A 12V linear actuator uses DC power to extend and retract a rod in a straight line. For many actuator models, reversing the polarity of the two motor wires changes the direction of travel. That is why many basic 12V actuator wiring diagrams show a power source, a switch or control box, and two actuator leads. The correct wiring method depends on how you want to control the actuator. A simple rocker switch is often enough for manual extend/retract control, while a control box is better when you need a remote, preset positions, synchronized motion, or easier wiring. Relays or microcontrollers can be used for custom automation, but they require more electrical planning. Before wiring any actuator, disconnect power, confirm the actuator voltage, check current ratings, and use only compatible switches, relays, control boxes, and power supplies.
Before You Wire a 12V Linear Actuator
Start by confirming these details:
- Actuator input voltage (check stickers/labels)
- Full-load current draw (check stickers/labels)
- Number of actuator wires
- Whether the actuator has positional feedback wires
- Whether the actuator has internal limit switches (verify datasheets)
- Switch or controller current rating
- Power supply output voltage and current
- Fuse or circuit protection requirements
- Wire length and wire gauge
- Indoor or outdoor installation environment
Many standard 12V linear actuators use two main motor wires for their brushed DC motor. Applying 12 VDC one way extends the actuator. Reversing polarity retracts it. However, some actuator models include additional wires for Hall effect feedback, potentiometer feedback, limit-switch signals, or other control features. Those extra wires should not be treated as motor power wires.
How 12V Linear Actuator Wiring Works
A basic electric actuator wiring diagram usually includes:
- 12 VDC power source
- Control system device
- Actuator motor leads
- Optional fuse or circuit protection
- Optional feedback or signal wiring
The power source may be a 12V battery or an AC-to-DC power adapter. For example, our PS-29-12-67 is a CE and RoHS-certified 100-240 VAC to 12 VDC power supply rated for 29A and can be used with rocker switches or other 12V control devices that require less than 29A. The IP67 ingress protection rating also keeps the power supply protected against dust and water when exposed to harsh environments.
Choose the Right Wiring Method
| Control Method | Best For | Main Parts Needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rocker switch | Simple manual extend/retract control | 12V power source, switch, actuator | Check switch current rating. |
| Pre-wired rocker switch | Beginner-friendly wiring | Power source, pre-wired switch, actuator | Reduces wiring complexity. |
| Control box | Remote control, cleaner setup, multiple actuator options | Control box, remote, power supply, actuator | Best for many plug-and-play systems. |
| Relay wiring | Custom logic, high current draws, or microcontroller projects | Relays, controller, actuator, power supply | Requires correct relay rating and wiring. |
| Microcontroller | Automated motion logic | Arduino-style controller, motor driver or relays, power source, actuator | Advanced; keep actuator power separate from logic power. |
| Feedback control system | Position control or synchronization | Feedback actuator, compatible control box, power source | Do not wire feedback actuators like simple two-wire models. |
Wiring a 12V Linear Actuator to a Rocker Switch
A rocker switch is one of the simplest ways to control a 12V actuator. A reversing rocker switch changes the polarity going to the actuator, allowing it to extend in one direction and retract in the other.
Basic wiring path:
- Power supply positive and negative connect to the rocker switch input terminals.
- The actuator motor wires connect to the switch output terminals.
- Pressing one side of the switch sends polarity one way.
- Pressing the other side reverses polarity.
- Releasing a momentary switch or manually positioning a non-momentary switch into neutral will return it to the off position.
Our RC-01/RC-03 rocker switch is available in momentary and non-momentary versions, with a 10A current-draw rating. The momentary version is spring-loaded and returns to off when released. The non-momentary version continues operation until switched back or until the actuator reaches its limit.
For users who want easier wiring, the RC-12 rocker switch includes attached wires, uses DPDT circuitry, and is designed for simple momentary actuator control up to 20A. For waterproof variants with IP68 ingress protection, we offer the RC-10/RC-11 Rocker Switch rated for up to 20A each.
Use a rocker switch only when:
- The actuator current is within the switch rating.
- The actuator does not require synchronized control.
- You do not need feedback-based positioning.
- The wiring environment is suitable for the switch.
Wiring a Linear Actuator to a Control Box
AÂ control box is often the better option when you want remote control, cleaner wiring, preset behavior, or support for multiple actuators.
Basic wiring path:
- Power supply connects to the control box.
- Actuator connects to the control box output.
- Remote, wired switch, or receiver connects to the control box.
- The control box manages actuator direction and control logic.
Progressive Automations’ control systems collection includes control boxes, remotes, rocker switches, joysticks, relays, and advanced controllers for actuator projects.
A control box is recommended when:
- You need wireless control.
- You want multiple actuator control.
- You need synchronized movement.
