Which statement is true about the operation of an ON-delay timer contacts?

An ON-delay timer operates by allowing contacts to change position after a specified time period has elapsed following the receipt of power. This means that once the timer is energized, there is a predetermined delay before the contacts will move to their active state. This functionality is crucial for applications requiring a time lapse before activating a circuit, such as motor start-up sequences or coordinating the timing of multiple operations.

In contrast, the immediate change of position upon receiving power does not align with the definition of an ON-delay timer, as that behavior characterizes instantaneous or normally open contacts without delay. Moreover, stating that the timer has no action when energized misrepresents its purpose, as its primary function is, in fact, to introduce a delay before activation. The notion that the timer cannot de-energize any loads attached is also misleading, as ON-delay timers are designed to control the flow of power to loads after their timing cycle has been completed. This distinguishes ON-delay timers from other types of timing mechanisms used in electrical control systems.