The Key Fob Interface

Easy Key Fob Control

If your application requires you to control a relay from a wireless remote control, then our Key Fob Relay boards will offer the most powerful solution available on the market today.  Not to be confused with single function low-cost solutions, our Key Fob Relay boards are years ahead!  Configure your Key Fob Buttons to control relays in just about any way you can think of! 

Key Fob Functions

A button push on the key fob can be set for a simple on/off function and so much more!  Most users use the key fob as a toggle or momentary setting.  The toggle command is a push-on push-off command push a button and the relay will remain energized until the button is pushed again to turn it off.  A push and release command can be set for a momentary command, when the button is pushed the relay energizes and when you release the button the relay turns off.  Either of these commands will be set before your board ships.  More complicated commands can be configured as well!  Relay groupings if you want one button to control more than one relay.  Time delays can be set where one button push can control the relay for a prediturmined time and the relay will turn off automatically!

Easy Configuration

This board is equipped with a KFX Module.  The KFX communications module adds key fob capabilities to the board.  Configuring the board is done using Base Station Sofware, a free download.  Point and click configuration using a numerical command set get's the action your looking for for each button push.  We'll even do the setup for you, choose toggle or momentary at checkout above!

Common Commands

Here's a brief list of some of the more common commands used when a button is pushed on the key fob.

• Toggle and Momentary Commands
• Turn Off All Relays Then Turn On a Specific Relay
• Relay Timers: Relay Energized for a Specific Time
• Relay Pulse Commands
• Relay Grouping: Controlling Multiple Relays Together
• Relay Flashing Commands

Key Fob Range

The rated range of the MS series Key Fobs is 750 feet (228 meters). The MS 8-Button Key Fob with an external antenna is rated at 1,000 feet (304 meters).  Key Fob range can depend on many factors.  The maximum ratings are achieved in an outdoor environment with clear line-of-sight and minimal radio interference (in the country). 

Up to 40 Key Fobs

With a single KFX receiver module, users may associate up to 40 key fobs, including 1, 2, 4 and 8-Buttons (available at checkout).  Every Key Fob paired with a KFX Receiver will perform the exact same function as another Key Fob paired with the same KFX Receiver.  It is not possible for each remote to be separately identified and generate different data for.  Put simply, every remote does exactly the same thing when paired with the same KFX Receiver.

ZigMo Configuration Kit

The KFX Receiver Module is configured using Base Station Software (a free download), and must be plugged into the ZIGMO Configuration Board only during configuration.  Only one ZIGMO is needed regardless of the number of KFX Receivers you intend to use.  The ZIGMO acts as an interface between your computer and the KFX Receiver, allowing you to define the Baud Rate, and Data Bytes that are transmitted for each Key Fob button Press.  The ZIGMO is included with the KFX Integration Kit and available at checkout.  Key Fob Configuration

Who’s Qualified to Use the Key Fob Series?

Some computer skills required.  The Key Fob Relays do not require programming, simply configure the module with the included Base Station Software.  While programming is not required and simple functions can be done rather easily with basic computer skills, complex events can be configured which will require some understanding and patience.

Base Station Key Fob Configuration

Key Fob Configuration

The KFX Receiver Module is configured using Base Station Software (a free download), and must be plugged into the ZIGMO Configuration Board only during configuration.  Only one ZIGMO is needed regardless of the number of KFX Receivers you intend to use.  The ZIGMO acts as an interface between your computer and the KFX Receiver, allowing you to define the Baud Rate, and Data Bytes that are transmitted for each Key Fob button Press.  The ZIGMO is included with the KFX Integration Kit and available at checkout.

Free Setup Software

The board will ship with your choice of either a momentary or toggle command at no charge.  If you wish to send different commands to the board they will need to be programmed into the KFX Module.  This is done by connecting the Key Fob Configuration Kit to your computer and using Base Station Software (a free download).  Once you have set the commands, the module will be removed from the configuration Kit and installed into the board.  The KFX Module will now send your commands to the board when the key fob button is pressed.

Module Setup

The Configuration Kit acts as an interface between your computer and the KFX Receiver, allowing you to define the commands that are transmitted for each key fob button press and release.  The KFX Receiver Module is configured using Base Station Software, and will be plugged into the Key Fob Configuration Kit only during configuration.  Only one Configuration Kit is needed regardless of the number of KFX Receivers you intend to use.

