Is this Possible??

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1

I have a small CNC router that uses mach3 and the program turns on and off two switched ac outlets to control the vacuum and the router during cutting.

I have a small cutting laser which I want to attach to the gantry and use to cut, but it runs off 12 volts. I want to have its power controlled the same way as the router by the machine.

I hooked up an ac to dc converter and it powers the laser fine but the problem is that there is a lag coming on and the power tapers off when shut down. I need instant on and off of the 12 volts.

Is there such thing as a relay that I can have 12v in and out but have a 120v ac trigger? Or is there something better I could use.? The laser draws about 2.5 amps at 12 volts.

Thanks for the help.

2

You’ve defined your needs well enough to go shopping; relays like that are available from Mouser, Digikey, and even MPJA.

To echo your request with terms that will help you shop:

  • - SPST Relay

  • - 120VAC coil
  • - 12VDC contacts rated for 5A (I added some capacity and it'll still be easy to find)
    • That's the narrow definition, but a SPDT or DPDT relay would work and the voltage for contacts can be higher as long as it's DC. (Contacts for DC have to break an arc and be resistant to carbon buildup where AC current breaks any arc every 120th of a second.)