Impulse Relay Push-Button Control | MINI

SKU: RFF1220
16.00€
16.00€
Subtotal: 16.00€

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Toggle Relay / Impulse Relay / Push Button Relay (Flip-Flop Relay)

A Toggle Relay—also known as an Impulse Relay, Push Button Relay, Flip-Flop Relay, Stepping Relay or Latching Relay—is a specific type of relay designed to switch one load ON/OFF from two or more momentary push buttons wired in parallel.

Each press sends a short pulse to the control input: 1st press → ON, 2nd press → OFF, 3rd press → ON… and so on. This is the same operating logic as a household stairway impulse relay (télérupteur), adapted to 12V/24V DC systems and marine/automotive wiring standards.

Why use a Toggle Relay onboard?

It enables clean multi-location control of a single circuit without routing high load current through multiple switches. Only a low-current control signal goes to the push buttons, while the relay contacts handle the load.

Typical onboard applications

  • Cockpit light: switch it when boarding and when leaving the boat
  • Cabin lights: entry point + bedside (berth) + central control panel (often near the chart table)
  • Modern layouts: add extra control at helm starboard and helm port while keeping a master control

Recommended wiring (simple and scalable)

For a multi-button installation, a 3–4 core cable is typically ideal:

  1. +12V / +24V permanent (control feed)
  2. 0V / Ground (return)
  3. Control signal (pulse to the relay control input)
  4. Optional: LED feedback (indicator state wire)

LED feedback (optional, recommended)

If your push buttons include an LED indicator, a dedicated feedback wire lets each button display the real circuit state: LED ON when the load is ON, LED OFF when the load is OFF. A common approach is to drive the LED from the relay’s switched output so the indicator always matches the actual accessory state.

Notes

  • Designed for momentary push buttons (wired in parallel)
  • No programming required (no controller, no app)
  • Relay contacts provide ON/OFF toggling (flip-flop function)

Technical Specifications

Type Impulse Relay / Toggle Relay / Latching Relay
Nominal Voltage 12V DC
Contact Configuration 5-Pin Changeover (SPDT)
Contact Rating 30A (NO – Terminal 87) / 20A (NC – Terminal 87a)
Control Input Impulse control via momentary push button (parallel wiring supported)
Trigger Time < 0.1 second pulse
Coil Terminals 85 (Ground) / 86 (Signal +12V trigger)
Power Terminal 30 (Battery + input)
Output Terminals 87 (Normally Open) / 87a (Normally Closed)
Harness Pre-wired harness, 150mm length
Fuse Holder Integrated ATO/ATC inline fuse holder
Fuses Included 5A / 10A / 15A / 20A / 30A
Function Flip-Flop ON/OFF switching (1st press ON, 2nd press OFF)
Equivalent E.T.A RT-200-000-00 / E.T.A EXR30 (functional equivalent)

Frequently Asked Question

What is a 12V impulse relay used for?

A 12V impulse relay lets you control the same accessory from several momentary push buttons. The first press turns the circuit ON, the second press turns it OFF. It works like a domestic stairway relay, but adapted to 12V/24V DC systems such as boats, vans, RVs and 4x4 installations.

Can I create a two-way or multi-way switch system in 12V?

Yes. An impulse relay allows you to create a multi-way control system in 12V without complex power wiring. The momentary push buttons are wired in parallel and simply send a pulse to the relay. This allows one light, pump or accessory to be controlled from several locations.

What is the difference between a standard relay and an impulse relay?

A standard relay switches a load according to the state of a switch or coil supply. An impulse relay changes state with each short press on a momentary push button: ON, OFF, ON, OFF. This makes it much better suited for multi-point control with push buttons.

Why use an impulse relay on a boat, van or 4x4?

On a boat, van or 4x4, you may need to control the same light or accessory from several places. An impulse relay avoids running heavy power cables everywhere. The push buttons only carry a control signal, while the relay handles the main load.

Can I use LED push buttons with an impulse relay?

Yes, but the LED must be wired correctly. The cleanest method is to connect the LED feedback to the switched output of the relay, so the indicator shows the real state of the accessory: LED ON when the accessory is powered, LED OFF when it is off.