Running a Double Ended Solenoid off of one Spike

[ShaneKent253]

Hello from Team 253,

We are wondering if we can connect a double ended solenoid to one spike. We have seen it done with two diodes like this:

http://team358.org/files/pneumatic/DoubleSolenoidDiodesSpikeWiring.jpg

We have also seen two separate solenoids wired to one spike like this and we are wondering if we can do the same exact thing but with a double ended solenoid.

http://team358.org/files/pneumatic/DoubleSolenoidSpikeWiring.jpg

Thanks for the help!!

Shane

[EricH]

http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=125674

[ShaneKent253]

http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=125674

Haha, I see that I already posted a similar question today, I guess the main question is: Is a double ended solenoid considered two separate solenoids? If so then I see that it is legal.

Thanks,

Shane

[FrankJ]

It looks like either method would work. Method 2 is shown in the spike user guide (http://content.vexrobotics.com/docs/spike-blue-guide-sep05.pdf) which is referenced on the kit parts of page (http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/frc/control-system). I would go with that method since it has First issued documentation.

Obviously it is a 12 V solenoid. 24 V ones won't work with a spike. Don't fire the A&B signals at the same time or you will confuse the valve.