ISOCOM from Peterlee, the UK, introduces a photovoltaic optocoupler specifically designed for isolated solid-state relays (SSRs). The CHD320 part boasts a minimum open voltage of 10V, double that of standard 5V devices. As a result, only a single device is required to effectively drive the gate of a high-voltage power MOSFET.
“The photocoupler is housed in a ceramic package featuring either metal hermetic lid sealing or ceramic hermetic lid sealing, measuring a compact 3.85 x 3.85 x 1.6 mm. This design makes it ideal for driving the gates of high-voltage power MOSFETs, which are essential for developing a galvanically isolated solid-state relay function,” said Thomas Bayat, Managing Director and CEO of Isocom.
To implement and configure an isolated SSR for switching high voltages and large currents, designers usually pair a photovoltaic coupler with a MOSFET. Typical SSRs integrate these components as the output device and are generally well-suited for applications
that require on/off control of electrical currents in aerospace equipment.
The I/O relay output is used for inrush current protection in PSUs, battery voltage monitoring in battery monitoring systems and ground fault detection. It can also be used to control power and signal lines in instrumentation applications
The CHD320 is ISOCOM’s first photovoltaic coupler, boasting a minimum isolation voltage of 500V rms. Produced in AS9100D certified facilities, this photocoupler is suitable for use in defence, aerospace and space applications that operate on high voltage DC or AC
systems. The photocoupler operates effectively within a high-temperature range of -55 to 125°C.
