Rating of the best programmable relays for 2020

The article will focus on intelligent control of heating systems, greenhouses, lighting, ventilation and pumps. Their normal functioning depends on many factors, including directly from the state of the system used. For the normal operation of the system, it is necessary to introduce automated devices of this type, which significantly increase not only the safety indicator, but also make the use of equipment more economical. Such aspects are important both in everyday life and in the industrial sector.

A programmable relay will help to solve problems related to automation and many others. The modern market is capable of offering many solutions. A striking example is the manufacturer Schneider Electric, whose products are of German quality, which can solve most of the issues related to automation.

Principle of operation

An electromagnetic or programmable relay consists of contacts, an armature and a coil. A set of contacts is required, and their types can be used differently:

• several groups that are considered to be independent chains;
• two pairs of contacts (NO and NC);
• one pair of contacts is used.

The coil is designed for different indicators of current, alternating and direct, which allows you to choose a popular model for any circuit. In this case, no additional source is needed to control the coil. Both variable and constant indicators can be switched. Characteristics such as voltage and current are indicated on the product case. The power rating depends on several factors. According to buyers, the emphasis is on functionality, design features, power of the products used. The arc chute is installed in powerful units, which makes it possible to control inductive and resistive loads. This applies to electric motors.

It should be noted that its work is based on the functioning of a magnetic field. At the moment when the current charge hits the coil, the lines of force begin to penetrate the core. For the manufacture of the anchor, materials are used that are magnetic. This allows it to be attracted to the coil core. Also, wires (flexible) and a plate made of copper can be placed on the anchor. While energized, the armature will cope with its functions, thereby transferring voltage through copper buses to the contact, which will remain stationary. The armature attracted by the magnetic field will open or close the contacts.In the absence of voltage, the armature will return to its original position.

The most common mistakes the buyer makes when choosing a relay is due to the fact that there are other designs on the market. In some cases, the moving contact comes into motion due to the armature, which leads to a switch from normal to active mode.

Design advantages and disadvantages

Advantages	disadvantages
The contact resistance indicator is quite low.	When triggered, a characteristic click is heard.
Full galvanic isolation is achieved by disconnecting the power circuit from the control circuit.	Cyclic rattling is observed when disconnected. For normal holding of the armature, the current is not enough, so it begins to open and close at a tremendous speed, which is accompanied by a buzzing sound. Thus, the service life of the product is significantly reduced, and the warranty does not cover this type of damage.
The possibility of carrying out repair work in the future. The audit is carried out every few months. Includes contact stripping and coil replacement (if necessary). Also, if you have the appropriate skills, you can solder the contacts in the coil, which from time to time can come off the contacts (outgoing).	The electromagnetic device only needs a few seconds to react (trigger). Semiconductor switches are switched hundreds of thousands of times within a second. Switching equipment must be selected correctly, according to the existing selection criteria.
The simplicity of the design used. It should be noted that the more parts are used in the unit, the lower the indicator of its reliability will be.	A limited number of activations, as with any semi-mechanical device. It is worth noting that this figure is measured millions of times, so the drawback is very doubtful.

The lower the resistance coefficient of the contacts used, the lower the voltage loss. This will make the heating of the electronic mechanism less significant.

You can solve the rattle problem by adjusting the system so that the analog signal passes through the threshold device. This will require a Schmidt trigger, microcontroller or comparator.

Which one is better to buy

The best models of programmable mechanisms are presented on the market by the world's best manufacturing firms. In order to choose a high-quality device, you need to familiarize yourself with the list of what they are, and determine its main tasks. Advice from experts should not be neglected, since there are many nuances in choosing such equipment. It is recommended to pay attention to the following aspects:

1. Remote control capability. Additional modules are required for expansion and interfacing.
2. Ladder diagram is used to compose rows, which allows logical control for each state.
3. The relay allows control of current and operating voltage.
4. Number of digital outputs and control groups.
5. The number of analog and digital inputs used for control.
6. The number of protocols, including those related to security.

You should not ignore such indicators as temperature conditions, ease of installation, type of supply voltage, as well as the availability of manufacturer's support and the duration of the warranty card.

On the Russian market you can find products:

• Canadian production;
• made in Italy;
• Indonesian production;
• Spanish production;
• Danish production;
• German production;
• Belgian production;
• Russian production.

