The principle and function of optoelectronic isolators

　　Optocoupler is an electronic component that utilizes the photoelectric effect to achieve isolated transmission of electrical signals. The core principle is to convert electrical signals into optical signals through the combination of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and phototransistors or photodiodes, and then convert the optical signals back into electrical signals, thereby achieving electrical isolation between input and output circuits.

　　working principle

　　The basic structure of a photoelectric isolator includes a light emitting diode (LED) and a photosensitive transistor or photodiode. When the electrical signal at the input drives the LED to emit light, the light signal is transmitted through an isolation medium (usually air or resin) to the photosensitive transistor or photodiode, causing it to generate a photocurrent, which is then amplified to output the electrical signal. Due to the lack of direct electrical connection between the input and output circuits, the potential difference between the two can be effectively isolated, avoiding noise interference and high voltage impact.

　　Main function

　　Improving system security: Optoelectronic isolators can effectively isolate high voltage and high current circuits, prevent high voltage from entering low voltage systems, and protect the safety of equipment and operators.

　　Suppressing noise interference: During signal transmission, optoelectronic isolators can cut off the ground loop between two locations, effectively suppressing noise interference and improving the stability of signal transmission.

　　Extending equipment lifespan: Due to the non-contact signal transmission method used by the optoelectronic isolator, it can avoid problems such as contact wear and oxidation, and extend the service life of the equipment.

　　High speed transmission: Optoelectronic isolators have a fast response speed and are suitable for high-speed signal transmission.

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