Is a solenoid an output?

Is a solenoid an output?
No, a solenoid is an actuator, which helps a computer or robotic system to output a response. The output of a solenoid is in the form of movement.

Solenoids are used to move an arm or plunger through a small movement with the aid of an electromagnet. When an electric current runs through the electromagnet, it will move, hence it is sued to push or pull an object.




It is my understanding that a solenoid is merely a magnetic switch. Early vehicles with power starters had a separate, non keyed starting motor. Very early vehicles had hand cranks. The solenoid allows a key driven electric starter. The purpose is to prevent high voltages from needing to go through the steering column. Here's what happens; you turn the key and a small amount of electricity travels to the solenoid, it trips the magnetic switch, which completes a circuit to allow more massive amount of energy to engage the starter motor. This is why you hear the clicking when your battery is low. The clicking is simply the solenoid switching on and off.