IDEC Expands Timer Relay Product Line With Slim Multifunctional Options

IDEC has expanded its GT8A slim electronic timer relay series with two new models designed for industrial control applications where panel space and flexible timing control are important. The relays use a narrow 17.5 mm housing and support 10 timing functions, multiple timing ranges, and universal 12 V to 240 V AC/DC input power.

Designed for applications such as machinery, HVAC systems, pump stations, material handling equipment, and building automation, the GT8A series provides a compact, hard-wired timing solution for both new installations and retrofit projects where reducing panel footprint and simplifying wiring are priorities.

IDEC has added the GT8A-2ADF and GT8A-1ADF slim timer relays to its timer relay offerings. Image used courtesy of IDEC

Compact Design for Industrial Control Panels

IDEC has designed the GT8A slim timer relay series to reduce control panel space while also still supporting multiple timing functions within a single relay. At 17.5 mm wide, these GT8A relays use a smaller footprint than many traditional timer relay combinations, which can help in retrofit projects or densely packed control cabinets where available panel space is limited.

The relays also mount directly onto DIN rail without requiring a separate socket, simplifying installation, wiring, and replacement. Depending on the application, the series is available in both SPDT and DPDT versions, with contacts rated for up to 250 V AC or 24 V DC at 16 A resistive load.

Dimensional drawing of the GT8A timer. Image used courtesy of IDEC

Multiple Timing Functions and Flexible Configuration

The GT8A supports 10 timing functions, including on-delay, off-delay, interval timing, cyclical timing, pulse timing, and flicker modes. Timing ranges can be configured from 0.1 seconds up to 10 days, along with permanently on and permanently off settings. Having multiple timing modes built into a single relay allows the same device to be used across different machine and process control applications without requiring several dedicated timer models.

Front selector switch layout for the GT8A timer relay. Image used courtesy of IDEC

Configuration is handled using three rotary selector switches located on the front of the relay. The recessed switch design helps prevent accidental setting changes during operation while still allowing quick manual adjustments without software tools or programming. The relays also support a universal 12 V to 240 V AC/DC input range, which helps reduce the number of separate relay versions needed for different control voltages and simplifies spare parts inventory across a facility.

Built for Long-Term Operation

IDEC rates the GT8A relays for a mechanical life of at least 30 million operations and an electrical life of at least 50,000 operations at full current load. The relays feature an IP20 finger-safe protection rating and support global standards including EN 61812-1, CE, UKCA, RoHS, EAC, and UL/c-UL. Although PLCs and programmable control systems are widely used in industrial automation, hard-wired timer relays are still commonly used for straightforward timing functions where simple setup, reliability, and independent operation are priorities.