How to Use COMPONENTS 16 Relay board: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The TRU TC-9445344 16 Relay Board is a versatile electronic module designed to control up to 16 individual relays. Each relay can be independently triggered, enabling the control of multiple devices or circuits from a single control signal. This board is ideal for applications requiring high-voltage or high-current switching, such as home automation, industrial automation, and IoT projects.

• Home Automation: Control lights, fans, and other appliances remotely.
• Industrial Automation: Manage machinery, motors, and other high-power equipment.
• IoT Projects: Integrate with microcontrollers like Arduino or Raspberry Pi for smart control.
• Prototyping: Test and develop multi-channel switching systems.

• Manufacturer: TRU
• Part ID: TC-9445344
• Number of Relays: 16
• Relay Type: Electromechanical
• Operating Voltage: 5V DC (control signal)
• Relay Output Voltage: Up to 250V AC or 30V DC
• Relay Output Current: Up to 10A per channel
• Trigger Type: Active low
• Isolation: Optocoupler isolation for each relay
• Dimensions: 190mm x 90mm x 20mm
• Mounting: Screw holes for secure installation
• Connector Type: Screw terminals for load connections, pin headers for control signals

1. Power the Board: Connect a 5V DC power supply to the VCC and GND pins.
2. Connect the Control Signals: Use a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino) to send control signals to the IN1-IN16 pins. Each pin corresponds to a specific relay.
3. Connect the Load: Attach the devices or circuits you want to control to the relay output terminals (COM, NO, NC).
   • Use the NO (Normally Open) terminal if you want the circuit to be off by default.
   • Use the NC (Normally Closed) terminal if you want the circuit to be on by default.
4. Trigger the Relays: Send a LOW signal (0V) to the desired IN pin to activate the corresponding relay.

• Power Supply: Ensure the power supply can provide sufficient current for all 16 relays. Each relay may draw up to 70mA when activated.
• Isolation: The optocoupler isolation protects the control circuit from high-voltage spikes. Ensure proper grounding to maintain isolation.
• Load Ratings: Do not exceed the maximum voltage (250V AC or 30V DC) or current (10A) ratings for each relay.
• Heat Management: If multiple relays are activated simultaneously, ensure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.

Below is an example of how to control the first relay using an Arduino UNO:

// Example code to control the first relay on the TRU TC-9445344 16 Relay Board
// Ensure the relay board is powered with 5V and connected to the Arduino

#define RELAY1_PIN 2  // Connect IN1 of the relay board to Arduino pin 2

void setup() {
  pinMode(RELAY1_PIN, OUTPUT);  // Set the relay control pin as an output
  digitalWrite(RELAY1_PIN, HIGH);  // Keep the relay off initially (active low)
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(RELAY1_PIN, LOW);  // Turn the relay ON
  delay(1000);  // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(RELAY1_PIN, HIGH);  // Turn the relay OFF
  delay(1000);  // Wait for 1 second
}

1. Relays Not Activating

   • Cause: Insufficient power supply.
   • Solution: Ensure the power supply provides at least 5V and sufficient current for all active relays.

2. Control Signals Not Working

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or signal levels.
   • Solution: Verify the control signal connections and ensure the microcontroller outputs a LOW signal to activate the relays.

3. Load Not Switching

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring of the load to the relay terminals.
   • Solution: Double-check the connections to the COM, NO, and NC terminals.

4. Overheating

   • Cause: Too many relays activated simultaneously or high current loads.
   • Solution: Reduce the number of active relays or use external cooling methods.

• Can I use a 3.3V microcontroller with this board?
  • Yes, but you may need a level shifter to ensure proper triggering of the relays.
• What happens if I exceed the load ratings?
  • Exceeding the load ratings can damage the relays or cause unsafe operation. Always stay within the specified limits.
• Can I control AC and DC loads simultaneously?
  • Yes, as long as each relay's load does not exceed its voltage and current ratings.

This concludes the documentation for the TRU TC-9445344 16 Relay Board.