How to Use 6 Channel Relay: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The 6 Channel Relay (Manufacturer: Supes, Part ID: Relay) is an electromechanical switch designed to control up to six independent circuits using a single control signal. This versatile component is widely used in automation, home appliances, industrial control systems, and IoT projects. It allows low-power control signals, such as those from a microcontroller, to switch high-power devices like motors, lights, or other electrical loads.

• Home automation systems (e.g., controlling lights, fans, or appliances)
• Industrial equipment control
• Robotics and IoT projects
• Smart home devices
• Motor and pump control

The following table outlines the key technical details of the 6 Channel Relay:

The 6 Channel Relay module has the following pin configuration:

Each relay has three output terminals:

1. Power the Module: Connect the VCC pin to a 5V DC power source and the GND pin to ground.
2. Connect Control Signals: Use a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino UNO) to send control signals to the IN1–IN6 pins. A LOW signal activates the corresponding relay.
3. Connect the Load: Attach the load (e.g., light, motor) to the relay's output terminals (COM, NO, NC) based on your switching requirements:
   • Use COM and NO for devices that should be OFF by default and turn ON when the relay is activated.
   • Use COM and NC for devices that should be ON by default and turn OFF when the relay is activated.
4. Test the Circuit: Verify the connections and test the relay by toggling the control signals.

• Ensure the load voltage and current do not exceed the relay's maximum ratings (250V AC / 30V DC, 10A).
• Use proper insulation and safety precautions when working with high-voltage loads.
• Avoid switching inductive loads (e.g., motors) without a flyback diode to prevent voltage spikes.
• Use optocoupler isolation to protect the microcontroller from high-voltage transients.

Below is an example of how to control the 6 Channel Relay using an Arduino UNO:

• Connect the relay module's VCC to the Arduino's 5V pin.
• Connect the relay module's GND to the Arduino's GND pin.
• Connect the relay module's IN1–IN6 pins to Arduino digital pins (e.g., D2–D7).

// Example code to control a 6 Channel Relay with Arduino UNO
// IN1–IN6 are connected to Arduino pins D2–D7 respectively

// Define relay control pins
#define RELAY1 2
#define RELAY2 3
#define RELAY3 4
#define RELAY4 5
#define RELAY5 6
#define RELAY6 7

void setup() {
  // Set relay pins as OUTPUT
  pinMode(RELAY1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(RELAY2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(RELAY3, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(RELAY4, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(RELAY5, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(RELAY6, OUTPUT);

  // Initialize all relays to OFF (HIGH state)
  digitalWrite(RELAY1, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(RELAY2, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(RELAY3, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(RELAY4, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(RELAY5, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(RELAY6, HIGH);
}

void loop() {
  // Example: Turn relays ON and OFF sequentially
  digitalWrite(RELAY1, LOW); // Turn ON Relay 1
  delay(1000);               // Wait 1 second
  digitalWrite(RELAY1, HIGH); // Turn OFF Relay 1

  digitalWrite(RELAY2, LOW); // Turn ON Relay 2
  delay(1000);               // Wait 1 second
  digitalWrite(RELAY2, HIGH); // Turn OFF Relay 2

  // Repeat for other relays...
}

1. Relays Not Activating

   • Cause: Insufficient power supply.
   • Solution: Ensure the module is powered with a stable 5V DC source.

2. Microcontroller Resetting

   • Cause: Voltage spikes from inductive loads.
   • Solution: Add flyback diodes across the load terminals to suppress voltage spikes.

3. Relay Stuck in ON/OFF State

   • Cause: Faulty relay or incorrect wiring.
   • Solution: Check the wiring and replace the relay if necessary.

4. Load Not Switching Properly

   • Cause: Exceeding the relay's voltage/current ratings.
   • Solution: Verify that the load's voltage and current are within the relay's specifications.

Q1: Can I use the 6 Channel Relay with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A1: Yes, the relay module supports trigger voltages as low as 3.3V. However, ensure the module's VCC is powered with 5V.

Q2: Can I control AC and DC loads simultaneously?
A2: Yes, as long as the loads are connected to separate relays and do not exceed the module's ratings.

Q3: Is optocoupler isolation necessary?
A3: While the module includes optocoupler isolation, additional isolation may be required for high-voltage or sensitive applications.

Q4: Can I use fewer than six relays?
A4: Yes, you can use any number of relays by leaving unused control pins unconnected.