Vishay introduces optical thyristor output optocoupler

     Vishay further expands its optoelectronics portfolio with the introduction of two new series of optically thyristor output optocouplers in compact DIP-6 and SMD-6 packages -VOT8026A and VOT8123A. Vishay Semiconductors VOT8026A and VOT8123A offer high stability and noise isolation with off-state voltages up to 800 V and static dV/dt of 1000 V/μs, suitable for household appliances and industrial equipment.

     The optocoupler isolates low-voltage logic for 120 VAC, 240 VAC, and 380 VAC lines and controls resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads, including motors, solenoid valves, high-current thyristors, or TRIacs, and relays. Both devices consist of GaAs infrared leds that can be optically coupled to a zero-cross TRIAC (VOT8026A) to reduce EMI without the need for an external buffer network, or to a random-phase TRIAC (VOT8123A) to enable phase-independent switching, thereby reducing design costs and saving board space.

     The VOT8026A and VOT8123A high off-state voltage increases the safety margin for single-phase applications while maintaining sufficient voltage margin for three-phase applications. For added safety, both optocouplings withstand a minimum isolation voltage of 5000 VRMS. The VOT8026A and VOT8123A have low trigger currents of 5mA and 10mA, respectively, for easy connection to the digital logic interface.

     The new optocoupler is RoHS compliant and typical applications include power TRIAC drivers for solid-state relays, three-phase air conditioners, boilers, thermostats, industrial motor controls and power line switches, as well as motor, luminaires and valve controls in household appliances.