Can you use a MOSFET as a relay?

Can you use a MOSFET as a relay?

A MOSFET relay offers superior performance to an electromechanical relay in many applications. It is a solid-state device that replaces a coil-activated mechanical switch with an optically isolated input stage driving a MOSFET.

Should I use a MOSFET or relay?

Contact resistance: An advantage of MOSFET relays is that the contact resistance is load-independent and remains constant over its service life. However, the value of the contact resistance is higher than with electromechanical relays and can be several ohms, depending on the switching voltage.

Is a relay the same as a MOSFET?

Relays provide complete electrical isolation. They offer higher current flow limits, and are cheaper. Mosfets are active, non-linear devices. But they are not interchangeable.

What can you use instead of a relay?

In this case you would use a switching transistor. A transistor is an electronic device that can work as a switch. It allows control of a large current by a smaller current as does a relay. Unlike a relay, however, a transistor is not mechanical, and can operate much faster than a relay.

How MOSFET acts as a switch?

The two MOSFETs are configured to produce a bi-directional switch from a dual supply with the motor connected between the common drain connection and ground reference. When the input is LOW the P-channel MOSFET is switched-ON as its gate-source junction is negatively biased so the motor rotates in one direction.

How much current can a MOSFET handle?

Modern MOSFETs can have on resistances of less than 10 milliohms. A little math shows that this device can handle 10 amps with one watt converted into waste heat (power = current2 x resistance).

Do you need a transistor for a relay?

1) The relay needs 12V on the input to turn on. An Arduino GPIO only outputs 5V. A transistor in between will allow a 5V signal from the Arduino to switch a 12V signal via the transistor to the relay – thus turning it on. 2) The transistor provides protection.