Rating of high-quality domestic devices

Novatek - Electro OM-163

Users are attracted not so much by the simplicity of the device as by the warranty that extends to it. It is used to regulate the power of the AC voltage indicator. Screw connection with IP10 degree of protection.Therefore, installation should not be carried out in dusty and humid rooms that are classified as unheated. Dust getting inside the case will lead to overheating of individual elements of the system. It is capable of operating with a design voltage of 450 V, while the nominal coefficient will be 63 A. Switching on occurs instantly - in a split second. The switching ability also has high rates (on / off).

The price of new items is 2200 rubles.

• compactness;
• precise voltage regulation;
• practicality;
• operational period;
• cost;
• durable body.

• low level of protection.

Zen V-2 series Omron

Compact programmable mechanism made in China, which is installed on a DIN rail. Suitable for systems with increased functionality. The upcoming installation work is prescribed by the manufacturer in the corresponding instructions. Based on the description, the design combines the functions of a timer, counter and relay. An LCD display is installed for programming convenience. If the equipment is used in dimly lit rooms, the display backlight is useful.

Cost - 3500 rubles.

• compactness;
• accuracy;
• simplicity of the device;
• installation of expansion modules.

• the model can only be ordered online, directly from the manufacturer's online store.

EKF Proxima PRO-Relay 10 I / O

A practical budget device that can greatly simplify the much-needed management of electrical equipment. This will automate most of the local processes within the system. It has found its application in large production lines, but it can also be used in a domestic environment. The display is wide enough and backlit. This allows adjustment when there is not enough lighting in the room. The current state has become easier to track. Standard relay language is used for programming. Can communicate with 260 units at the same time.

Installation in premises of any type is permissible, thanks to the high-quality housing, which is lightweight. However, for the normal functioning of the mechanism, a high-quality switchboard is required. A convenient USB cable is used to carry out and configure current operations. There is no need to look for legacy interfaces.

How much does a set cost? About 4300 rubles.

• wide functionality;
• understandable programming language;
• convenient display;
• additional password protection;
• high-quality fasteners;
• acceptable cost.

• not detected.

ARIES PR 110-24.8D.4R

It is used both in country houses and in factory conditions. It can be used to equip a small automated system. Installation in protection systems is also allowed. Make-up is carried out in the presence of 24 V, however, it is also possible to connect to a 220 V. It was possible to simplify the subsequent use by installing a timer, which is included in the kit. If necessary, you can set the time on the display. With the help of the device, it becomes possible to create several algorithms that will help eliminate the need for routine and regular intervention. DIN rail mountable, so it doesn't take up much space.

Price - 5150 rubles.

• setting on real time clock;
• ease of use;
• compactness;
• various fields of application;
• operational period.

• not identified.

PR-114

Russian-made programmable mechanism that has support for analog signals used for local systems. The model provides several logical functions such as comparative and arithmetic. The kit is well formed, so the user can find a set of auxiliary triggers and counters that will be required during the installation process.There are also blocks of time delays, signal conditioners and work with bits, which you can create yourself using macros.

Is used for:

1. Heating.
2. Ventilation.
3. Technological equipment.
4. Systems equipped with dispensers.
5. Relay protection.
6. Access control.
7. Pumping stations.

The average price per set is 7000 rubles.

• working temperature range (-20 ° С - + 55 ° С);
• compact dimensions;
• installation on a DIN rail;
• "Modbus-slave" protocol allowing to work with RS485 network;
• debugging and project creation is carried out without the unit;
• the presence of "owen-logic";
• a clock showing real time;
• subspecies.

• not identified.

BAZIS-12

Reliable and inexpensive programmable device from one of the best domestic manufacturers. It is used to solve exclusively industrial-type tasks. The popular model is capable of processing information from ten connected sensors. In the event of an emergency or unforeseen situation, an alert system will work. The safety of the installation is spelled out in a document referred to as "general rules for explosion protection". Thus, it can be used in any systems that belong to the category of automatic protection.

Based on numerous reviews, the device is endowed with the following functionality:

1. The ability to control electrical systems.
2. Qualitative analysis of input signals.
3. Self-diagnosis.
4. Transmission and reception of signals transmitted by sensors.

However, this is not a complete list of possible functions. The list includes only the main features. This type of equipment can be used in many enterprises due to the high level of safety and the ability to perform various processes. Where can you buy a unit? Only from the manufacturer, due to which the cost will be negotiable (individual).

• notification system;
• designed for large enterprises;
• self-diagnosis function;
• wide functionality;
• the element base is well thought out.

• the cost depends on the functionality of the ordered unit.

