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A latching relay is designed to maintain its state after the controlling input voltage is removed. This means that once the relay is activated (set), it will remain in that active state even after the voltage that turned it on is no longer present. This functionality is valuable in various applications, as it allows for the continuation of operation without the need for a continuous power supply to maintain that condition, hence providing a form of memory for the relay.

The ability to hold the state of being set or reset makes latching relays effective for use in applications where consistent operation is desired without constant input - such as in alarms, lights, or other control systems where actions should persist even if the triggering signal is lost temporarily. Thus, the main goal of a latching relay is not just to act on a transient signal but to ensure sustained operational states based on the last commanded condition.

This distinguishes it from other devices like standard relays, which require ongoing voltage to stay engaged and do not inherently maintain their state after the voltage is removed.