optocoupler?

[burassu]

Hi I am trying to switch a pair of leds strips of 12v each from a micro controller. Do I have to use an opto coupler ? how should I connect it , pls ?


Tnks.

 

[jackorocko]

Not unless you need/want isolation.

 

[burassu]

Yes i need to switch the 12v strips from the 8051 which gives 5v as output.

 

[burassu]

I have tried to connect a relay directly to the output but it is draining a lot of current

 

[jackorocko]

why not a mosfet?

 

[burassu]

Can you please provide a circuit please ?

 

[jackorocko]

http://electronics-diy.com/electronic_schematic.php?id=1020

You are looking for a logic level mosfet. That will eliminate the need for a driver as long as you don't need fast switching.

edit: added the fast switching part

 

[burassu]

tnks a lot