Cirkit Designer Logo
Cirkit Designer
Your all-in-one circuit design IDE
Home / 
Component Documentation

How to Use 4 Relay Module: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

Image of 4 Relay Module
Cirkit Designer LogoDesign with 4 Relay Module in Cirkit Designer

UMLIFE 4 Relay Module Documentation

1. Introduction

The UMLIFE 4 Relay Module is a versatile electronic component designed to control high-voltage devices using low-voltage signals. It features four independent relays, each capable of switching AC or DC loads. This module is widely used in home automation, industrial control systems, robotics, and IoT applications. Its ability to interface with microcontrollers like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other development boards makes it a popular choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Common Applications:

  • Home automation (e.g., controlling lights, fans, or appliances)
  • Industrial equipment control
  • Robotics (e.g., motor or actuator control)
  • IoT systems for remote device management
  • Security systems (e.g., activating alarms or locks)

2. Technical Specifications

The UMLIFE 4 Relay Module is designed for reliable and efficient operation. Below are its key technical details:

General Specifications:

Parameter Value
Operating Voltage 5V DC
Trigger Voltage 3.3V - 5V DC
Relay Type Electromechanical SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw)
Maximum Load (AC) 250V AC @ 10A
Maximum Load (DC) 30V DC @ 10A
Isolation Optocoupler isolation for each relay
Dimensions 75mm x 55mm x 20mm
Weight ~60g

Pin Configuration:

The module has a total of 10 pins for input and output connections. Below is the pin description:

Pin Name Type Description
VCC Power Input Connect to 5V DC power supply.
GND Ground Connect to the ground of the power supply.
IN1 Control Signal Trigger input for Relay 1 (Active LOW).
IN2 Control Signal Trigger input for Relay 2 (Active LOW).
IN3 Control Signal Trigger input for Relay 3 (Active LOW).
IN4 Control Signal Trigger input for Relay 4 (Active LOW).
COM1 Load Terminal Common terminal for Relay 1.
NO1 Load Terminal Normally Open terminal for Relay 1.
NC1 Load Terminal Normally Closed terminal for Relay 1.
(Repeat for Relays 2, 3, and 4)

3. Usage Instructions

Connecting the 4 Relay Module:

  1. Power Supply:

    • Connect the VCC pin to a 5V DC power source.
    • Connect the GND pin to the ground of the same power source.
  2. Control Signals:

    • Connect the IN1, IN2, IN3, and IN4 pins to the digital output pins of a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino).
    • The relays are active LOW, meaning they will activate when the control pin is set to LOW.
  3. Load Connections:

    • Each relay has three terminals: COM, NO, and NC.
      • COM (Common): Connect to the power source or load.
      • NO (Normally Open): The load is connected here if you want it to be OFF by default and ON when the relay is activated.
      • NC (Normally Closed): The load is connected here if you want it to be ON by default and OFF when the relay is activated.

Example Circuit:

  • Connect a 220V AC light bulb to COM1 and NO1 of Relay 1.
  • Use an Arduino to control the relay via the IN1 pin.

Arduino Code Example:

Below is an example code to control the 4 Relay Module using an Arduino UNO:

// Example: Controlling a 4 Relay Module with Arduino UNO
// Ensure the relay module is connected to 5V and GND on the Arduino.
// IN1, IN2, IN3, and IN4 are connected to digital pins 7, 6, 5, and 4 respectively.

#define RELAY1 7  // Pin connected to IN1
#define RELAY2 6  // Pin connected to IN2
#define RELAY3 5  // Pin connected to IN3
#define RELAY4 4  // Pin connected to IN4

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

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

void loop() {
  // Turn on Relay 1
  digitalWrite(RELAY1, LOW);  // Activate Relay 1
  delay(1000);                // Wait for 1 second

  // Turn off Relay 1 and turn on Relay 2
  digitalWrite(RELAY1, HIGH); // Deactivate Relay 1
  digitalWrite(RELAY2, LOW);  // Activate Relay 2
  delay(1000);                // Wait for 1 second

  // Turn off Relay 2 and turn on Relay 3
  digitalWrite(RELAY2, HIGH); // Deactivate Relay 2
  digitalWrite(RELAY3, LOW);  // Activate Relay 3
  delay(1000);                // Wait for 1 second

  // Turn off Relay 3 and turn on Relay 4
  digitalWrite(RELAY3, HIGH); // Deactivate Relay 3
  digitalWrite(RELAY4, LOW);  // Activate Relay 4
  delay(1000);                // Wait for 1 second

  // Turn off all relays
  digitalWrite(RELAY4, HIGH); // Deactivate Relay 4
  delay(1000);                // Wait for 1 second
}

4. Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues:

  1. Relays not activating:

    • Ensure the module is powered with 5V DC.
    • Verify that the control signals are correctly connected and set to LOW to activate the relays.
  2. Load not switching:

    • Check the wiring of the load to the COM, NO, and NC terminals.
    • Ensure the load does not exceed the relay's maximum current and voltage ratings.
  3. Module overheating:

    • Avoid exceeding the maximum load ratings of the relays.
    • Ensure proper ventilation around the module.

