ABSTRACT
Optically coupled isolators, also called optocouplers, are used to isolate one electrical system from another in an electronic circuit. There are many situations in which signals and data need to be transferred from one system to another within a piece of electronic equipment, without making a direct electrical connection. The optical isolator or optical coupler uses a beam of light to send a signal to an optical receiver. The optical isolator or coupler is normally driven from a DC source, and the output drives an electronic or DC circuit. The performance of the coupler versus temperature generally will track the performance of a reflective or transmissive switch versus temperature. Each manufacturer has a variety of standard couplers with varying specifications listed under their own unique part numbers. Specialty couplers are available from a variety of manufacturers. They generally differ significantly in shape.
