I'm trying to use a 16f628 to trigger a photo flash in response to a
loud sound.
Using a microcontroller alows me to vary the response time as needed.

I've gotten the input side to work using a small electret mike and the
comparator pins.  I tried using a 5v relay rated at 1 amp for 120V. I
have a diode 'bacwards' across the coil.  It worked for a while but
eventually the switched side appears to have fried.  I'm not sure of the
voltage and current of the flash but it appears to be pretty substantial.

Is there a good way to protect the relay?  Would a solid state switch be
better and if so what?

Thanks.

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