Gen3 Ethernet Relay

ZADR81DPDTPROXR_ETHERNET - Next-Generation Ethernet Relay Control

Meet the NCD5500 Ethernet-to-Serial Converter, NCD's 3rd-generation Ethernet module designed for exceptional reliability, ease of use, and lower cost. This modular interface brings the entire line of NCD Industrial Devices onto your Ethernet network with plug-and-play simplicity.

Built on NCD's next-generation Ethernet-to-Serial platform, the NCD5500 is customized specifically for NCD controllers to ensure full compatibility across our product families, including ProXR, ProXR Lite, Reactor, and Taralist boards. The module converts TCP/IP data into serial bytes and routes them directly to your controller via standard serial communication.

The NCD5500 works seamlessly with Base Station, making IP discovery and configuration fast and simple.
Default web-page login password: admin (user-changeable).

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Ethernet to Serial Communications Module

The Gen3 module converts TCP packets to serial data (and back again) for smooth, real-time control.

Features include:

• Auto Socket Control - Choose to close the socket after a programmable timeout or keep the connection open
• Connection Status LED - A blue LED indicates an active socket connection
• Flexible Baud Rates - Adjustable from 9600 to 115.2K, using the default TCP port 2101
• Network Options - Supports both Static IP and DHCP
• One-Button Recovery - Restore factory defaults instantly with a simple button press

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DHCP and Static IP Addresses

This module supports both DHCP and Static IP addressing.
For the most reliable remote access, we recommend using a Static IP Address once you are comfortable with the network configuration. This ensures consistent communication and predictable device access.

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TCP/IP Communications

The primary communication method is a standard TCP Socket. This creates a bi-directional connection, allowing your computer or control system to send commands and immediately receive responses through the same socket - fast, robust, and ideal for relay control applications.

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3rd Generation Hardware

The latest hardware represents a major leap forward in reliability, usability, and cost efficiency.

Key improvements include:

• Lower overall cost compared to previous generations
• Enhanced recovery options
• Web-based configuration UI
• Windows utility for discovering devices with unknown IP addresses
• Firmware upgrade support for feature updates and improvements

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Password Protection

Password protection is built in.
Under the management tab, users can assign a password for added security and access control.

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Port Forwarding

To access the module from outside your Local Area Network, Port Forwarding is required.
Your router forwards incoming requests on a specific port (e.g., 2101) to the device's local IP address.

Example:
A router is configured to forward port 2101 to 92.168.2.19:2101. Any external request to port 2101 is automatically routed to the module. Without this rule, the router would not know where to send the request, and the connection would fail.

Note: Port Forwarding is not needed for communication within your LAN.

For step-by-step instructions for virtually any router, visit https://portforward.com/ .

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Gen3 Web Page Control

Built-In Web Control for Gen3 Ethernet

With the 3rd-Generation Ethernet module, web control is now integrated directly into the device - no separate modules required. The Gen3 module stores and serves web pages that allow you to control relays right from your browser. Pre-built pages are included and can be uploaded using the free configuration software, or you can customize them using your favorite HTML editor.

Web pages automatically match the number of relays on your board and are currently supported on ProXR Lite controllers.

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Key Features

• Web-Based Relay Control - Access onboard web pages to control relays directly from your browser
• Ready-to-Use Pages
• Customizable Interface
• Optimized for ProXR Lite

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Connectivity Options

Once configured, the onboard web pages can be accessed from any device with a web browser - smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Because it's browser-based, it works across Android, iOS, Windows, and virtually any modern browser.

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Built-In Working Web Pages

The Gen3 module includes web pages tailored to the exact number of relays on your controller, as well as a dedicated page for reading analog inputs on ProXR Lite boards.

Features include:

• Relay control pages/
• Analog input monitoring
• Password protection
• Macro creation

Download relay-matched pages at: https://github.com/ncd-io/ncd_Ethernet.

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Custom Web Page Upload

The latest NCD5500 Control Panel (v1.0.0.7) supports uploading your own custom HTML page.
Because this is an embedded device, page size should remain small, but you now have full flexibility to:

• Modify sample HTML files
• Design your own interface
• Upload the page directly to the module

Sample pages and board-specific HTML files are available here: https://github.com/ncd-io/ncd_Ethernet.

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Read Analog Sensors

All ProXR Lite controllers include an 8-channel, 8/10-bit ADC.
The built-in ADC page displays live readings from the analog inputs (0 - 255 range), showing real-time values through on-page meters - accessible from your phone, tablet, or computer.

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Smart Phone Control

Once the Web-i page loads on your phone, simply bookmark it or add it to your home screen for app-like access.
As long as your device has an internet connection, you can monitor and control your relays from anywhere in the world, even over 3G or 4G networks!

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LAN or Internet Control

Control relays inside your local network or remotely from anywhere on the internet.
Once port forwarding is set up on your router, you can access Web-i pages just like any standard website. Use the built-in pages as-is or upload custom pages to match your application.

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Web-i Setup

A small amount of configuration is required to enable Web-i functionality.