- You are using feedback actuators.
- You want a cleaner plug-and-play wiring setup.
- You need a control system matched to a Progressive Automations actuator.
Wiring a Linear Actuator With Relays or a Microcontroller
Relays are used when a low-power signal needs to control a higher-current actuator circuit. A microcontroller such as an Arduino can send the control signal, while the relay or motor driver handles actuator current.
Basic wiring path:
- Microcontroller sends signal to relay or motor driver.
- Relay or motor driver switches actuator power.
- 12V power supply powers the actuator circuit.
- Logic power and actuator power are handled correctly.
- Diodes, fuses, and protection components are added when required by the design.
Use relay or microcontroller wiring when:
- You need sensors or automation logic.
- You want timed movement.
- You need limit-switch logic outside the actuator.
- You are integrating the actuator into a larger control system.
This is an advanced wiring method. If current rating, relay type, flyback protection, common ground, or motor-driver selection is unclear, use a compatible Progressive Automations control box or consult an electrical technician.
Power Supply, Fuse, and Current Checks
A wiring diagram is only safe and useful if the components are rated for the actuator.
Before powering the system:
- Match power supply voltage to actuator voltage.
- Make sure the power supply current rating is higher than or equal to the actuator’s expected current draw.
- Check switch, relay, and controller current ratings.
- Use appropriately sized wire for current and cable length.
- Add a fuse or circuit protection where appropriate.
- Keep wiring away from pinch points and moving parts.
- Use outdoor-rated components for outdoor or wet environments.
- Disconnect power before making wiring changes.
If an actuator stalls, binds, or is overloaded, current draw can increase. This is why mechanical installation and electrical sizing should be checked together.
Troubleshooting Common Wiring Problems
| Problem | Possible Cause | What to Check |
|---|---|---|
| Actuator does not move | No power, wrong wiring, undersized supply, blown fuse | Check voltage at power supply and actuator leads. |
| Actuator moves one direction only | Controller wiring issue or failed contact | Check controller terminals and output polarity. |
| Actuator moves opposite direction | Polarity reversed | Swap actuator motor leads at the output. |
| Actuator stops early | Internal limit switch reached, low current, load too high | Check stroke, load, current, and mechanical binding. |
| Switch gets hot | Current exceeds switch rating | Use a properly rated switch, relay, or control box. |
| Power supply shuts down | Current draw too high | Check actuator load and use a supply with the suitable current rating. |
| Feedback actuator does not work correctly | Feedback wires miswired or wrong controller | Use the compatible control box or wiring diagram for that actuator model. |
| Multiple actuators move unevenly | No synchronization or mismatched loads | Use feedback actuators and a compatible synchronized control box. |
In Summary
Wiring a 12V linear actuator starts with understanding polarity reversal. For many two-wire actuators, applying 12 VDC one way extends the actuator, and reversing polarity retracts it. A rocker switch can handle simple manual control, while a control box is often the best option for remotes, multiple actuators, synchronization, and cleaner wiring.
Before wiring, confirm the actuator voltage, current draw, switch rating, controller compatibility, power supply rating, fuse needs, and whether the actuator includes feedback wires. When in doubt, use a Progressive Automations control system matched to your actuator model or contact the support team before powering the circuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you wire a 12V linear actuator?
Most basic two-wire 12V actuators connect to a 12V power source through a reversing switch or control box. Reversing polarity changes the actuator direction. Always confirm the wiring diagram for the specific actuator model.
How do you reverse polarity on a linear actuator?
A DPDT rocker switch, relay setup, or control box can reverse polarity by swapping the positive and negative connections sent to the actuator motor leads.
Can I wire a linear actuator directly to a battery?
For basic testing, a compatible 12V actuator can often be powered by a 12V battery, but a finished system should include suitable switching, fuse protection, wiring, and control components. Do not short wires or exceed component ratings.
Do linear actuators have built-in limit switches?
Most linear actuators include internal limit switches, but this depends on the model. Always check the product page or datasheet for the specific linear actuator.
Do I need a control box?
Use a control box if you want remote control, synchronized movement, multiple actuator control, feedback compatibility, or easier plug-and-play wiring.
What power supply do I need for a 12V actuator?
Use a 12 VDC power supply with enough current for the actuator under load. The power supply, switch, relay, and controller all need ratings suitable for the actuator.
Can I control a linear actuator with Arduino?
Yes, but an Arduino should not directly power the actuator. Use the Arduino's programming logic to control a relay or motor driver that is rated for the actuator’s voltage and current.
What should I do with extra feedback wires?
Do not connect feedback wires to motor power unless the product documentation specifically says to. Feedback wires should be connected only to compatible controllers or monitoring circuits that can utilize the transmitted positional information.