What Is an Electronic Timer?
An electronic timer, also known as a program timer, is a device capable of automatically turning on and off an electrical appliance at specific times. Electronic timers have been in use for quite some time.
In general, electronic timers are used to schedule the activation and deactivation of electrical devices at consistent times each day.
For instance, pattern A might control the ON/OFF schedule for a Monday, while pattern B handles Tuesday, and so on with patterns C, D, E, and others, allowing users to select a program for each day of the week. Various types of electronic timers are available to suit these needs.
Uses of Electronic Timers
Electronic timers find applications in lighting fixtures and household appliances.
For example, a lighting fixture can be programmed to turn on and off at specific times each day, or a humidifier can be scheduled to activate and deactivate, such as at bedtime.
Beyond these basic functions, modern electronic timers come equipped with various additional features. Some incorporate brightness sensors to activate devices when the surroundings are well-lit and deactivate them in darkness, ideal for daytime use.
There are also waterproof models designed for outdoor use and timers that display the power consumption of connected devices.
Electronic timers are available in a wide price range, from affordable models starting at around 1,000 yen to more advanced models exceeding 10,000 yen.
Principles of Electronic Timers
Electronic timers are equipped with an AC outlet on the power supply side that accepts 100 VAC commercial power and an AC outlet on the power take-off side for the electrical device to be controlled.
When the specified ON time is reached, the power supply side and power take-off side are connected, allowing power to flow to the connected device.
The mechanism is straightforward: when the designated ON time arrives, the electronic timer connects the power supply and power take-off sides, supplying power to the connected device.
The allowable power capacity varies depending on the type of electronic timer. It is essential to check the timer’s permissible capacity and ensure that the connected device’s power requirements are within the allowable limit before use.
Simple electronic timers, designed to turn on and off at specific times each day, often rely on basic logic circuits. In contrast, highly functional electronic timers with multiple programs, operational buttons, and LCD displays are frequently designed using single-chip microcomputers.