• Using the configuration software:
• Select the Web-i option
• Upload the appropriate HTML page for your relay count
• Assign a Static IP Address for consistent access
• Access the web pages in your browser using the module?s IP address

The ProXR DPDT Relay Board

Easy Software Development

Most of our customers write their own program for controlling these devices. Since you can use almost any programming language, you can use one that is most familiar to you so you don't have to learn a new language.  These boards support the Serial Port Profile, meaning they will mount to the computer as a virtual com port. This makes it very easy to send commands to the device.

Plug-In for Visual Studio

The NCD Component Library is a plug-in for the Visual Studio 2005/2008 that greatly simplifies the communications to the NCD product line. The samples can be run in Visual Studio and full customization to your needs.  Over 40 samples included with this free download!  Component Library.

Base Station Software

Base Station Software was designed to help you learn the ProXR command set.  Explore ProXR features using it's Graphical User Interface.  Watch data bytes flow to and from the board, so you easily understand the command execution process.  There is no faster or easier way to learn how to automate than Base Station, as it was designed to work with the complete array of communication modules.  Base Station software supports every feature of this device - no other controller manufacturer even comes close to offering this type of software. 

Essential Power Requirements

Applying Good clean power to the board is essential for the operation of the board.  Not only for the switching of the relays but the firmware that processes the commands.  Without good steady clean power from a regulated power supply the board simply will not function correctly.  All boards on the site require 12 VDC power.  The PWR12 US power supply is a 120VAC to 12VDC 1.25A 60Hz regulated power supply and it plugs into the barrel connector on the board.  The output connector is a 2.1mm I.D. x 5.5mm O.D. x 9.5mm Female R/A barrel connector.  We also carry an international power supply with interchangeable adapters for international customers. Learn More

Read Analog Sensors

This ProXR controller offers a 8-Channel 8/10-Bit Analog to Digital Converter in addition to relay control.  Read and control from 8 sensors per board from 0 to 5 volts!

ProXR Enhanced Firmware Installed

This board has ProXR Firmware installed that responds to the full ProXR Command Set.  The ProXR Firmware is the industry leading firmware for controlling relays with more commands and functionality than any other board on the market.  The list of commands and parameters this board is capable of is extensive.  ProXR Enhanced is the newly released enhance version of the ProXR Firmware with more commands, more functionality and better control than ever before!  For a detailed list of all the commands with descriptions see our ProXR Enhanced Command Set.

DPDT Relays Installed

This board has DPDT relays installed.  A single DPDT relay is made up of 2 SPDT switches.  Each relay acts as two switches that are activated at the same time.  This allows two independent signals to be switched at one time.  In effect, there are two independent switches on a single DPDT relay - they will always switch together.  There are two connectors with Normally Open, Normally Closed and Common for each relay allowing two separate connections.  The diagram below shows the how the arms of the common swing from the Normally Closed to the Normally Open positions when energized.  Wiring to either the NO or NC can produce your desired results.

2-Million Cycles

ProXR series controllers are designed for long life, you should expect to get years of service from your controller and literally 2-million cycles from the relays on board.  With a 5-year warranty and a money back guarantee you have nothing to loose!  Place your order now, while everything is in front of you.

This Board is RoHS Compliant

This board is led free and RoHS Compliant.  If your requirements are for RoHS compliant parts this board is manufactured with RoHS compliant led free parts and solder.

Add Relays as Your Needs Grow

The ProXR series controllers are expandable up to 256 total relays.  The controller is fitted with an XR Expansion Port where you can add expansion boards to this relay.  Expansion boards can be added until you reach 256 total relays.  The Expansion Boards get their logic from the main board and will require 12 VDC power. Expansion boards do not need to be the same relay amperage as the main board or other expansion boards.

16 User-Programmable Timers

The ProXR Series controllers have 16 user-programmable timers. Each independent timer can be assigned to any relay, and can be programmed to hold the relay in the On state, or to pulse the relay at the end of the timer.  The ProXR timing features are ideally suited for Watchdog, Keep Alive, and Server Reboot applications, as well as sprinkler systems, gate openers, and lighting applications.  Relay Timing Features support two modes of operation: Duration and Pulse. Duration timing is ideally suited where a device should be activated for a period of time. Pulse timing mode is designed specifically for server reboot applications, whereby, if the timer is not reset periodically by your software, the timer will run out and reboot your computer.

5-Year Warranty/Money Back Guarantee

ProXR series controllers are guaranteed against manufacturing and functionality defects for a full 5 years!  Not to mention a 30-day money back guarantee!  If for any reason you are not happy with a relay purchased from Relay Pros, simply return it within 30 days and we will give you your money back!  Controllers that are damaged by our customers will not of course be warranted under any circumstances. 

Induction Suppression

Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of relay control is proper handling of inductive loads. Inductive loads can best be defined as anything with a magnetic coil, such as a motor, solenoid, or a transformer.  Controlling a inductive load using this relay board requires an induction suppression capacitor for each relay being used.  The purpose of this capacitor is to absorb the high voltages generated by inductive loads, blocking them from the contacts of the relay.  Without this capacitor, the lifespan of the relay will be greatly reduced.  Induction can be so severe that it interferes with the logic of the board, causing relay banks to shut down unexpectedly.  For more information view our Induction Suppression Video.

