[Elecraft] Can a 1N4007 Be an Effective Relay Snubber?

[Bill Coleman]

On Apr 8, 2009, at 2:22 PM, Jack Smith wrote:

> The "Cliff's Notes" version is that the turn-on (note I said  turn-on,
> not turn-off) time of a 1N4007 diode is sufficiently fast to be a very
> effective relay snubber.


Interesting! It's always true that experiment trumps theory.

Curious, though, that you would promote using a 1N4007 as a snubber  
for a 12 volt relay. It would make more sense to use a 1N4001, which  
has virtually identical characteristics as the 1N4007, except for the  
reverse breakdown voltage. The 1N4001, with a reverse breakdown of 50  
volts, it will withstand the relay energizing voltage of 12 volts.

The 1N4001 can be purchased for about a penny each in bulk. The 1N4007  
is about four times more expensive. That's a three cent difference.  
And, you know, hams are cheap. <grin>


Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASEL        Mail: aa4lr at arrl.net
Web: http://boringhamradiopart.blogspot.com
Quote: "Not within a thousand years will man ever fly!"
             -- Wilbur Wright, 1901