FAQs:

Q1: Can I use the module with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A1: Yes, the module is compatible with 3.3V control signals due to its optocoupler isolation.

Q2: Can I control DC motors with this module?
A2: Yes, you can control DC motors as long as their voltage and current ratings are within the relay's limits.

Q3: Is the module safe for high-voltage applications?
A3: Yes, but ensure proper insulation and safety precautions when working with high-voltage AC loads.


5. Safety Precautions

  • Always disconnect power before wiring the module.
  • Avoid touching the module when it is connected to high-voltage loads.
  • Use proper insulation and enclosures for high-voltage applications.
  • Ensure the load does not exceed the relay's maximum ratings to prevent damage.

This documentation provides a comprehensive guide to using the UMLIFE 4 Relay Module effectively. For further assistance, refer to the manufacturer's datasheet or contact technical support.

Explore Projects Built with 4 Relay Module

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
DC-DC Converter and Relay Module Power Distribution System
Image of relay: A project utilizing 4 Relay Module in a practical application
This circuit consists of a DC-DC converter powering a 6-channel power module, which in turn supplies 5V to a 2-relay module. The power module distributes the converted voltage to the relay module, enabling it to control external devices.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Arduino and ESP32-CAM Based Fingerprint-Triggered Solenoid Lock System
Image of sfdjni: A project utilizing 4 Relay Module in a practical application
This circuit is designed for a security or access control application, featuring an Arduino UNO interfaced with a fingerprint scanner for authentication and controlling a 4-channel relay module. The relays operate multiple solenoids powered by a 12V battery, and an ESP32-CAM module is included for potential image capture capabilities.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Battery-Powered 4-Channel Relay Control with LED Indicators
Image of RELLAY BOARD TEST: A project utilizing 4 Relay Module in a practical application
This circuit consists of a 5V battery powering a 4-channel relay module, which controls four LEDs (red, yellow, green, and blue) through individual resistors. Each relay channel is activated by a corresponding SPST toggle switch, allowing manual control of the LEDs.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Wi-Fi Controlled Relay System with ESP32 and LED Indicators
Image of GIZMO_CONTROL_ONLY: A project utilizing 4 Relay Module in a practical application
This circuit is a control system using an ESP32 microcontroller to manage a 4-channel relay module, which in turn controls various loads. The relays are activated by rocker switches and provide visual feedback through LEDs, while power is supplied and regulated by an HLK-PM12 module and protected by a fuse and circuit breaker.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Explore Projects Built with 4 Relay Module

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Image of relay: A project utilizing 4 Relay Module in a practical application
DC-DC Converter and Relay Module Power Distribution System
This circuit consists of a DC-DC converter powering a 6-channel power module, which in turn supplies 5V to a 2-relay module. The power module distributes the converted voltage to the relay module, enabling it to control external devices.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of sfdjni: A project utilizing 4 Relay Module in a practical application
Arduino and ESP32-CAM Based Fingerprint-Triggered Solenoid Lock System
This circuit is designed for a security or access control application, featuring an Arduino UNO interfaced with a fingerprint scanner for authentication and controlling a 4-channel relay module. The relays operate multiple solenoids powered by a 12V battery, and an ESP32-CAM module is included for potential image capture capabilities.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of RELLAY BOARD TEST: A project utilizing 4 Relay Module in a practical application
Battery-Powered 4-Channel Relay Control with LED Indicators
This circuit consists of a 5V battery powering a 4-channel relay module, which controls four LEDs (red, yellow, green, and blue) through individual resistors. Each relay channel is activated by a corresponding SPST toggle switch, allowing manual control of the LEDs.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of GIZMO_CONTROL_ONLY: A project utilizing 4 Relay Module in a practical application
Wi-Fi Controlled Relay System with ESP32 and LED Indicators
This circuit is a control system using an ESP32 microcontroller to manage a 4-channel relay module, which in turn controls various loads. The relays are activated by rocker switches and provide visual feedback through LEDs, while power is supplied and regulated by an HLK-PM12 module and protected by a fuse and circuit breaker.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer