Optoisolatie

Opto-isolatie, also known as optical isolation or galvanic isolation, is a technique that uses light to transfer signals between two electrically isolated circuits. This means that there is no direct electrical connection between the two circuits, preventing the transfer of voltage or current. The primary purpose of opto-isolatie is to protect sensitive electronic components from damage caused by high voltages, electrical noise, or ground loops.

The most common device used for opto-isolatie is an optocoupler, also called an opto-isolator. An optocoupler typically consists of a light-emitting diode (LED) and a photodetector, such as a phototransistor or photodiode, enclosed in a single package. When an electrical signal is applied to the LED, it emits light. This light then travels across a small gap or through a transparent barrier to the photodetector. The photodetector, in turn, converts the light signal back into an electrical signal in the second circuit.

The effectiveness of opto-isolatie relies on the separation of the two circuits. The light transmission provides a barrier that prevents the flow of electrical current, effectively isolating the circuits. This isolation is crucial in applications where there is a significant difference in voltage potential between circuits, or where noise from one circuit could interfere with the operation of another. Common uses include power supplies, motor control, medical equipment, and communication interfaces.