Optocouplers / Photocouplers are isolation components that transfer signals between two electrically separated circuits by using light as the transmission medium. They integrate a light-emitting element and a light-sensitive receiving element within a single device, enabling signal coupling without a direct conductive connection.
These devices are used to provide galvanic isolation, helping reduce the impact of electrical noise, ground potential differences, and unwanted coupling between circuit domains. Optocouplers are commonly categorized by the type of output stage and the intended signal transfer behavior, supporting a range of interface and control requirements.
- Electrical isolation between input and output sides
- Optical signal transfer for controlled coupling across isolation boundaries
- Functional variants based on output structure and signal handling characteristics
