Hi... This seems like one of those basic electronics questions, but no matter how much I read articles on the web, I just can't sort it out.
I have a 12V 6W solenoid valve
Info, and a float switch
spec sheet. According to a
warning from the switch manufacturer, "The magnetic reeds enclosed in our liquid level sensors are extremely reliable and long-lasting when utilized properly. Failures are nearly always a result of current overloading. Pumps, solenoids and many other devices that require control by a liquid level sensor carry "steady state" current ratings. These devices can draw ten times (or more) their steady state power ratings on start-up or shut-down. When the reeds inside our switches are exposed to this kind of "spiking voltage" they can overheat and become deformed. In some cases they may even weld together or break off, causing the switch circuit to remain closed (or open) regardless of the level of the float. Deformed reeds can also function intermittently, causing problems with troubleshooting. A 50 watt float switch can be destroyed by a pump rated at 6 watts and, unfortunately, it may take many cycles before the failure occurs."
It says to use relays, but I don't have a relay handy. I do have transistors, though, specifically MJE3055T and MJE2955T power transistors, so I thought I'd try to get it to work with that.
The first thing I notice is that the Vebo is 5V. Does that mean I should divide the voltage before even it gets into the base?
And then, I just can't make heads or tails out of calculating the base resistor. I'm hoping someone here might be able to help.
Thanks!