momentary to latched output

Is it possible to make a 12 volt circuit that uses bosch style relays and a single normally open pushbutton switch to latch and unlatch the circuit?  I want the operation of this circuit to be as follows:  push the pushbutton to latch the circuit and push the same pushbutton again to unlatch the circuit.  The switch will control a ground and the output needs to be a ground.  I would prefer NOT to use any diodes, transitors, or capicitors if possible, but if that's the only option so be it.  I have tried the following diagram I got from this website and I think it works (for a 12 volt output), but when I push the button to unlatch the circuit, the small LED I used on the output wire  just flickers.  (I assume the circuit is unlatching and then relatching very very fast)  Thanks in advance!  Jason

Are you depressing the button manually and does it have to "reset" with a key cycle or anything?

5 relays seems like overkill to me for something that can be accomplished with a push button switch and a single relay to control the load.

Yes, I am pressing the button manually.

No, it doesn't have a "reset" that I am aware of?

If you use just a single relay and pushbutton, wouldn't you have to continuosly hold the button to maintain continuity in the circuit?

I guess what I am trying to accomplish is similar to another type of pushbutton switch that clicks when you push it.  Once for on, and a second push for off.  The only problem with that type switch is, I want the circuit opened as soon as I depress the button the second time, not when the pressure is released off the button.

Yes I was suggesting a push button switch like you mentioned.

Ditto, else a flip-flip circuit.

Yes - I know - that's electronics, but its easy with an inverter chip (hex inverter - enough for 2 switches!) else other gate chips, or transistors etc.
IMO that's much better than multiple relays, or a momentary to latching relay (for the mere price of $99), or circuitry with latching relays (unless zero "relay-ON" current is required).

Otherwise latching switches are a novel idea... (that's the ditto above).

Flip-flop is a pretty good idea too with a simple set/reset. I haven't looked at those for years and I am not sure if they have enough current to drive a relay directly or if you need to amplify the output via a transistor.

Ugh the amount of stuff you forget when you use it so seldom.

But the flip flop won't work by itself, you'll need a debounce circuit in front of it to provide stable, consistent results.

Then, you'll most likely need a transistorized output to control whatever you are trying to control.  In the end you'll have a nice little prototype board with quite a few components on it.

I believe they make latching relays that can set and reset with the same inputs - that may be your easiest route.

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Kevin Pierson

This is what I was thinking....


It's only 2 inverters - hence you could have 3 toggle switches per HEX inverter package, or 2 per quad NAND or NOR package (connect their inputs together to act as inverters). (A package being a 14-pin IC.)
I think it powers up in the OFF state.

An output buffer (transistor/FET) is probably required (but depending on what device is chosen and what load).


I'm sure transistors or FETs can be used instead of integrated inverters....

TR7 Module

Check out option #3 this should do what you were looking for originally. They are not too expensive either for a universal solution.

Wow.  I've looked over this site for a few years now for ideas, info., etc., as I'm a real neophyte when it comes to this kind of thing.  I'm working on a custom dash project and I'm integrating momentary push button fog light switches.  So, I need a wiring plan to have this switch turn on and off the lights (through a relay of course) with a momentary signal.  I just officially registered moments ago and lo and behold - the answer is here!

Is there any other way with simple relays to accomplish this?  Great site!