Two-channel photovoltaic isolator for gate drive and relay replacement
The LH1262CAC is a dual-channel photovoltaic-output optocoupler from Vishay, packaged in an 8-SMD surface-mount case. It provides 5300Vrms galvanic isolation between a DC input LED and a photovoltaic output that can deliver up to 15V at 1µA per channel — enough to directly drive the gate of a small power MOSFET or a solid-state relay without an external bias supply.
The 5300Vrms isolation rating qualifies this part for reinforced insulation in industrial control, motor-drive feedback, and medical equipment where the safety barrier must withstand transient overvoltages. The dual-channel layout saves board space and component count when two isolated gate-drive or signal paths are needed in one package.
Switching speed and drive capability
Typical turn-on time is 35µs and turn-off is 90µs, so this optocoupler is suited for DC switching or low-frequency AC loads — not for PWM above a few hundred hertz. The photovoltaic output is current-limited to 1µA per channel, which means the load (e.g., a MOSFET gate) must have high input impedance; the 15V open-circuit voltage is enough to fully enhance a standard logic-level or standard-threshold MOSFET.