Shipping

The boards sold are brand new units shipped from our office conveniently located in Missouri.  These boards are completely tested before they are released for shipping  With so many boards on our site it is impossible to stock boards, please allow two to three days production time for your order to ship.  If you have any questions please feel free to call our office at 800-960-4287 or e-mail us at sales@relaypros.com.

ProXR Control Is Here!

A more streamlined manufacturing process brings a more durable, reliable and better relay board to the market.  Here's a lists of great features:

User Friendly Board Design
• "Wall Wart" or direct power capability
• Relay status light bar
• XR Expansion Port - easily add more relays
• Easy screw terminal connections
• DPDT Relays with 2 connections per relay

ProXR Features
• Works with the full ProXR Enhanced Command Set
• 8-Channel 8/10-Bit Analog to Digital Converter
• Highly reliable relay with industry leading command set
• 16 programmable timers available

The ProXR Command Set

ProXR Firmware

The firmware on the Ethernet Relay board supports the ProXR Command Set, offering more commands and functionality than any other relay board on the market! The list of available commands and parameters is extensive, giving you full control. You can write your own control program in almost any programming language.

Key Features

• Extensive Command Set: More commands and functionality than any other relay board.
• Programming Flexibility: Compatible with nearly any programming language.
• User-Friendly Software: Free software available for non-programmers to easily control relays without coding.

Introduction

The ProXR Series Controllers allow you to control up to 2048 relays depending on your controller model.  Relays are divided into groups of 8 called banks, and are addressed by their bank number.  For instance, a ProXR series controller with 32 on-board relays has four on-board banks, the on-board relays respond to bank values of 1-4.  If you use the XR Expansion port to add another bank of 24 relays, then you will need to specify bank values of 5-7 to control the extra relays.  The firmware doesn’t actually know how many relays are attached to the relay controller, it is up to the user to define how many relays are attached to the controller using Base Station Software.  The ProXR CPU will assume you have connected the maximum number of supported relays to your controller.  In the ProXR Quick Start Guide, you will see two commands that appear to do the same thing, for example:

  254 0-7 Turn Off Individual Relays
  254 100-107 Bank# Turn Off Individual Relays in Bank
  254 8-15 Turn On Individual Relays
  254 108-115 Turn On Individual Relays in Bank
  254 16-23 Get the Status of an Individual Relay
  254 116-123 Bank# Get the Status of an Individual Relay in Bank
While the outcome is the same, these commands function in slightly different ways.

For instance:
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1
To make this command work, you will send a 254, then a 8 to activate a relay. By default, relay bank 1 will be affected by this command. However, you can redirect this command to a different relay bank using the following command:
  254 49 2  Direct Commands to Relay Bank 2
Then you can send:
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1 in Bank 2

Here are a few more Bank Specified Examples:
  254 49 1 Direct Commands to Relay Bank 1
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1 in Bank 1
  254 49 2 Direct Commands to Relay Bank 2
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1 in Bank 2
  254 9 Turn On Relay 2 in Bank 2
  254 10 Turn On Relay 3 in Bank 2
  254 49 3 Direct Commands to Relay Bank 3
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1 in Bank 3
  254 11 Turn On Relay 4 in Bank 3
  254 12 Turn On Relay 5 in Bank 3
  254 13 Turn On Relay 6 in Bank 3
  254 14 Turn On Relay 7 in Bank 3
  254 49 0 Direct Commands to All Relay Banks
  254 8 Turn On Relay 1 in All Relay Banks

This command structure has the advantage of being very fast and efficient. However, if power to the controller is ever lost, commands will automatically be directed to bank 1 when power to the controller has been restored. This command methodology is generally advisable for ProXR controllers with 8 or fewer relays. When working with more than 8 relays, we generally advise users to use Bank Directed commands as shown in the following examples.

Turns Off Relays in the Currently Selected Relay Bank

This command will control the Off status of specified relays in the Currently Selected Relay Bank.  This command has optional parameters <1-7> for controlling the Off status of the remaining relays, 1 being the next relay in sequence, 2-7 being all possible subsequent relays in the selected relay bank.  A value of 0 refers to the first relay in the specified relay bank, 7 being the 8th and final relay of the selected Relay Bank. This command sends byte value 85 back to the user when the operation has been completed.

Send Bytes:	Byte 1:	Byte 2:	Byte 3:
Function:	Command	Command	Optional Parameters
Decimal Values:	254	0-7	1-7
Hex Values	0xFE	0x00 - 0x07	0x01 - 0x07
Receive Byte:	Decimal:	85
	Hex:	0x55

Turns On Relays in the Currently Selected Relay Bank

This command will control the On status of specified relays in the Currently Selected Relay Bank.  This command has optional parameters <1-7> for controlling the On status of the remaining relays, 1 being the next relay in sequence, 2-7 being all possible subsequent relays in the selected relay bank.  A value of 0 refers to the first relay in the specified relay bank, 7 being the 8th and final relay of the selected Relay Bank.  This command sends byte value 85 back to the user when the operation has been completed.

