What Is a Signal Isolator?
A signal isolator is a critical device in electronic circuits, designed to isolate specific sections within the circuitry.
This device is commonly used to separate the input and output sides of a signal. In recent times, its application has expanded to include the isolation of both input and output sides, as well as the power supply. In electronic systems, particularly those involving high voltage, signal isolators play a vital role in preventing issues like current leakage or flow between adjacent circuits. They effectively safeguard circuits against short circuits and leakage, mitigating the risk of circuit failures. Additionally, signal isolators are instrumental in reducing noise interference and preventing signal crosstalk, thereby ensuring signal integrity.
A prevalent method employed in signal isolators is optical isolation. This technique involves converting electrical signals into light signals using an emitter and then reconverting them back into electrical signals using a receiver. Optical isolation allows for the transfer of signals while maintaining electrical isolation, offering enhanced protection and reliability in electronic circuits.