Relays come in many different types, each designed to serve specific purposes. Some common types include electromagnetic relays, solid-state relays, and reed relays. Electromagnetic relays operate by using an electromagnet to open or close contacts, achieving a reliable switching action. Solid-state relays, on the other hand, use semiconductor devices to perform the switching function, offering benefits such as no moving parts, faster switching speeds, and increased durability. Reed relays consist of thin metal reeds enclosed in a glass tube that close when subjected to a magnetic field. The selection of a particular relay type hinges on the operational demands of the application.