Switch For Wall Outlet

[jmerchant]

I'm trying to make a device that switches something plugged into a wall outlet on and off, depending on the output of a pin. I looked at analog switches and MOSFETs and it is a bit confusing. The pin is a digital output from a microcontroller and I don't know what exactly the voltage on the high value is (I asked the company a few hours ago, still waiting for a response) but I think it might be 5V.
a)Can analog switches control AC?
b)Where can I buy a switch that can take a small voltage like 5V and consider it as on or off for the 110V Northern American plug/outlet, so that when I toggle on or off that output pin, the appliance on those wires will be toggled as well?

 

[TurboXS]

I think the safest way for you to go is to look at relays and contactors. A visit to Radio Shack should help you. You will probably need to buffer the signal to the relay coil.

Special care must be taken when controlling mains voltages, please be careful.

regards
Pete
(TurboXS)

 

[IRstuff]

I suggest that you buy a commercial appliance control system such as the X-10 product or something similar. Radio Shack also offers something similar to that.

Your lack of knowledge can get you or someone else electrocuted or worse.

TTFN

 

[OperaHouse]

Go on eBay and search for OPTO 22. You can often get a mounting board and a couple solid sate plug in relays for $10. These have an isolated input through an opto isolator that will work on 5V and just a few ma. Small units will control a couple amps. There are bigger block single units that will control 10A and more.

 

[ScottyUK]

Have a poke around Crydom's site.

http://www.crydom.com

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