LED flasher relays are devices used to control the blinking rate of LEDs. It can be used to make signal lights, turn indicators, and other flashing LED lights. The 4 pin LED flasher relay is one of the most commonly used types of LED flasher relays. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to wire a 4 pin LED flasher relay.
What is a 4 Pin LED Flasher Relay?
A 4 pin LED flasher relay is a device that regulates the blinking rate of LED lights. It has a built-in circuit that can operate in different modes depending on the type of LED lights connected to it. It operates by pulsing power to the LED lights causing it to blink at a specific rate. It is typically used to create turn signal lights, hazard lights, or any other flashing LED lights.
How Does a 4 Pin LED Flasher Relay Work?
A 4 pin LED flasher relay works by pulsing power to the LED lights. It has a built-in circuit that regulates the frequency of the pulses. The frequency of the pulses determines the blinking rate of the LED lights. The relay has four pins that correspond to different functions:
| Pin Number | Function |
|---|---|
| 1 | Positive (+) terminal |
| 2 | Negative (-) terminal |
| 3 | Load terminal (L) |
| 4 | Ground terminal (G) |
What are the Different Modes of a 4 Pin LED Flasher Relay?
A 4 pin LED flasher relay can operate in different modes, namely:
- Normal mode: This mode is used for regular LED flashing lights. It operates at a standard rate of 60 to 120 times per minute.
- Slow mode: This mode is used for LED flashing lights that require a slower rate of blinking. It operates at a rate of 40 to 60 times per minute.
- Fast mode: This mode is used for LED flashing lights that require a faster rate of blinking. It operates at a rate of 120 to 180 times per minute.
- Hyper flash mode: This mode is used when installing LED lights that have lower power consumption compared to their halogen counterparts. It prevents the LED lights from blinking too fast, which is a common problem with LED replacements.
Wiring a 4 Pin LED Flasher Relay
Wiring a 4 pin LED flasher relay is easy and straightforward. Follow the steps below:
Step 1: Prepare the Wiring and Tools
Before starting, make sure to prepare the following:
- 4 pin LED flasher relay
- LED lights
- Wires
- Screwdriver or pliers
- Wire stripper or scissors
Gather all the necessary tools and materials before proceeding.
Step 2: Identify the Pins and Their Functions
Identify the four pins of the 4 pin LED flasher relay and their corresponding functions. Refer to the table provided above.
Step 3: Connect the Positive (+) and Negative (-) Terminals
Locate the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals of the LED lights. Connect the positive (+) terminal of the LED lights to the positive (+) terminal of the 4 pin LED flasher relay using a wire. Connect the negative (-) terminal of the LED lights to the negative (-) terminal of the 4 pin LED flasher relay using a wire. Use screwdrivers or pliers to tighten the connections.
Step 4: Connect the Load Terminal (L)
Locate the load terminal (L) of the 4 pin LED flasher relay. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the LED lights using a wire. Use screwdrivers or pliers to tighten the connection.
Step 5: Connect the Ground Terminal (G)
Locate the ground terminal (G) of the 4 pin LED flasher relay. Connect it to the negative (-) terminal of the LED lights using a wire. Use screwdrivers or pliers to tighten the connection.
Step 6: Test the Wiring
After wiring everything, test the LED lights and the 4 pin LED flasher relay. Turn on the power source and observe the blinking rate of the LED lights. If it blinks too fast or too slow, switch to the appropriate mode of the 4 pin LED flasher relay.
FAQs
What is the difference between a 3 pin and a 4 pin LED flasher relay?
A 3 pin LED flasher relay has three pins, namely: positive (+) terminal, negative (-) terminal, and the load terminal. On the other hand, a 4 pin LED flasher relay has an additional ground terminal (G). The ground terminal is connected to the chassis of the vehicle or the grounding source to complete the circuit.
How do I choose the appropriate mode?
Choose the appropriate mode depending on the type of LED lights and the desired blinking rate. Use the normal mode for regular LED flashing lights. Use the slow mode for LED flashing lights that require a slower rate of blinking. Use the fast mode for LED flashing lights that require a faster rate of blinking. Use the hyper flash mode when installing LED lights that have lower power consumption compared to their halogen counterparts.
Can I use a 4 pin LED flasher relay for hazard lights?
Yes, a 4 pin LED flasher relay can be used for hazard lights. Wire the LED lights in a way that they blink simultaneously, and then connect them to the load terminal of the 4 pin LED flasher relay.
Can I connect more than one LED light to a 4 pin LED flasher relay?
Yes, you can connect more than one LED light to a 4 pin LED flasher relay as long as the LED lights have the same output voltage and current requirements.
