Relay sockets function with electromechanical switches called relays. The relay plugs into the relay socket. In a relay, one electric circuit controls another circuit's flow of electricity with varying current. Relay sockets are used in many industries, including automotive, aerospace, computer and electronics. While all relay sockets perform the same function, the specific application determines the type of relay socket needed. Relay sockets are available in a wide range of sizes, materials, shapes and colors.

Relay sockets have various receptacle styles, mounting styles and pin configurations. Specific applications have requirements for the relay socket's rating, dielectric strength, insulation resistance and temperature range. For example, a relay socket mounted on a computer's circuit board doesn't need to survive the poor environmental conditions found in an automotive application. When purchasing relay sockets, consider the following:

1. Order relay sockets with receptacle styles that match your specific applications.

2. Use miniature relay sockets in small-scale applications.

3. Purchase automotive relay sockets for use in vehicles.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find power relay sockets with receptacle styles that fit your application

Several types of receptacle styles exist for relay sockets. Your specific application determines the type of receptacle needed. Receptacle styles include octal or circular, square or cube and blade or lug.

I recommend: Find octal and square-base relay sockets at Magnecraft. The manufacturer offers industrial relay sockets with several mounting styles, including PCB or chassis mount and screw, quick connect and solder. Browse a large inventory of electrical socket relays with various receptacle styles at Electronic Surplus.

Purchase miniature relay sockets

Miniature relay sockets are sometimes referred to as midget relay sockets. As their name implies, miniature relay sockets are simply smaller versions of the electrical component.

I recommend: Browse a line of miniature relay socket assemblies at Curtis Industries. The manufacturer offers miniature relay sockets with several different pin configurations. Buy miniature relay sockets online at Hosfelt Electronics. The distributor's inventory includes a 14-pin, panel or surface mount miniature relay socket.

Order automotive relay sockets

The automotive industry uses relay sockets in many vehicle components. Automotive relay sockets include pre-wired relay sockets, horn relay sockets and car alarm relay sockets. Automotive relay sockets are constructed of metal or composite materials capable of tolerating harsh conditions.

I recommend: Custom Connector offers a large inventory of automotive power relay sockets. All of the company's relay sockets are molded from heat stabilized thermoplastic for performance in extreme temperatures. Find automotive relay sockets from various manufacturers at TESSCO. The distributor's relay sockets are protected by a one-year warranty. Order a pre-wired car relay socket online at Wiringproducts.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Typically, relay sockets have 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 14 or 16 pins; however, some applications require a number of pins not commonly available. For these applications, place your relay socket orders with companies that stock parts for your specific application rather than socket relay distributors.