Configuring the Buttons

When configuring the button pushes you are really configuring the KFX module with the commands that will be sent to the board.  When the module sees a button push it sends the command it has stored.  You will configure what command is sent using Base Station Software a free download.  It can be a simple toggle command or complex commands including delays.  The KFX Receiver can be configured for button press and button release events. 

Common Commands

Here's a brief list of some of the more common commands used when a button is pushed on the key fob.

• Toggle and Momentary Commands
• Turn Off All Relays Then Turn On a Specific Relay
• Relay Timers: Relay Energized for a Specific Time
• Relay Pulse Commands
• Relay Grouping: Controlling Multiple Relays Together
• Relay Flashing Commands

KFX Module

This board is equipped with a KFX Module.  The KFX communications module adds key fob capabilities to the board.  The KFX module is powered from the board.  The board itself will require 12 volts of power and can be hard wired or you can purchase a "wall wart" type Power Supply at checkout.

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Data Sheets & Quick Start Guides

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Base Station Software

Base Station will assist you in learning how this device functions and is the ultimate reference tool for setting up, testing and controlling this device.  Base Station software supports every feature of this device - no other controller manufacturer even comes close to offering this type of software.  Base Station works by communicating with your controller to identify the model and provides the appropriate graphical user interface for setting up and testing the identified device.  To help you get started and learn this controller Quick Start Guides are available for just about every feature.  As you discover a feature in Base Station a link is provided where you can easily download the Quick Start Guide.

ProXR Relay

We've looked at the interface and the programming now let's take a look at the board design itself.  The ProXR series controllers are manufactured by hand for a highly accurate and reliable design.  Fully tested before they leave the production facility each ProXR controller is ready to stand up to rigorous demands from heat, cold or vibration.  The best test of all is the numerous boards in the field from customers all over the world in all sorts of conditions.  Take it from us, these controllers will hold up!

Not Expandable

This is a ProXR Board that does have an expansion port but because of this being used with a key fob the board should not be expanded.  There are commands to control banks of relays or all on/off functions.  If your application requires this and not individual relay control the board could be expanded.  Key Fobs are only available with a maximum of 8 buttons.

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.  For each button on the key fob press and release commands can be assigned.  Simple toggle commands to more complex timing functions can be configured for each key fob button press.  For some of the most popular commands look for the KFX Quick Start Guide in the Data Sheets tab above.  For the full ProXR Command set look for the ProXR Quick Start Guide in the same Data Sheets Tab.

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.

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

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. 

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.

Key Fob DPDT 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
• Easy screw terminal connections
• DPDT Relays with 2 connections per relay

ProXR Features
• Works with the full ProXR Enhanced Command Set
• Highly reliable relay with industry leading command set

Relay Logic

Relay Wiring Samples

This page demonstrates several simple ways to wire a relay or multiple relays for various applications. We use the example of switching a light but the light can be swapped for a gate control, security system, dry contact output and other devices. These examples show different ways to wire to a relay or multiple relays to produce a desired effect.
Get a printout of this page

SPDT Wiring

SPDT Single Pole Double Throw Relays have three connections - Common, Normally Open, and Normally Closed. When the relay is off, the common is connected to the normally closed connection of the relay. When the relay coil is energized, the Common swings to the Normally Open Connection of the Relay. You can wire the device you are switching to either the Normally Open or the Normally Closed position and we have examples below.

SPST Wiring

SPST Single Pole Single Throw Relays have two connections - Common and Normally Open. The Common (COM) is the moving part of the relay that comes in contact with the Normally Open (NO) when the coil to the relay is energized. The only SPST relay we sell on this site is the 30-Amp relays, The wiring examples below can be used with the 30-Amp relays as long as the example doesn't use the Normally Closed position.

DPDT Wiring

A single DPDT Double Pole Double Throw 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 devices 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. Wiring using these examples can be the same as any SPDT relay.

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Relay Logic Examples

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Example 1 - Simple Off/On

This example demonstrates how a relay can be used to activate a light bulb. When the relay turns on, the light comes on. Only one power wire is switched with this example using the COM (common) and NO (normally open) connections of a relay. This is the simplest of the examples, switching a light in this example or any device on when the relay is energized.

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Example 2 - Simple On/Off

This example demonstrates how a relay can be used to turn a light bulb OFF.  When the relay is energized the light turns off, when the relay is off the light will be ON.  Only one power wire is switched in this sample using the COM (common) and NC (normally closed) connections of a relay. Not commonly used but great for applications where the device is on most of the time so the relay doesn't have to be energized to to keep the device on. Power cycling a device can be a typical use for this wiring, when the relay turns on the device is powered off.