Send Bytes:	Byte 1:	Byte 2:	Byte 3:
Function:	Command	Command	Optional Parameters
Decimal Values:	254	8-15	1-7
Hex Values	0xFE	0x08 - 0x0F	0x01 - 0x07
Receive Byte:	Decimal:	85
	Hex:	0x55

Read the Status of Relays in the Currently Selected Relay Bank

This command will report the On/Off status of Relays 0-7 in the Currently Selected Relay Bank.  This command sends byte value of 0 of 1 back to the user when the operation has been completed, 0 reporting an Off status and 1 reporting an On status.

Send Bytes:	Byte 1:	Byte 2:
Function:	Command	Command
Decimal Values:	254	16-23
Hex Values	0xFE	0x10 - 0x17
Receive Byte:	Decimal:	0 or 1
	Hex:	0x00 or 0x01

Full Command Set

These are only a few examples from the ProXR Command set so you can get an idea of the command structure.  Download the ProXR Quick Start Guide to view the full command set ProXR Quick Start Guide.

Base Station Software

Base Station Software was designed to help you learn the ProXR command set!  No other relay board manufacturer even comes close to offering this type of software!  Explore ProXR features using it's Graphical User Interface.  Watch data bytes flow to and from the board, so you easily understand the command execution process.  There is no faster or easier way to learn how to automate than Base Station, as it was designed to work with all the communication modules we offer!  You only need a Windows 8 or 10 Computer to Run Base Station. 

Base Station Features

There are some useful features to look for when using Base Station Software to control, test, or configure your device:

• At the bottom left corner of each window there is a link to relevant documentation for your device
• In the Control Command Set Window, and many others, there is a MORE or LESS option at the top right corner.  Selecting MORE allows you to view specific communication details.
• All the functions of the command set are available as a point-and-click interface plus you can see the command that is being sent to the board!

The AD8 Command Set

Reading Switches/Variable Resistance Signals

This controller includes eight channels of 8/10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converters capable of reading 0 - 5V DC signals. The ADCs allow you to monitor external sensors or detect contact-closure inputs. Connect temperature sensors, light sensors, current sensors, buttons, switches, or any device that outputs a 0 - 5V signal or simple contact closure.

• With 8-bit resolution, inputs convert 0 - 5V into values from 0 to 255
• With 10-bit resolution, values range from 0 to 1023

Resolution is software-selectable. Request an analog value from the controller and it responds instantly.

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Analog Inputs Controlling Relays

ProXR AD8 controllers allow analog inputs to directly control onboard relays. Inputs can be assigned to turn relays on or off, toggle states, flash relays, enable/disable flashing, send push-notification data, and more.

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Analog to Digital Connections

AD8 controllers are designed for stable sensor and switch monitoring. A/D inputs should never be left floating - each input must connect to a voltage or ground.

A built-in 10K pull-up/pull-down resistor (jumper-selectable) ties each input to +5V or ground to prevent floating conditions. While this resistor adds slight loading, the improved stability far outweighs any minor interference.

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AD8 Command Set

The AD8 Command Set reads analog voltages using the controller's 8-channel 8/10-bit ADC.

• 8-bit mode: Converts 0 - 5V to values from 0 to 255
• 10-bit mode: Converts 0 - 5V to values from 0 to 1023

Because 10-bit values transmit as two bytes (MSB and LSB), reconstruct the full reading using: 10BitValue = (MSB - 256) + LSB

Reads the 8-Bit Analog Input of Channels

This command will read the Analog Input of Channels 1-8 and return an 8-bit value for each.

Send Bytes:	Byte 1:	Byte 2:
Function:	Command	Parameter (Channel 1-8)
Decimal Values:	254	150-157
Hex Values	0xFE	0x96 - 0x9D
Receive Byte:	Decimal:	0-255
	Hex:	0x00-0xFF

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Full Command Set

These are just a few examples from the AD8 Command Set to help illustrate the command structure. For the complete list of commands, download the AD Quick Start Guide.

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Base Station

Base Station software lets you read all analog inputs in real time and also displays the exact commands being sent. This makes it easy to integrate those commands directly into your own applications or custom programming.

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Relay Activator

Relay Activator and Analog Inputs

The Relay Activator control panel lets you use analog inputs to directly control onboard relays. Just connect buttons or switches to the analog inputs and trigger simple on/off actions for manual relay control. Each of the eight inputs can be assigned one of eight functions, including turning relays on or off, toggling relay states, flashing a relay momentarily, toggling the flash function, turning all relays on, turning all relays off, or generating push-notification events using N-Button Software.

