Hi everyone, thanks in advance for any help. I've searched but couldn't find an answer that is cut and dry.
I'm looking for a DIY multiple relay solution or a single relay that can do the following:
I'm running an aftermarket RGB LED ambient light set up in my car that requires constant 12v 10a input. I want it triggered from the interior lights of the vehicle, so when they turn on, so do the LED lights (via constant 12v pin 30 to 87). The challenge is that the voltage for the interior lights ranges from 3v to 12v depending on the exterior brightness/daylight sensor (interior lights dim to 3v at night and jump to 12v brightness during the day or when car is unlocked at any time prior to starting ignition). The voltage change is not instantaneous. Depending on exterior brightness, the voltage can start at either end and vary to the other extreme over a couple seconds so the change is aesthetically pleasing. The LED require constant 12v and I control brightness for them via an app.
I need to find a relay that engages the coil and stays engaged for any pull-in voltage between 3v and @13v DC.
Is there a relay that does this?
If not, is there a workaround or chained relay setup that does the same thing?
I've seen low voltage relays (the blue colored ones), but they are quite small and don't seem to be able to handle 12v, and the regular 12v relay coils don't immediately engage at the lower voltage. I found a 12V relay that does engage at a lower voltage (out of luck), but it "buzzes" for a second to the engagement point (when the pull-in is on the low end), and eventually stops working over a few months (understandably since it's not designed for this).
If it's a workaround, the easier and more layman the answer, the better. I have only basic understanding of electronics in general. Appreciate it, and Happy New Year!
I'm looking for a DIY multiple relay solution or a single relay that can do the following:
I'm running an aftermarket RGB LED ambient light set up in my car that requires constant 12v 10a input. I want it triggered from the interior lights of the vehicle, so when they turn on, so do the LED lights (via constant 12v pin 30 to 87). The challenge is that the voltage for the interior lights ranges from 3v to 12v depending on the exterior brightness/daylight sensor (interior lights dim to 3v at night and jump to 12v brightness during the day or when car is unlocked at any time prior to starting ignition). The voltage change is not instantaneous. Depending on exterior brightness, the voltage can start at either end and vary to the other extreme over a couple seconds so the change is aesthetically pleasing. The LED require constant 12v and I control brightness for them via an app.
I need to find a relay that engages the coil and stays engaged for any pull-in voltage between 3v and @13v DC.
Is there a relay that does this?
If not, is there a workaround or chained relay setup that does the same thing?
I've seen low voltage relays (the blue colored ones), but they are quite small and don't seem to be able to handle 12v, and the regular 12v relay coils don't immediately engage at the lower voltage. I found a 12V relay that does engage at a lower voltage (out of luck), but it "buzzes" for a second to the engagement point (when the pull-in is on the low end), and eventually stops working over a few months (understandably since it's not designed for this).
If it's a workaround, the easier and more layman the answer, the better. I have only basic understanding of electronics in general. Appreciate it, and Happy New Year!