optocoupler
nounUK /ˈɒptəʊkʌplə/
US /ˈɑːptoʊkʌplər/
A small part that sends a signal with light so two electric circuits can talk without touching.
The robot uses an optocoupler to keep its motor circuit safe from the computer.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A device that uses light to transfer an electrical signal between two separate circuits.
Engineers chose an optocoupler to protect the sensitive sensor from high voltage.
3. A component that prevents electrical noise or dangerous voltage from passing between parts of a system.
The optocoupler blocked the surge and saved the microcontroller.
4. A light-based switch used in electronics to connect input and output without a wire.
In the power supply, the optocoupler feeds back voltage information using light.