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Relay Activator for Manual Control

Relay Activator is ideal for applications that rely on computer control but still require occasional manual operation. By connecting buttons or switches, you can take direct manual control of any relay. For example, you can turn a relay on via computer and turn it off later using a physical switch - true seamless control from both directions. Download the Relay Activator Quick Start Guide here: AD8 Relay Activator Quick Start Guide.

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N-Button Software

Create Desktop Meters

Using N-Button software, you can create desktop meters that display real-time sensor readings from the AD8 inputs - like having a live meter right on your desktop for constant monitoring. Meters can be built for temperature, moisture, light, and many other sensors with output ranges between 0 and 5 volts. With eight available inputs, you can create and label a custom meter for each one - our example here is labeled "Soil Moisture". Best of all, meter increments are fully customizable to match your application. N-Button Lite and N-Button Pro are available for purchase at checkout.
Visit our N-Button Page

N-Button Lite

Relay Software

N-Button Lite is a 3rd Party Software that is purchased separately that will allow you to control the relays without programming. On the surface the software seams basic but don't be fooled this is a robust software with many applications.

Create Buttons & Widgets

N-Button Pro/Lite creates widgets that float on your desktop to control external devices, send specified data, run applications, send HTTP requests or send data lists.  It supports Serial Port/USB and Network connections between the PC and devices.  It allows you to access and control the widgets remotely.  Through an internet browser, you can control your devices from anywhere with your computer, iPhone, iPad, Android tablet, Windows tablet as well as Linux and Mac!  N-Button Pro/Lite makes it possible to control your devices without any programming with mostly a point-and-click interface!  It supports special widgets developed specifically for the boards on the site.

Supports Up To 16 Widgets

N-Button Lite has all the buttons and widgets of the full version but is limited to 16 widgets.  Created for users with smaller needs to save money, N-Button Lite is a powerful tool for controlling relays or reading A/D inputs with up to 16 widgets.  If you want to add more than 16 widgets, a Pro version is available N-Button.

USB and Network Compatible

N-Button Lite supports Serial Port/ USB and Network connection between the PC and the relay board. Add any type of included N-Button Lite widgets with N-Button Lite Manager. It's also very easy to modify the widget's properties to get the button and configuration you are looking for. N-Button Lite will control most boards on this site. N-Button Lite is not compatible with Reactor/Key Fob or Taralist relay since these controllers have their own configuration software included with the board or MirC/MirX controllers since these don't require any software or programming at all.

Create Relay Buttons

Relay Button Widgets turn on/off relays directly.  It has never been easier to control relays, no programming skills required!  Create a button that turns a relay on and another one to turn the relay off or create a button that toggles (one click turn relay on another turns it off).  It's up to you and easy to configure with a point-and-click interface!

Create Custom Buttons

When you create custom buttons in N-Button Lite you can use any of the commands that are in a ProXR Command Set (provided you purchase a ProXR relay) the industry leading command set and it's quite extensive!  These buttons will be on your desktop of your computer and when you click on a button it will send the command to the board provided the board is connected to the computer.  You can also change the shape, color and text of each button so you will know exactly what each button controls.  The color can even change with the status of the relay (on or off)!

Create Relay Status Widgets

Relay Status widgets shows the status of the relay automatically. Just a glance at your desktop will show the status of the relay!

Create Desktop Meters

Desktop Meters can be created for real time level readings of any variable input sensor.  "It's like having a meter right on your desk for constant monitoring".  Meters can be created for temperature sensors, moisture sensors, light meters and others.  Read the sensor and create relay buttons that will allow at-a-glance determination of the relay status.  Best of all the increments on the meter can be fully customized to fit your needs.  Choose an Analog to Digital controller (look for AD in the part number) purchase a copy of N-Button Pro or N-Button Lite and you can read the A/D levels right on your desktop!   If you have an application where you need to track sensor levels you will have a live real time meter right on your desktop!

Backgrounds

Add some style to your desktop with N-Button Pro and N-Button Lite you can create backgrounds and holders for your buttons like the virtual Key Fob.  Create your own button functions or use one of our pre-installed "V" Fobs ready for download.

Control More Than Just Relay Boards

Customized Button widgets can be set to send specified data to any other connected devices besides relay boards. It can be set to open a file, a folder or a program, run any application or send http request. It also supports send data list.  A group of data can be sent to serial port or IP address just by clicking the created button.

The XR Expansion Port

Add Relays as Your Needs Grow

ProXR Controllers were built with relay expansion in mind.  The XR Expansion Port is used to add banks of external relays to a ProXR or Taralist board equipped with a XR Expansion port.  The ProXR and Taralist boards are fitted with an XR Expansion Port where you can add expansion boards.  Expansion boards can be added until you reach 256 total relays.  As you continue to chain expansion boards onto an XR expansion port, the total number of available relay banks will increase.  Add expansion boards as needed in the future, whenever you require more relays simply order another expansion board.

