How To Control Relays With A PICO

Relays can be very complex devices and if not handled correctly, a lot of problems and danger can be found! Chris covers a lot of the basics about controlling relays with Micropython and the Raspberry PI PICO microcontroller. Stand alone relays and relay modules are covered.
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[@johnreese8278]

I had no idea of the complexity. This was excellent information and quite fascinating.

[@MakingStuffwithChrisDeHut]

Hi John,
Unfortunately, yes, controlling relays is complex and in my humble opinion it really shouldn't be. I think a lot of the complexity with modules is that they provide ZERO documentation to understand their circuitry making it very difficult.
I am glad you found the information fascinating and useful.
Cheers!
Chris

[@quaternion-pi]

Lots of practical, useful info - and explained clearly. Thanks!

[@MakingStuffwithChrisDeHut]

Hi Quaternion,
Glad you liked it and found it useful!
Cheers
Chris

[@oraflores]

Once again, a very well explained lesson. Thank you.

[@MakingStuffwithChrisDeHut]

Greetings Oraflores,
Thanks for the kind words.
Cheers!
Chris

[@alanswackhamer4645]

thank you. you mentioned a diagram of the relay wiring with an external power supply, where can i find it? thank you.

[@MakingStuffwithChrisDeHut]

HI alanswackhamer4645
In the description of the video there is a link to the files for the videos.
Cheers!
Chris

[@toolzshed]

Awesome 🤘🏽😊

[@MakingStuffwithChrisDeHut]

Thank you! Cheers!
Chris

[@WilliamBurlingame]

I built a "smart mains outlet" with a electomechanical relay. When I built it, I used an RPI Zero with an IR device to activate the relay. I use the system to turn on my computer screens and desk lights when it detects my presence. When the Pico became available, I replaced the Zero with a Pico. Until recently, It has worked very well. Now the relay is stuck ON. The relay is a HiLetgo 5V One Channel Relay Module Relay Switch with OPTO Isolation High Low Level Trigger that I bought at Amazon. I bought a couple of optical relays, but I haven't replace the failed relay. I can see the LED on the relay toggle as the unit is turned on and off.

[@MakingStuffwithChrisDeHut]

Hi William,
By chance have you checked the input signal voltage at at the module? It could be that the PICO's output pin may not be providing either enough voltage or current. I have had that happen on both PIs and PICOs. With the PICO, I have just switched to a different pin and all was good again.
Cheers!
Chris

[@WilliamBurlingame]

@@MakingStuffwithChrisDeHut The relay stays closed even if I remove power from the Pico. I assume the relay contacts are welded closed since the connection is normally open.

[@jasonkasper505]

You know how you can make your channel more popular?.. blow stuff up

[@MakingStuffwithChrisDeHut]

Good morning Jason,
I like your idea, Mythbusters did a great job doing that for many years. Perhaps you have some specific suggestions?
Cheers!
Chris

[@jasonkasper505]

Start with a guitar

[@MakingStuffwithChrisDeHut]

@@jasonkasper505 Hmmm, interesting. I know you are a musician who plays guitars. Why would you want to destroy such and instrument? In order to fit within this channel and topic, how might you suggest I do that with a Raspberry Pi PICO?
Cheers!
Chris (BTW, you better be enjoying your vacation!!!!)