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Example 3 - 2 Relays to Activate

This example demonstrates how two energized relays are required to activate a light bulb. This is the same as a Logic and function because Relay 1 AND Relay 2 must be on to activate the light. Only one power wire is switched in this example using two relays to turn on the light. This example would be used if you want two parameters to be active before the light will switch on. If you have sensors or need two parameters to be in the correct state before the light turns on. A quick example would be a light sensor will need to show it's dark and a motion sensor showing someone in the room before the light will turn on.

MirC/MirX Users: Two contact closure inputs in the sender board required to control a device. Use this wiring when you require two outputs to close before you switch the relay.

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Example 4 - 3 Relays to Activate

This example demonstrates how three energized relays are required to activate a light bulb. Just like example 3, Logic and function play a roll because Relay 1 AND Relay 2 AND Relay 3 MUST be energized to activate the light. Only one power wire is switched in this example using three relays to turn on the light. Simple wiring from the NO of Relay 1 to the COM of Relay 2 to the NO of Relay 2 to the COM of Relay 3 will require that all three relays would need to be energized to turn on the light. This can be expanded to include as many relays as needed as long as you wire NO of the first relay to COM of the next relay.

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Example 5 - Override Function

This example demonstrates the and/or function. The light bulb will be activated if Relay 1 and Relay 2 are energized OR if Relay 3 is energized. This example is great for applications that may require a logical condition of 2 relays plus an override feature. For instance, if Relay 1 is a night/day sensor, Relay 2 is a moisture sensor. If its dark and the soil is dry, Relays 1 and 2 can activate a pump. If you want to override these conditions with local physical switch using Relay Activator function (see the AD8 Command Set Tab) Relay 3 would override Relays 1 & 2.

MirC/MirX Users: Add a manual button or switch to control the third relay to manually control the light if you have sensors that control the other relays.

Reactor Users: Add a manual button or switch to control the third relay to manually control the light if you have sensors that control the other relays.

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Example 6 - Either Relay Activates

This example demonstrates how either relay can be used to activate a light. Only one power wire is switched in this example using either of two relays to turn on the light. In this sample, only one activated relay is required to activate the light. If both relays are activated, the light will be on. Great for if you have a timer for one of the relays but want to turn the light on when the timer is scheduled off or have two sensors connected and want either of them to control a device.

MirC/MirX Users: Two contact closure inputs in the sender board and either of the inputs can control one light or device.

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Example 7 - 3-Way Switch

This example demonstrates how to create a 3-way light switch to activate a light. A 3-way light switch is where two light switches can be used to activate a single light. This sample is exactly the same as a 3-way light switch, the only difference being each physical switch is replaced by a relay. Operationally, it works the same way. Only one power wire is switched in this example using both relays to turn on the light. Each relay activation will cause the light to toggle. Switching two relays at one time is like flipping 2 switches at once....with the same result. This sample is particularly useful since you can replace one relay (as shown in the diagram) with a physical light switch. This will allow a computer to control a light as well as manual operation of a light. Properly used, this can be one of the most valuable diagrams we offer on this page.

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Example 8 - Motor Control

This example demonstrates how to control the direction of a DC motor using 2 relays. Braking is accomplished by connecting both motor terminals to a common power connection (Faraday's Law). The capacitors shown may not be required for small motors, but if you experience problems with relays shutting themselves off, the induction suppression capacitor will be required. The .1uF capacitor helps suppress electronic noise if the battery were to be used by sensitive devices (such as radios/amplifiers).

• Relay 1 Off Relay 2 Off = Motor Brake to +
• Relay 1 On Relay 2 Off = Motor Forward
• Relay 1 Off Relay 2 On = Motor Backward
• Relay 1 On Relay 2 On = Motor Brake to -
• Induction Capacitor Should Be located by relay
• Filter Capacitor Should be Located Near Motor
• Additional Capacitors May be Desirable for Some Motors

Inductive loads typically require 2-3 times the runtime voltage or amperage when power is first applied to the device. For instance, a motor rate at 5 Amps, 125 VAC will often require 10-15 amps just to get the shaft of the motor in motion. Once in motion, the the motor may consume no more than 5 amps. When driving these types of loads, choose a relay that exceeds the initial requirement of the motor. In this case, a 20-30 Amp relay should be used for best relay life.

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.