Rating of the best foreign programmable relays

Line from EASY

Easy-800

This series belongs to the category of advanced, whose functionality allows you to make everyday decisions more flexible. It makes it possible to solve almost any problem concerning both industrial and household automation. A feature of the power structure is that, if necessary, it can be supplemented with auxiliary modules that adapt to the communications used and contribute to the expansion of functions. Other series are equipped with a more standard feature list. Among the kit you can find:

1. Blocks for scaling values.
2. PID controllers.
3. Real time clock.
4. Analog comparators.
5. Impulse relays.
6. Arithmetic blocks.
7. Memory (volatile).
8. Timers.
9. Counters.

In such a network, up to eight units can be connected simultaneously, which makes the series, consisting of programmable relays, one of the most powerful on the European market. Allows you to solve complex problems.

• installation of expansion units is allowed;
• an interface that allows the simultaneous connection of up to eight devices;
• the series is equipped with a coil, four contacts and 256 program lines;
• eight transistor outputs for 24V DC / 0.5 A or 8 A (six relay outputs);
• four analog inputs powered by 12V, 24V DC and 24V AC from 0-10 V;
• digital inputs in the amount of 12 pieces.

Easy-700

A series consisting of less efficient devices that have a number of advantages over the "500". However, despite this, it is possible to connect auxiliary blocks to the models for subsequent expansion. These are digital and analog outputs and inputs as well as communication modules. Perfect for solving everyday tasks related to the automation and control of a large number of lines and signals, respectively.It is also accepted to be used in projects in which further expansion of the system is allowed taking into account the minimum initial costs.

• expansion units;
• equipped with a coil, three contacts and 128 program lines;
• eight transistor outputs for 12V and 24V DC / 0.5 A or 8 A (six relay outputs);
• four analog inputs powered by 12V, 24V DC and 24V AC from 0-10 V;
• digital inputs in the amount of 12 pieces.

Easy-500

Basic series consisting of programmable type mechanisms. Used to solve everyday and simple tasks related to automation. It can be used for lighting small-sized rooms, presence control, heating systems, engine start control and pump (compressor) control.

• equipped with a coil, three contact groups and 128 lines of programs;
• four transistor outputs for 24V DC / 0.5 A or 8 A (four relay outputs);
• two analog inputs powered by 12V, 24V DC and 24V AC from 0-10 V;
• eight digital inputs.

• helper modules cannot be used.

ABB Cl-lsr. C12 AC2 100-240VAC 8I / 40

A quality product from an Italian manufacturer. The model has an excellent element base and rich functionality. Installation can be carried out directly on the rail. Such a programmable relay allows control over certain local processes. An example is the system used for irrigation. It is also possible to switch off and on certain consumer groups. A display is mounted for ease of use. Designated protection class IP20.

Price - 35 thousand rubles.

• ease of control over the current state of the system;
• wide area of ​​use;
• convenient display;
• control.

• cost.

Schneider Electric Zelio Logic

The model can be met by the consumer in several variations. These are modular and monoblock relays, which greatly affects their applications. The popular FBD programming language is used, but Ladder can be used. The relay can be installed in lighting controllers, escalator control systems, pumping units. It should be noted that the manufacturer allows the use of the relay in the ACS.

The approximate cost is 15 thousand rubles.

• wide range of applications;
• clear interface;
• configuration variations;
• functionality.

• not identified.

OMRON ZEN-10C1DR-D-V2

Compact relay for DIN rail mounting. It can be used to automate local equipment. For subsequent programming, you need a computer or laptop connected to the system. A convenient display is used for everyday tasks. The declared protection is IP20, which is considered a standardized indicator. For more convenience, a timer is installed.

Price - 13.5 thousand rubles.

• the presence of a timer;
• convenient display;
• application of the extension device;
• efficiency.

• not detected.

DigiTop PB-2C

The simplest design of a time relay, the installation of which is carried out outside the house or apartment. The areas of application are very limited. Can be used to start pumps or organize the operation of light sources. For normal operation, it is enough to set a certain time interval, which will be enough to turn off and turn on the electrical equipment. Daily mode of operation is allowed.

The price of the set is 4.5 thousand rubles.

• acceptable cost;
• practicality;
• guarantee period;
• performance;
• reliability.

• functionality.

Conclusion

The use of a programmable relay is fairly straightforward. The unit will perfectly cope with situations of a local plan, which do not require practically any changes. Able to cope with simple situations. The functionality of the device will grow as its cost. In some cases, it is more profitable to install a relay than a PLC, which requires a separate operator interface. Despite its limited capabilities, the programmable relay is used for:

• the formation of a long pulse at the output;
• turn-on delays in time;
• solving problems related to the input signal.

The programmable relay offers some advantages in 4-8 output and 4-8 input applications.