Trigger 12v Solenoid Valve from a PIC

[koossa]

I'm playing with PICs for a long time, but still a beginner.

I want to build a hobby project that must switch a 12v Solenoid Valve on and off from a PIC running on a single battery.
How would I do this without complicating the circuit?

[HenrikOlsson]

Hi,
The easiest way is to use a NPN transistor or a N-channel MOSFET and switch the lowside of the solenoid. Ie +12V -> Solenoid -> Switch -> GND.
Drive the transistor with an output of the PIC. Don't forget to put a diode in reverse across the solenoid to clamp the inductive kickback when it's turned off.

Google low side transistor switch and you should find plenty of information.

/Henrik.

[koossa]

Thank you Henrik!!!
Will the PIC then also be able to run on the 12V?

[HenrikOlsson]

No, not directly on 12V it won't.
You'll need a voltage regulator to bring down the battery voltage to a range that the PIC can operate on, what that range is is stated in the datasheet but usually 2.5V to 5V.

/Henrik.

[koossa]

will a 7805 do?

[andywpg]

will a 7805 do?

It certainly will, as long as your PIC is designed for 5V

[koossa]

Thank you very much for your help!!!