bistable relay
- noun
- /ˈbɪˌsteɪbəl rɪˈleɪ/
- Specialized
- The circuit uses a bistable relay to remember its last state even when the power is cut.
Examples
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Technicians prefer bistable relays in alarm systems due to their reliability and low energy usage.
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A bistable relay is ideal for applications where power consumption must be minimized.
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The bistable relay is essential for energy-efficient circuits.
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Can you explain how a bistable relay works?
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A bistable relay can hold its state even when power is lost, making it suitable for various electronic devices.
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In automated lighting systems, a bistable relay switches the lights on and off while conserving energy.
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The engineer designed a circuit that features a bistable relay to efficiently control the device's operation.
Synonyms
1
8.2
A small electric switch that changes when you press a button and stays that way until pressed again
1
8.2
An electrical switch that stays in its last on or off position without power
A device that stays on or off after being switched, even when control power is removed
An electrical switch that stays in the same position when power is removed
A device that can stay in two stable states and hold one piece of information
Surface Forms
Morphology
The phrase is a straightforward adjective+noun composition: 'bistable' (capable of two stable configurations) modifies 'relay' (a switch), so a learner who knows both parts can infer it is a relay that has two stable states. Although the term is technical, the morphological cues (bi- + stable) and the standard compound noun pattern make the overall meaning predictable for a learner familiar with the constituents.
Etymology
The noun bistable relay comes from bi- meaning 'two' and stable meaning 'stays', and it names a special relay that stays in one of two positions without power. A short electric pulse flips it to the other position, so it 'remembers' its last state even when the power is off.