DPDT Relay or H Bridge?

Projects General Guidance
1

I'm using Arduino to control a 12 VDC linear actuator, which requires the polarity to be reversed in order to change directions. My power supply is 12V/10A. Which is a better method to reverse polarity: DPDT Relay or H bridge?

2

Both would work.

Better, what does this mean?

If the operation is slow and intermittent, I usually use a relay.

3

So the H bridge below is what I currently have set up (except with with my 12V/10A power supply) and it's not working. I'm using 2N3904 NPN Transistors. Is there any reason why this setup wouldn't work?

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4

12V/10A power supply.
12 VDC linear actuator

What is the resistance ?

2N3904 Absolute Maximum rating for Ic is 300ma.

5

20k resistors

6

20k resistors ? ?

What is a actuator’s resistance?

7

You have omitted to mention whether you require speed control.

If you only require full speed at forward or reverse, then you use two SPDT relays.

8

Not sure about internal resistance. Below is a link for the actuator I'm using. And speed control is not required.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1500N-Linear-Actuator-12V-Electric-Motor-330-Lbs-Auto-Lift-Window-Door-Opener-US/362311756775?hash=item545b76abe7:m:mzsm400ni_g0erzyXgrclng:rk:1:pf:0