Avago optocouplers detect AC/DC sources

Avago Technologies has announced two miniature voltage/current-threshold-detection optocouplers for use in a range of industrial-control applications.

The ACPL-K370/K376 optocouplers are designed to detect AC/DC sources and convert the voltage to a logic interface across an optical coupling barrier to provide safe isolation in the electronically noisy environments found in industrial applications.

These voltage/current-sensing optocouplers are suitable for use in applications such as limit-switch sensors, low-voltage detectors, relay-contact monitors, relay-coil-voltage monitors and current sensors.

The ACPL-K370/K376 series utilises threshold-sensing input-buffer ICs that permit control of threshold levels over a range of input voltages up to 1,140V peak with a single external resistor.

Some of the benefits provided by the optocoupler series include a smaller stretched SO-8 (SSO-8) package that meets 8mm clearance and creepage requirements, and requires 30 per cent less printed-circuit-board space compared to dual-inline packages (DIP-8).

The input buffer of these optocouplers offers hysteresis for extra noise and switching immunity, a diode bridge for use with AC input signals and internal clamping diodes to protect the buffer and LED from a range of over-voltage and over-current transients.

With the addition of the ACPL-K370/K376 series, Avago can offer another SSO-8 package option in addition to existing DIP packages to provide customers with more optocoupler options for higher-voltage industrial applications.

The ACPL-K376 is a low-current version of the ACPL-K370.

To obtain lower-current operation, the ACPL-K376 uses a high-efficiency aluminum-gallium-arsenide LED, which provides higher light output at lower drive currents.

Back to top