## Overview

The onsemi 4N36TM is a high-performance optocoupler designed for electrical isolation between input and output circuits while allowing signal transmission via an optical interface. It integrates an infrared LED and a phototransistor in a single package, providing galvanic isolation to protect low-voltage logic circuits from high-voltage transients. This device is widely used in industrial control, switching power supplies, microprocessor input isolation, and signal coupling applications where noise immunity and safety are critical.

## Key Features

* High isolation voltage rating for safe separation between input and output
* Infrared LED input and phototransistor output for reliable signal transmission
* Fast response for moderate-speed digital communication
* Compact transistor-output optocoupler package suitable for PCB mounting
* Available in through-hole packages for easy assembly
* Low input current required for activation, reducing power consumption
* Suitable for both AC and DC input signal applications

## Electrical Characteristics

* Input Forward Voltage (V_F): 1.15 V typical at I_F = 10 mA
* Input Forward Current (I_F): 20 mA maximum continuous, 50 mA peak
* Input Reverse Voltage (V_R): 6 V maximum
* Output Collector-Emitter Voltage (V_CEO): 70 V maximum
* Output Collector Current (I_C): 50 mA maximum
* Current Transfer Ratio (CTR): 50% to 600% at I_F = 10 mA
* Isolation Voltage (V_ISO): 5,000 Vrms between input and output
* Collector-Emitter Saturation Voltage (V_CE(sat)): 0.3 V typical at I_C = 2 mA, I_F = 5 mA

## Package and Thermal Information

* Package Type: 6-pin Dual-In-Line (DIP-6) through-hole
* Operating Temperature Range: -55 °C to +100 °C
* Storage Temperature Range: -55 °C to +125 °C
* Power Dissipation: 150 mW typical
* Compact footprint suitable for high-density PCB layouts

## Switching and Performance Characteristics

* Propagation Delay Time (t_PLH / t_PHL): 3 μs to 5 μs typical at I_F = 10 mA, R_L = 100 Ω
* Rise and Fall Time: 2 μs typical
* Low input-to-output capacitance ensures minimal signal distortion in digital circuits
* CTR stability over temperature ensures consistent performance in industrial environments
* Designed for reliable operation under noisy power supply and transient conditions

## Applications

* Digital logic isolation and interface circuits
* Switching power supply feedback and control
* Microcontroller input/output isolation
* Industrial process control systems
* Signal isolation in noisy or high-voltage environments
* AC line sensing and zero-crossing detection

## Advantages

* Provides galvanic isolation to protect sensitive electronics from high-voltage spikes
* Wide current transfer ratio range allows flexibility in circuit design
* Fast response suitable for moderate-speed switching applications
* Compact and reliable DIP-6 package simplifies PCB layout and assembly
* Robust operation over a wide temperature range for industrial use
* Low input current requirement reduces system power consumption

## Summary

The onsemi 4N36TM is a robust transistor-output optocoupler optimized for high-isolation, low-power, and moderate-speed applications. Its combination of high isolation voltage, reliable infrared LED-to-transistor coupling, and wide operating range makes it suitable for industrial, power supply, and microcontroller interfacing applications. Its compact DIP-6 package, low input current requirement, and fast response enable versatile implementation in both AC and DC signal isolation scenarios, ensuring safety, noise immunity, and reliable signal transmission.