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What type of devices are relays categorized as?

  1. Sensor

  2. Actuator

  3. Control

  4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Actuator

Relays are categorized as actuators because they are designed to control the opening and closing of electrical circuits, effectively acting as a switch. An actuator is any device that converts a control signal into mechanical motion or electrical output. In this case, when a relay receives a signal, it moves a mechanical component to complete or break an electrical circuit, allowing or stopping the flow of electricity. This action is integral to many IoT applications where automated control of systems and devices is necessary, such as in smart home technologies, industrial automation, and remote monitoring systems. Understanding this classification helps clarify how relays fit into the broader landscape of IoT devices, as they enable the implementation of automated control systems by directly manipulating physical electrical connections.