Opto 22's Snap-OMR6-A and Snap-OMR6-C mechanical relay modules fill a need for engineers, plant managers, technicians, and others seeking a way to switch higher voltages and currents without the need for breakout boards, header cables, or other interposing hardware.

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Opto 22's Snap-OMR6-A and Snap-OMR6-C mechanical relay modules fill a need for engineers, plant managers, technicians, and others seeking a way to switch higher voltages and currents without the need for breakout boards, header cables, or other interposing hardware.

The power relay output modules offer four separate channels of switching for up to 250 V ac or 30 V dc, 6 amp loads. Significantly, the new modules are designed and built in the same form factor as Opto 22's standard Snap I/O modules. As a result, the modules offer three times the rated current switching capability of standard Snap optically isolated outputs, and 12 times the rated current switching capability of SNAP reed relay modules-all in the same amount of rack space.

The features and capabilities of the two mechanical relay modules address three customer needs. First, their ability to independently switch up to 6 amps per channel eliminates the need for additional hardware to switch the load. Second, they are ideal for applications with inrush currents and inductive, capacitive, or resistive loads. (In contrast, Opto 22's current mechanical reed relay modules-which offer a maximum of 0.5 amps switching current and 120 volt ratings are better suited for low-current applications like signal switching.) Finally, because the new modules are mechanical (not solid-state) relays, each is capable of switching either ac or dc power. This feature not only potentially reduces the number of modules needed for any given application, but also offers advantages for laboratory and testing applications where the polarity of the electrical circuit is subject to change.

Although the new relay modules feature channel-to-channel isolation, the two modules also have distinct differences. The Snap-OMR6-A is a Form A, Single Pole Single Throw (SPST) relay with contacts that are normally open. The Snap-OMR6-C is a Form C, Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT) relay with mechanical contacts that can be wired as normally opened, normally closed, or both. Having these dual options allows users to effectively safeguard their control applications. For example, in the event that power is lost, the contacts on the Snap-OMR6-C module will return to the position that's been designated as normal (open or closed), thus allowing an opportunity for connected equipment to operate (or shut down) safely.

The higher load capabilities of the modules make them ideal for switching solenoids, compressors, motors, and contactors on heavy equipment used in the HVAC, refrigeration, oil and gas, and water and wastewater industries. The modules will also prove useful for energy managers, building owners, and others looking to switch equipment on and off as part of their demand-response and other energy management operations.

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Opto 22

- Edited by Chris Vavra, Control Engineering, www.controleng.com