While a transistor can be used to interface with devices that require more current or a higher voltage, a transistor is still electrically connected to the BeagleBone. A relay is a mechanical switch that is activated or deactivated by an electromagnet and can provide electrical isolation. There are a few potential hazards with controlling a relay. This applies to anything that has a coil such as a solenoid, motor, or even an electromagnet. As a group, they are known as inductive loads. Without going into the physics, switching an inductive load can result in voltage spikes, known as an inductive kickback, which can damage the transistors. The following are the points to consider when connecting to a relay: