Dual-channel isolation in an 8-DIP footprint
The HCPL2530M from onsemi packs two independent optocoupler channels into a single 8-DIP package. Each channel uses a DC-input LED driving a phototransistor output, with a guaranteed 2500Vrms isolation barrier between input and output. This dual-channel layout cuts component count compared to using two single-channel optocouplers, which matters when you're routing isolation boundaries on a multi-layer PCB. The through-hole 8-DIP body (0.300" row spacing) is a standard footprint that mates with legacy sockets or wave-solder processes.
Current transfer ratio and switching speed
The current transfer ratio (CTR) is specified at 7% minimum and 50% maximum when the forward LED current is 16mA. That spread means the designer must size the input drive and output pull-up resistor to guarantee saturation across the full CTR range — a 7% CTR at 16mA If delivers only 1.12mA at the output transistor collector, which is enough to drive a TTL gate input but not a relay coil without a buffer. Typical turn-on time is 450ns and turn-off time is 500ns. At those speeds the part supports data rates up to roughly 1 Mbps, suitable for isolated serial interfaces (UART, SPI at lower clock rates) or slow digital I/O. Faster protocols like 10 Mbps Ethernet or high-speed CAN need a logic-output optocoupler with shorter propagation delays. Maximum output voltage is 20V and continuous output current per channel is 8mA. That output rating is fine for driving a CMOS input or a small-signal transistor, but if the load needs more than 8mA you'll need a Darlington pair or a discrete buffer after the optocoupler.
Package is Tube. The base product number is HCPL2530; the 'M' suffix indicates the specific onsemi ordering code variant. If you're cross-referencing a BOM that lists HCPL2530 without the M, confirm the CTR grade and temperature range match — the M variant's -55°C to 100°C range is wider than some commercial-grade siblings.