FCC Exam Question: 3-19C4

What is the description of an optoisolator?

A. An LED and a photosensitive device.
B. A P-N junction that develops an excess positive charge when exposed to light.
C. An LED and a capacitor.
D. An LED and a lithium battery cell.
Correct Answer: A

Explanation: An optoisolator, also known as an optocoupler, is a device that transfers electrical signals between two electrically isolated circuits using light. It fundamentally consists of an LED (Light-Emitting Diode) on the input side, which converts an electrical signal into light. This light then shines on a photosensitive device (such as a phototransistor, photodiode, or photoresistor) on the output side, which converts the light back into an electrical signal. This setup provides crucial galvanic isolation, protecting sensitive control circuitry from noisy or high-voltage power circuits, preventing ground loops, and ensuring signal integrity—a common requirement in amateur radio interfaces and control systems. Option B describes a photodiode or solar cell, which generates charge when exposed to light, but is not the complete isolation component. Options C and D combine unrelated components; a capacitor stores charge, and a battery provides power, neither of which constitutes an optoisolator.

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Includes Elements 1, 3, 6, 7R, 8, and 9.