Darren Gibbs wrote: > I have a surplus 50V 5A linear power supply (built like tank, > delightful 60Hz hum generator). OK, but once again, how much current does the solenoid draw? > There is a snubber diode connecting the emitter back to the > collector. That's not a snubber. It must be accross the relay coil. From emitter to collector isn't doing an good. This is why we want to see the whole schematic, not just the parts you think are important and not your interpretation of it. > Which as I look at it is not literally in parallel with > the solenoid, Right. > but the book I got this from claims that this is > equivalent. That's nonsense. Think about it. How is a diode from the bottom of the relay to ground going to catch the solenoid current when the transistor turns off? ****************************************************************** Embed Inc, Littleton Massachusetts, (978) 742-9014. #1 PIC consultant in 2004 program year. http://www.embedinc.com/products -- http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive View/change your membership options at http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist