Connecting External Relays to GC relay products

Relays can be extremely useful for integrating all manner of devices. They can be used to drive motors, power devices on and off, or trigger inputs on other devices. However not every relay is suitable for every application. Understanding when and how to connect external relays allows an integrator to choose a relay that suits their intended application.

Note: External relays can be used with high voltage wiring and devices which can be dangerous. Always check and follow local laws, use certified professionals, and never connect wiring while live.

When to use external relays:

• When the voltage or amperage requirements of the application exceed the GC device's internal relay capabilities.*
• When a Normally Closed relay is needed.
• When a different type of relay (SPDT, DPDT, latching, etc.) is needed.**

* The GC-100, iTach, and Flex relay products have relays rated to 24v and 0.5A. The Global Connect RT module relays are rated to 250vAC, 30vDC and 3A.

**The Flex Link Relay and Sensor Cable can emulate certain logical relay types such as SPST, SPDT, and DPDT. Refer to the Flex Link Relay and Sensor Tech Guide on the downloads page for more information.

What you will need:

1. A Global Cache device with relay outputs (such as the GC-100-12/18/18R, iTach IP2CC/WF2CC, or Flex with the Flex Link Relay and Sensor cable).
2. A 12v power supply to provide the actuation voltage (if using external relays other than the ones in this guide a different voltage may be required).
3. Wire and wire strippers.
4. Phillips and flat-head screw drivers.

How to connect an external relay:

The following images show how to connect an external relay to several GC products. For GC-100 users please see the iTach IP2CC/WF2CC images as the same wiring applies.

The below photos show the connection of 2 DPDT relays. Wiring and activation voltage for other models of external relays may differ. The relay used in the example is available from a 3rd party here.

Note: The examples below show wiring for activation of the external relay only. No load is connected to the relays. Please refer to the external relay vendor's documentation for connecting a load to the relay.

iTach Flex

iTach IP2CC/WF2CC/GC-100