Linking XR Expansion Boards Together

XR Expansion Boards consist of a XR Input and XR Output Connector.  Simply connect the XR Output of your ProXR Board to the XR Input located on the relay expansion board.  Chaining more relays is easy.  Simply connect the XR Output of your ProXR expansion board to the XR Input of your next expansion board.  Mix and Match different relay types as your application requires.  A 6″ expansion cable is included with the expansion board.  It's important to keep the cabling as short as possible.  Not all users will be able to expand to 256 total relays, as it all depends on the installation, the amount of electrical interference, and the overall cable length.  For best compatibility, the total length of the ProXR controller and all of the expansions and cabling should not exceed 1 or 2 meters.

Will Not Operate Independently

This Expansion Board gets it's commands from the main ProXR or Taralist board and will not operate independently.  This board MUST be plugged into a ProXR or Taralist board to operate and will not function on it's own.

Essential Power Requirements

This and all expansion boards require 12 VDC to operate.  We offer a wall-wart type power supply at checkout if you need to plug this into a 110 wall outlet.  Applying Good clean power to the board is essential for the operation of the board.  Without good steady clean power from a regulated power supply the board simply will not function correctly.  The PWR12 US power supply is a 120VAC to 12VDC 1.25A 60Hz regulated power supply and it plugs into the barrel connector on the board.  The output connector is a 2.1mm I.D. x 5.5mm O.D. x 9.5mm Female R/A barrel connector.  We also carry an international power supply with interchangeable adapters for international customers. Learn More

Maximum Relay Rating Notes

ProXR is capable of expanding to an absolute maximum of 256 Relays.  In some cases, it may not be possible to control all 256 relays, particularly in applications where high noise levels may be involved.  Experimentation may be required, as it is not possible for us to guarantee all users will be able to utilize all 256 relays in every application.  Noise tends to accumulate when several expansions are connected together.  For best results, the XR expansion cables must be as short as possible.

DPDT Relays Installed

This board has DPDT relays installed.  A single DPDT relay is made up of 2 SPDT switches.  Each relay acts as two switches that are activated at the same time.  This allows two independent signals to be switched at one time.  In effect, there are two independent switches on a single DPDT relay - they will always switch together.

There are two connectors with Normally Open, Normally Closed and Common for each relay allowing two separate connections.  The picture above shows the 4-channel connectors.  The diagram to the right shows the how the arms of the common connector swing from the Normally Closed to the Normally Open positions when energized.  Wiring to either the NO or NC can produce your desired results.

Mix & Match

Expansion boards do not need to be the same relay amperage as the main board or other expansion boards.  Mix & match expansion board to get the exact amperage for your switching needs. 

2-Million Cycles

ProXR series controllers are designed for long life, you should expect to get years of service from your controller and literally 2-million cycles from the relays on board.  With a 5-year warranty and a money back guarantee you have nothing to loose!  Place your order now, while everything is in front of you.

This Board is RoHS Compliant

This board is led free and RoHS Compliant.  If your requirements are for RoHS compliant parts this board is manufactured with RoHS compliant led free parts and solder.

5-Year Warranty/Money Back Guarantee

ProXR Lite series controllers are guaranteed against manufacturing and functionality defects for a full 5 years!  Not to mention a 30-day money back guarantee!  If for any reason you are not happy with a relay purchased from Relay Pros, simply return it within 30 days and we will give you your money back!  Controllers that are damaged by our customers will not of course be warranted under any circumstances. 

Shipping

The boards sold are brand new units shipped from our office conveniently located in Missouri.  These boards are completely tested before they are released for shipping  With so many boards on our site it is impossible to stock boards, please allow two to three days production time for your order to ship.  If you have any questions please feel free to call our office at 800-960-4287 or e-mail us at sales@relaypros.com.

Relay Logic

Relay Wiring Samples

This page provides simple examples showing how to wire a single relay - or multiple relays - for common switching applications. We use a light as the example load, but you can substitute a gate controller, security panel input, dry contact device, motor trigger, or most other switched loads. These wiring samples demonstrate different ways to connect relays to achieve the switching behavior you need.

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Relay Types

SPDT Relay

SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) relays include three terminals: Common (COM), Normally Open (NO), and Normally Closed (NC).

• When the relay is off, COM is connected to NC.
• When the relay is energized, COM switches to NO.

Your load can be wired to either the NO or NC terminal depending on whether you want the device to turn on when the relay activates or when it releases. Examples below demonstrate both wiring methods. The SPDT relays offered on this site are 5-Amp, 10-Amp and 20-Amp models.

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SPST Relay

SPST (Single Pole Single Throw) relays provide two terminals: Common (COM) and Normally Open (NO).

When the relay coil is energized, COM connects to NO to power the load. The only SPST relays offered on this site are our 30-Amp models. All SPST examples shown on this page apply to these relays as long as the example does not require a Normally Closed terminal.

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DPDT Relay

A DPDT (Double Pole Double Throw) relay contains two SPDT switches that operate together.

• Each side includes its own COM, NO, and NC terminals.
• Both internal switches change state at the same time.

This allows you to control two independent circuits with one relay. Wiring for each side of a DPDT relay follows the same rules as an SPDT relay, so the examples on this page apply directly. We offer the DPDT relays in 1-Amp, 3-Amp and 5-Amp models on ProXR boards starting at 8 relays.

