with Matter!

If you can't see this message properly, view it in your browser. December 29, 2023 | #571    Third Free Download: Espressif Guest-Edited Bonus Edition Let's dive into a new batch of free Espressif-related articles! Download the next portion of the guest-edited Bonus Edition for project ideas, engineering insights, and inspiration. The AIoT innovation continues!   more...     A Zero Current Switch for Inductive Loads Relays or contactors are often used to switch AC powered inductive loads such as motors, valves or electro magnets. When the device is switched off an arc can form across the relay contacts as they open. This leads to premature relay failure if measures are not taken to suppress the spark.   more...       ...