2008-08-01
Weidmuller manufactures an extensive range of Optocouplers that will satisfy a diverse range of applications and operational environments across all industries.
Optocouplers – mode of operation
In contrast to electromechanical relays optocouplers do not have any mechanical parts that are prone to wear. To enable the switching operation a light signal is triggered via an LED in the control circuit that causes a light-sensitive semiconductor receiver to complete a connected load circuit.
Transmitter (LED) and receiver (for example a phototransistor) are embedded in a light conducting plastic material and encased in a light-proof casing that protects against outside influences.
The key advantage of Optocouplers over conventional relays:
• Long operational lifetime and reliability: No moving parts or contact wear
• Small dimensions: Saves space on the PCB and mounting rail
• Low control power: An LED is activated - no mechanical parts are moved
• Fast response times: Fast switching, which allows high frequencies to be achieved
• No contact bounce: Reduces switching delays
• No switching noise: Suitable for use in noise-sensitive environments
• Not susceptible to shock and vibration which prevents unwanted switching statuses
• No electromagnetic radiation due to switching sparks or coils and therefore no interference of adjacent assemblies or electronics components
In order to make use of these characteristics in industrial applications suitable additional circuits are necessary on the load and control side. Therefore, with Weidmüller optocouplers and solid-state relays the focus is placed firmly on the development of products that are tailored exactly to meet the requirements of typical applications. As a result Weidmuller has a range of products to suit a wide range of applications.
Standard applications
In many industrial applications it is sufficient to utilise an opto for potential isolation and signal conditioning purposes. For these requirements Weidmüller offers opto modules 
from the MICROSERIES and MCZ-SERIES product ranges. The integrated suppressor circuits guarantee sufficient protection for applications with resistive loads as well as light inductive and capacitive loads.
With purely inductive, capacitive or comparable loads such as solenoid valves or glow lamps with high making or break¬ing spikes it must be ensured that the module has sufficient capabilities or an additional protective device may be taken into consideration.
Fast switching
Fast signal transmission is one of the advantages of optos, which makes it possible to achieve high frequencies.
Interior circuit elements in the opto module MICROOPTO 100 kHz ensures that rapidly transmitted signals are isolated from one another and that they can be transferred practically without delay. This allows switching frequencies up to 100 kHz to be achieved.
Special loads
Weidmüller not only offers a product assortment for standard applications but also offers opto solutions for special applications. Interface circuits, switching amplification and protective circuits are specifically adapted to meet the requirements of the corresponding applications.
The solid-state relay MICROOPTO ACTOR has been especially designed as a switching amplifier for actuators up to 24 V DC and 2A with inductive loads such as solenoid valves and contactors. 3-wire actuators can be connected directly to the module. It is short-circuit proof and protected against application-related transients and spikes by extensive protective circuitry.
The solid-state relay MICROOPTO 300 V DC has been developed as a switching amplifier for high inductive loads up to 300 V DC and 1 A in motor brakes and contactors. A power boost in the load circuit compensates transient over¬loads (20 A for 20 ms / 5 A for 1 s) such as making or breaking spikes. Additional protective circuits counter higher overloads.
Weidmuller’s Optocouplers form part of Weidmuller Functional Electronics portfolio of products. The complete range includes
• Power Supplies
• Analogue Signal Conditioners
• Relays & OptoCouplers
• Surge Protection devices
• PLC Interface Units
Contact Weidmuller for further information on
Tel: +44 (0) 845 094 2006
Email: sales@weidmuller.co.uk
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Source: Weidmuller |
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