Relay Grouping in the ProXR Command Set lets you combine individual relays to function like a DPDT relay using separate channels. This is ideal when you need to control multiple relays simultaneously or exceed the 5-Amp switching limit of our standard DPDT relays.

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Relay Logic Examples

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Example 1 - Simple Off/On Control

This example shows the most basic way to use a relay to switch a device such as a light. When the relay energizes, its NO (Normally Open) contact closes to COM (Common), completing the circuit and turning the light on.

Only a single power wire is switched in this setup, making it the simplest method for controlling a light - or any device - using a relay.

Use this example for switching a light or any device you want to power only when the relay is on.

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Example 2 - Simple On/Off (Using NC Contact)

This wiring method keeps the device on by default. The relay switches a single power wire through the COM (Common) and NC (Normally Closed) terminals.
When the relay is not energized, the NC contact is closed to COM and the light remains on.
When the relay energizes, the NC contact opens, interrupting power and turning the light off.

This approach is ideal for devices that stay on most of the time, reducing relay wear since it doesn't need to remain energized to keep the device powered. It's also a useful method for power-cycling equipment - energizing the relay momentarily will turn the device off.

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Example 3 - AND Logic Using Two Relays

This example shows how two relays can work together so a light turns on only when both relays are energized. This creates an AND Logic condition:
Relay 1 AND Relay 2 must be on for the light to receive power.

A single power wire is switched, but it must pass through both relay contacts before reaching the light. This setup is ideal when two conditions must be met at the same time - such as requiring input from multiple sensors or system parameters.

MirC/MirX Users: This wiring requires two contact closure inputs on the sender board before the receiver's relay activates. Use this approach when two independent outputs must close before turning on the light.

For example, a light could turn on only when:
• A light sensor detects it's dark AND
• A motion sensor detects activity in the room

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Example 4 - AND Logic Using Three Relays

This example expands on the previous AND Logic concept. Here, the light will turn on only when all three relays are energized:

Relay 1 AND Relay 2 AND Relay 3 must be on for power to reach the light.

A single power wire is routed through all three relay contacts. Wiring from the NO (Normally Open) of Relay 1 to the COM (Common) of Relay 2, then from the NO of Relay 2 to the COM of Relay 3, creates a series path that requires every relay to close before the light can activate.

This method can be scaled easily - just continue wiring NO of each relay to the COM of the next relay. Add as many relays as needed to meet your logic or safety requirements.

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Example 5 - AND/OR Logic with Override

This example demonstrates a combined AND/OR logic setup. The light will turn on when:

• Relay 1 AND Relay 2 are both energized
  OR
Relay 3 is energized (override)

This wiring is useful when you need a normal logic condition plus a manual or automatic override option.

For example:
• Relay 1 = night/day sensor
• Relay 2 = motion sensor
• Relay 3 = manual override (local switch)

If it's dark and the motion sensor activates, Relays 1 and 2 energize to turn on the light. But if you want to control the light manually - regardless of sensor conditions - Relay 3 can override the logic and activate the light on its own.

A/D Board Users: The Relay Activator function on any A/D board or ProXR Lite board lets you connect a button or switch to any A/D input. This input can then control the override relay, giving you a convenient local button to manually override the first two relays.

MirC/MirX Users: Add a manual button or switch to trigger the third relay when you need direct control instead of sensor-driven control.

Reactor Users: A local button or switch can be wired to the third relay input to provide a manual override for sensor-based logic.

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Example 6 - OR Logic (Either Relay Activates)

This example demonstrates OR Logic - the light will turn on when either relay is energized. Only one power wire is switched, but it can pass through Relay 1 or Relay 2 to reach the light.

• If Relay 1 activates, the light turns on
• If Relay 2 activates, the light turns on
• If both activate, the light remains on

This setup is ideal when two independent sources should be able to control the same device. Common uses include:

• A timer controlling one relay, with a manual or secondary control for the other.
• Two sensors where either condition (motion detected or low light, for example) should activate the light.

A/D Board Users: The Relay Activator function on any A/D board or ProXR Lite board lets you connect a button or switch to any A/D input. This input can then be used as a manual control of the relay.

MirC/MirX Users: Wire two contact closure inputs into the sender board - either input can trigger the receiver relay to control the light.

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Example 7 - 3-Way Switch (Relay-Based 3-Way Control)

This example shows how to create a 3-way light switch setup using relays. A traditional 3-way circuit allows two switches to control the same light from different locations. In this wiring sample, each physical switch is replaced by a relay - but the operation is the same.

Only one power wire is switched, and the relays toggle the light depending on their current state.

• Activating either relay will toggle the light
• Activating both relays at the same time has the same effect as flipping both switches at once

This wiring method is especially useful because you can replace one of the relays with a physical light switch, giving you both computer control and manual control of the same light. When used correctly, this becomes one of the most flexible and powerful diagrams on the page.

