Polarity protection circuits

The most simple polarity protection tehnique is to connect a series diode to the power line input. The diode conducts only when the power supply protection is correct. But the incovenient is that at higher current levels, the voltage drops and power loss of the diode affects the power level adversely.

This polarity protection circuit is dimensioned for 12 V power supplies and avoids the voltage and power loss problem. By correct polarity, the current flowing to the D1 and the relay coil causes the relay contacts to activate. The NO contact closes powering the electronic device. The NC contact opens and the current supplying the relay coil is reduced to a low level just enough to maintain relay activation.




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