Optoisolators - Logic Output

The HCPL-2211#300 is an optical coupler in the family of logic output optoisolators. Optoisolators are components used to electrically isolate circuits from one another, providing a degree of electrical isolation while still permitting communication across the gap. The logic output family of optoisolators make use of digital inputs and outputs.

Application Field

The HCPL-2211#300 is optimized for data rates up to 4 Mbps and is well suited to applications in a variety of fields, such as automotive, power electronics, and industrial automation and control. The device is used where isolation between an output and input is required. Examples include isolating a microcontroller output from a power circuit, isolating a signal circuit from a system controller circuit, and isolating a signal circuit from a load circuit.

Working Principle

The HCPL-2211#300 optoisolator works by using a light source to carry a signal across an optically isolated barrier. On the input side of the optoisolator, there is a light emitting diode (LED) that produces a visible light signal in response to an electrical input. On the output side of the optoisolator, there is a phototransistor that responds to the light output from the LED, producing an electrical output in response. The light signal is kept in a confined area (i.e. the transfer region) where it is not exposed to ambient light. This allows the optoisolator to operate with high accuracy, even in the presence of high ambient light levels.

Using the HCPL-2211#300

The HCPL-2211#300 is a 3-pin optoisolator with a data input pin (DI), a collector output pin (CO), and a supply voltage pin (Vcc). The DI and Vcc pins should be connected to a DC power source, and the CO pin should be connected to the circuit to be controlled. When the electrical input is applied to the DI pin, the LED inside the optoisolator will be illuminated, causing the phototransistor to conduct current from the CO pin. At the same time, the electrical input is held in isolation from the CO pin, allowing for voltage isolation.

Conclusion

The HCPL-2211#300 is a logic output optoisolator that is particularly well-suited to applications in the automotive, power electronics, industrial automation and control fields. The device works by using a light source to carry a signal across an optically isolated barrier, with a data input pin, a collector output pin, and asupply voltage pin. With the use of this optoisolator, circuits can be kept isolated from one another while still permitting communication across the gap.