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Example 8 - DC Motor Direction Control

This example demonstrates how to control the direction of a DC motor using two relays. By changing how the motor's leads connect to power, you can run the motor forward, reverse, or place it in a brake state. Braking is achieved by tying both motor terminals to the same power connection, which stops rotation through Faraday's Law.

Relay Operation Summary

• Relay 1 Off / Relay 2 Off → Motor Brake to +
• Relay 1 On / Relay 2 Off → Motor Forward
• Relay 1 Off / Relay 2 On → Motor Reverse
• Relay 1 On / Relay 2 On → Motor Brake to -

The capacitors shown are optional for small motors, but may be required in some situations:

• The induction suppression capacitor prevents the relay from shutting off due to motor back-EMF
• The 0.1µF filter capacitor reduces electrical noise, especially useful when powering sensitive electronics such as radios or amplifiers.

Capacitor Placement
• Place the induction suppression capacitor near the relays
• Place the filter capacitor near the motor
• Additional capacitors may be needed for certain motors

Important Note on Inductive Loads
Motors draw significantly more current at startup than during continuous operation - often 2-3 times their rated running current. For example, a motor rated at 5A (125VAC) may require 10-15A to begin turning. Always select a relay that exceeds the motor's initial inrush current, not just its running current. In this case, a 20-30A relay provides optimal performance and longevity.

Base Station Software

Compatible with All Boards on this Site

Base Station software works by communicating with your controller to identify the model and provides the appropriate graphical user interface for controlling and testing the identified device.  Base Station will assist you in learning how any NCD device functions and will provide valuable diagnostic tools to help determine if your controller is functioning as designed. Base Station software exercises every supported feature of every supported device.  It is the ultimate reference tool for learning, diagnosing, and testing NCD devices.

User Interface

You may click one time on any item in the list to see a graphical user interface that was created as the controller was developed.  Each command set represents a module that is installed in the firmware of your device.

Device Identification

A window will open labeled "Device Identification Data".  This window contains important "Read-Only" information about your device.  Note the "Documentation Related to this Controller" field.  This is a compilation of all articles relevant to your device.  Click on an item in the list to view.  You will need an Internet connection to access this information. All devices released in 2012 and later support Device Identification.

Device Command Sets

Base Station software asks the controller which command sets are supported.  The supported command sets are listed when you run the Base Station software application.  Some controllers may show more command sets while other controllers may show fewer command sets.  The Base Station program will decide which command sets apply to your particular controller.  ProXR users can turn relays on or off and perform any function from the entire ProXR Command Set!

Control All ProXR Functions

Control relays, read status of relays, read inputs all from the ProXR boards and perform all functions of the baord. Base Station is a point-and-click software that will also show you the command that is being sent to the board, making Base Station a great tool for programmers!

Useful Features

There are some useful features to look for when using Base Station Software to control, test, or configure your device:

• Links to Quick Start Guides and Documentation
• Discovers Newtork devices and displays IP Address for easy connection
• Control Command Set Window (circled in red), ProXR users can view commands sent to the board

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Relay Activator

Relay Activator and Analog Inputs

The Base Station Relay Activator control panel allows analog inputs to directly control relays!  Simply connect the analog inputs to buttons or switches and trigger basic relay on or off functions to take manual control of the on-board relays.  The Relay Activator control panel allows you to define 8 functions for each of the 8 inputs.  Functions include turning relays on or off, toggling the state of relays, momentarily flash a relay, momentarily toggle the flashing function of a relay, turn all relays on, turn all relays off, and push notification events.  When push notification events are configured, the controller generates a packet of data every time the inputs change state.

Relay Activator for Manual Control

Relay Activator is great for applications where computer control is used but manual control is necessary at times.  Buttons or switches can be used to take manual control of any of the relays.  You will have the ability to turn a relay on with a computer and turn the relay off with the manual switch! Relay Activator is only available in all ProXR Lite versions and ProXR boards with part numbers begining with ZAD. Download the Relay Activator Quick Start Guide here: in the AD8 Relay Activator Quick Start Guide.

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Reactor Users

Reactor Events Settings

All All Reactor configurations are made through Base Station. Base Station allows users to define the activation of a relay or an event based on the voltage readings of the analog inputs. An input can trigger a relay directly or an input can trigger an event, such as a timer. If an input triggers a relay, the relay may turn on. If an input triggers a timer event, a timer may be started, but a relay may or may not be turned on based on how you have configured the controller (the time delay may be before the relay triggers). The Reactor graphical user interface is only provided when Base Station is communicating with a Reactor board, other functions may not be available with this type of board.

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TaraList Users

TaraList Setup

Base Station Software is used to configure and upload the time schedules to the Time Activared Board. TaraList users will be shown the configuration page for setting up the time schedule and uploading the schedule to the board. ProXR usere will not be offered this page and not see it.

Software Options

Not a programmer and think these boards look great, not to worry we have software to help get you connected and even control the relays with a button on your desktop or by a time schedule!

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Data Sheets & Quick Start Guides

Below are the Data Sheets Quick Start Guides for this board.  These are the guides that will help you communicate and configure this board.