6N138
Overview
The 6N138 is a single-channel high-gain optocoupler featuring a GaAsP LED optically coupled to a high-gain Darlington photo-detector. It is designed for low-power applications requiring high isolation and high current transfer ratios with minimal input current.
Why Choose This Part
The 6N138 offers an exceptionally high typical current transfer ratio of 2000 percent, allowing it to drive loads up to 50mA with very low LED drive currents. It provides 5000Vrms isolation in a standard 8-DIP package and is fully TTL compatible for easy integration into 5V digital systems.
Applications
Key Specifications
Getting Started
When designing with the 6N138, ensure a bypass capacitor is placed near the VCC pin and select a pull-up resistor that balances switching speed with power consumption. For breadboard prototyping, use the 8-DIP through-hole version and verify that the output current does not exceed the 50mA rating.



