Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation has introduced a new photovoltaic-output photocoupler, the TLX9920 photocoupler, aimed at enhancing the performance and reliability of solid-state relay (SSR) systems in automotive and high-voltage applications. The product has entered volume production, reflecting growing industry demand for durable, maintenance-free switching technologies.
The launch aligns with a broader transition within the automotive sector, where manufacturers are increasingly replacing mechanical relays with SSRs to improve longevity and operational stability. Unlike conventional relays that rely on physical contacts prone to wear and tear, SSRs eliminate contact degradation, enabling longer service life and reduced maintenance requirements—an important factor as vehicles incorporate more advanced electronic systems.
The TLX9920 is designed to serve as a gate driver for high-voltage power MOSFETs used in SSR configurations. When integrated with these components, the device enables efficient high-voltage and high-current switching, addressing performance limitations typically associated with photorelays. This capability is particularly relevant in next-generation automotive architectures that require robust and reliable switching under demanding electrical conditions.
From a design perspective, the photocoupler is housed in a thin SO6L package featuring a creepage distance of more than 8 mm. This allows it to deliver a high isolation voltage of up to 5000 Vrms, supporting safe operation in high-voltage environments. The device meets the requirements of the IEC 60664-1 safety standard for insulation coordination, particularly in applications exceeding 400V under pollution degree 2 conditions. It also complies with the AEC-Q101 automotive reliability standard, indicating its suitability for stringent automotive qualification standards.
In addition to automotive applications, the TLX9920 is positioned for broader use across energy storage systems (ESS) and industrial power equipment, where reliable high-voltage switching and isolation are critical. These sectors are witnessing increased electrification and demand for components that can operate consistently in harsh environments.
