Can an alarm LED drive a relay?

Printed From: the12volt.com
Forum Name: Car Security and Convenience
Forum Discription: Car Alarms, Keyless Entries, Remote Starters, Immobilizer Bypasses, Sensors, Door Locks, Window Modules, Heated Mirrors, Heated Seats, etc.
URL: https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=24744
Printed Date: May 15, 2024 at 9:07 AM

Topic: Can an alarm LED drive a relay?

Posted By: Derekc
Subject: Can an alarm LED drive a relay?
Date Posted: January 17, 2004 at 3:12 AM

Can an alarm LED drive a relay to a neon light?

Would it have enough current to drive? Or flash too fast to drive?

My red LED is just too weak. I want to hookup a neon light under the dash.

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DC

Replies:

Posted By: daniel2002p
Date Posted: January 17, 2004 at 9:22 AM

On most alarm it cannot because they are only 2 or 3 volt systems, but you can measure the coltage coming out of the alalrm, and if it 12v, then you can hook up a relay.

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2005 Toyota Corolla S
1.8L VVT-i I-4
Always double check your wires with a DMM!!!
Do Not Use A Test Light!!!
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Posted By: clearman
Date Posted: January 17, 2004 at 10:33 AM

I know radio shack has some 5 volt relays with a pull in voltage of about 4 volts. Many cmputer supply places have very low voltage relays. Depending on the voltage, you might be able to use one of these but use it to trip the 12 volt relay rather than turn on the light. The 12 volt relay will then turn on the light. The small relay will handle enough amperage to trip the bigger relay.

Posted By: Derekc
Date Posted: January 17, 2004 at 10:41 AM

Totally forgot about the low voltage use of the LED.
So glad to have you guys. I was planning to mess with it. Now I know I shouldn't.
Thanks

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DC

Posted By: xetmes
Date Posted: January 17, 2004 at 12:15 PM

you can use a transistor... search these boards its been asked a few times...

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