Optocouplers

An optocoupler IC is a semiconductor device that electrically isolates two circuits through optical signal transmission. Also known as an optoisolator or photocoupler, it transfers signals between circuits without direct electrical contact.

Internally, a light emitter, such as an LED or laser diode, converts an electrical signal into light. A detector on the receiving side then converts it back to an electrical signal. This arrangement enables the optocoupler chip and optocoupler isolator to block high-voltage spikes, protecting sensitive circuit sections from damage.

RS Australia stocks over 3,600 optocoupler ICs from leading brands, including Vishay, onsemi, and Broadcom. Browse the full range to find the right component for your application.

Key Uses of Optocouplers

Optocouplers and opto-isolators offer several key functional advantages that make them essential across circuit isolation and protection applications.

• Electrical Isolation: Optocouplers block high-voltage spikes from reaching sensitive downstream components, protecting overall circuit integrity.
• Noise Suppression: Optocoupler ICs and opto-isolator ICs use optical coupling to eliminate ground loop interference in signal paths.
• Cross-Domain Signal Transfer: An optocoupler isolator transmits signals across voltage domains without any direct physical connection between circuits.
• Microcontroller Protection: Optocouplers shield logic circuits from power surges and transients in industrial equipment environments.
• Multiple Output Types: Available as opto-transistor and optocoupler transistor variants, plus TRIAC, IGBT gate drive, and Darlington configurations.
• Compact Packaging: Optocoupler chips come in SOIC and PDIP formats for straightforward integration onto PCBs.

Our Range of Optocouplers & Optoisolators

RS Australia stocks a comprehensive selection of optocoupler ICs and opto-isolator ICs across multiple output types and package formats.

Available configurations include phototransistor, Darlington, TRIAC, IGBT gate drive, CMOS, and logic gate output variants.

These come in SOIC, PDIP, and SMD packages from brands like Vishay, Toshiba, and Broadcom. Browse the sections below for the key optocoupler types.

Phototransistor Optocouplers & Opto-Transistors

The phototransistor optocoupler is the most widely used type, with a phototransistor output that detects light from the input LED and switches accordingly.

Available as opto-transistors and optocoupler transistors, these ICs come in single, dual, and quad-channel configurations. They suit signal isolation in microcontroller and logic-level circuits, with SOIC-4, DIP-4, and SOIC-8 packages available from Vishay, onsemi, and Toshiba.

Triac / Power Switching Output Optocouplers

TRIAC output optocoupler isolators suit switching high-power loads in AC circuits, making them ideal for motor control and solid-state relay applications.

IGBT gate drive opto-isolators provide isolated gate control for inverters and power conversion stages. These opto-isolator ICs carry isolation voltage ratings of up to 5,000 Vrms, making them suitable for safety-critical applications. Available from Broadcom and Toshiba.

Logic / High-Speed Output

Logic output opto-isolator ICs connect directly to CMOS and TTL logic systems for immediate signal integration. Optocoupler chips in this category suit data communication isolation in serial interfaces, including RS-232, SPI, and I2C.

High-speed variants support data rates of up to 25 Mbps for industrial communications. These optoisolator types suit PLC signal isolation, sensor interfaces, and digital isolation in embedded systems.

How to Choose the Right Optocoupler IC for Your Needs

Choosing the right optocoupler IC starts with identifying your circuit's isolation, switching, and packaging requirements.

• Output Type: Choose phototransistor optocoupler ICs for logic switching, TRIAC and IGBT for AC loads, or CMOS opto-isolator ICs for digital isolation. Some available output types include CMOS, Darlington, IGBT Gate Drive, Logic Gate, and MOSFET.
• Isolation Voltage: Select a higher Vrms-rated optocoupler isolator or opto-isolator for industrial and safety-critical environments.
• Channel Count: Match single, dual, or quad channel count to your specific circuit design requirements.
• Input Parameters: Match input current and forward voltage to your LED driver circuit when selecting an optocoupler chip.
• Package Type: Choose SOIC for SMD PCB assembly or DIP for through-hole opto-transistor and optocoupler transistor builds.

Common Industry Applications

Optocouplers and opto-isolators serve critical isolation and switching functions across a wide range of industries.

• Power Supply Switching: Opto-isolators and optoisolators isolate feedback signals between primary and secondary power supply circuits.
• Motor Drive and Servo Controllers: Optocoupler isolators enable TRIAC and IGBT gate drive switching in high-power motor control systems.
• PLC Input/Output Isolation: Optocoupler ICs and opto-isolator ICs protect logic systems from industrial voltage transients.
• Medical Equipment: High-voltage-rated opto-isolator ICs support patient isolation circuits in clinical device applications.
• Telecommunications: Optocoupler chips isolate signals across modems, line cards, and data communication interfaces.
• Arduino and Embedded Projects: Optocoupler transistors and opto-transistors isolate microcontroller GPIO pins from higher-voltage peripherals.

Buy Optocouplers at RS Australia

As a trusted manufacturer and supplier of displays and optoelectronics, RS Australia stocks a comprehensive range of optocouplers. Products are sourced from industry-leading brands, including Vishay, onsemi, Broadcom, and Toshiba, ensuring reliable quality across every application.

Additionally, complementary components like phototransistors and panel mount indicators are available to cover all signal sensing and indication needs.

Browse the full range on the RS Australia online store and have your orders delivered directly to your door. With our flexible and swift delivery options, we help you keep your projects on schedule.

Visit the delivery information page for more details on delivery times and fees.