Basic audio optocoupler

https://learnabout-electronics.org/Semiconductors/opto_53.php The circuit is adapted from a design in Newnes Electronic Circuits Pocket Book by Ray Marston (ISBN 10:1-4832-9192-8) uses the 4N25 connected as a phototransistor to pass audio signals whilst isolating the input and output circuits. An LM324 op amp is used here to drive the LED input of the 4N25. R1 and R2 form a potential divider to set pin 3 (the non-inverting input of the op amp) to half of the supply voltage and the audio input signal is superimposed on this DC bias voltage via C1 to modulate the current through the LED. Because the LM324 is connected in voltage follower mode with the LED forming part of the negative feedback loop, pin 1 exactly follows the voltage variations at pin 3, so varying the current though the LED. With no signal applied the standing current though the LED is about 0.5 to 1mA depending on the value of R3 and the supply voltage used for the input circuit.

published 5 years ago