I'm installing some 12VDC cooling fans in my stereo cabinet, which houses two receivers. I want these fans to turn on automatically whenever either receiver is powered on. My plan is to use two small relay switches that can plug directly into a wall outlet, eliminating the need for wiring cords to the spade terminals commonly found on many relays. However, I've been struggling to find the right search terms for this type of relay switch. What should I be looking for? Also, I appreciate suggestions for smart switches, but I'm not interested in remote or app control options. I want to stick with my existing 12VDC fans without switching to 120VDC fans, as those tend to be louder. Any help would be great!
3 Answers
I recommend checking out the master-slave power strips. They can be pretty handy for this setup. Just plug your 12V power supply into the slave outlet, and it'll turn on when the main device is powered up. It’s a straightforward solution without any complicated wiring!
I'd suggest looking for relay boards with transistor drivers. They allow you to handle separate power inputs easily and can be modified to your needs, but do note you'll need an enclosure to keep everything safe and tidy.
Honestly, if you're looking for simplicity, those plug-in smart switches seem to be the easiest way to go. They can handle some automation depending on what you need, but it sounds like you need something straightforward that activates with any device. A dedicated relay board might also work, but you'd have to do some extra wiring.
Yeah, I agree! The relay boards are a bit more involved. If you're not up for any complex setup, stick to the simpler options!
That's a solid option! I've used something similar at home, and it works great for managing multiple devices without a hassle.