Optocoupler delivers faster response time

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. has claimed the industry’s first AEC-Q102 qualified linear optocoupler with a high isolation voltage of 5300 Vrms for automotive applications. The Vishay Semiconductors VOA300 is said to provide a response time that is five times faster than competing devices with an increased transfer gain stability of ±0.005 %/°C typical.

(Source: Vishay Intertechnology)

The linear optocoupler delivers fast data transfers at the rate of 1.4 MHz, while the fast response time enables quick detection of voltage and current ripples for battery cut-off mechanisms (eFuses) that protect passengers and vehicles, said Vishay.

Other key features include a low input-output capacitance of 1 pF typical, high gain linearity of ±0.25 %, and low power consumption of <15 mW. The operating temperature range is -40°C to 125°C, making it suitable for applications in harsh industrial environments

The optocoupler is comprised of an AIGaAs infrared LED (IRLED) irradiating an isolated feedback diode and an output PIN photodiode in a bifurcated arrangement. Vishay said the “feedback photodiode captures a percentage of the LED’s flux and generates a control signal that is used to servo the LED drive current, while the output PIN photodiode produces an output signal that’s linearly related to the servo optical flux created by the LED.”

In addition, the matched PIN photodiodes that track the output flux of the LED ensure the time and temperature stability of the input-output coupler.

The device also offers a single-ended output for design flexibility, which can be directly connected to an amplifier stage or an analog-to-digital converter. The optocoupler is used for galvanically isolated current and voltage measurement in electric vehicles (EVs), including on-board chargers (OBCs), traction inverters, and DC/DC converters. The optocoupler is RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, and Vishay Green.

Samples and production quantities of the VOA300 are available now, with lead times of 10 weeks. Pricing for U.S. delivery is $2.00 each in quantities of 1,000.