Pi 3 and SainSmart 8 channel SSR - Not able to turn on all 8 relays
- Environment: Raspberry Pi 3
- OS: Raspian
- Language: Python3 and Java/Pi4J
- Control: SainSmart 8 channel Solid State Relay
- Issue: Unable to turn on all 8 relays at the same time
Using a Pi 3 installed with raspian that I picked up from a convention, and instructions from Instructables and YouTube, I intended to make a programmable 8 channel Christmas Light outlet box.
After doing a simple python test, I was able to switch all 8 of the relays on and off one at a time in succession. Thinking that was sufficient, I mounted the board and outlets.
However, I discover now that when I try to turn on more than 3 / 4 lights at a time, the others turn off. I dissected a micro USB cable with 5v / .7A phone charger to deliver separate power to the SainSmart, but it appears not to work.
I assume that either the pi is not delivering enough power to each pin to turn on all the relays or that not enough power is being delivered through the micro USB cable to the SainSmart.
Not being familiar with electronic schematics, does anyone have an idea of the possible culprit?