This technical note describes a new and simple electronic circuit for driving solenoid valves. The circuit is based on a single integrated circuit DRV103, which is able to drive resistive or inductive loads up to 1.5 A. Switching of 12-V loads can be controlled by TTLlevel signals in two distinct steps. Initially, 12 V is applied during 110 ms, followed by 4.2 V RMS until the end of the activation TTL pulse. This mode of operation is particularly suitable to drive solenoids, because it requires a higher voltage to start and a lower maintenance voltage. By using this circuit, power consumption and heating are reduced and the solenoid lifetime is enhanced. Moreover, this circuit is specially appropriated to build computercontrolled solenoid valves systems.
solenoid valve; flow injection analysis; instrumentation
