I have a solenoid with unknown specifications. I have contacted the manufacturer, but they are reluctant when it comes to sharing information about this product.
The problem
I need to trigger a solenoid from my Raspberry Pi. I want to do this by providing power from a DC power supply that came with the original product (The product is not the solenoid). I am using a Raspberry Pi as the control unit and a relay (http://www.songle.com/en/pdf/20084141716341001.pdf).
We also think that our solenoid is similar to this one: http://www.testco-inc.com/ledex-solenoids/B22-254-M-36
What we know
Before starting this project I have measured the Voltage and Current from the original control unit that shipped with the product. When we want to trigger the solenoid, the existing control unit sends 0,355 Amps at 22,1 Volts through the circuit.
I did make my own power cable using the DC power adapter and that provides 0,375 Amps at 24,1 Volts.
But the solenoid does not trigger
Does anyone have any ideas that I might try out?
Other questions
Could the voltage provided be too high? Does a solenoid requires more current to trigger, and then less to "keep holding?