Get to Know the MOC3063 Triac Driver

18 October 2023


Ⅰ. What is an optocoupler?

Ⅱ. Overview of MOC3063 optocoupler

Ⅲ. Symbol, footprint and pin configuration of MOC3063

Ⅳ. Technical parameters of MOC3063

Ⅴ. What are the features of MOC3063?

Ⅵ. Working principle of MOC3063

Ⅶ. Absolute maximum ratings at Ta=25°C

Ⅷ. What are the applications of MOC3063?

Ⅸ. How to judge the quality of MOC3063 optocoupler?

Ⅹ. Precautions for using MOC3063



Ⅰ. What is an optocoupler?


An optocoupler is an electrical-to-optical-to-electrical conversion device that uses light as a medium to transmit electrical signals. It usually consists of three parts: light emission, light reception, and signal amplification. The input electrical signal drives the light-emitting diode to emit light of a certain wavelength, which is received by the photodetector to generate a photocurrent. After further amplification, this photocurrent forms an output signal and completes the conversion of electricity to light to electricity, thereby realizing the functions of input, output, and isolation. Since the input and output of the optocoupler are isolated from each other and the electrical signal transmission is unidirectional, it has good electrical insulation and anti-interference capabilities.


Optocouplers are divided into nonlinear optocouplers and linear optocouplers. The transmission characteristic curve of the nonlinear optocoupler is nonlinear and is suitable for the transmission of switching signals, but it is not suitable for the transmission of analog quantities. The commonly used 4N series optocouplers are nonlinear optocouplers. The transmission characteristic curve of the linear optocoupler is close to a straight line, and its performance is better when the signal is small, and it can perform isolation control with linear characteristics. The PC817A-C series is a commonly used linear optocoupler. In switching power supplies, we often use linear optocouplers. If the nonlinear optocoupler is misused, the oscillation waveform may deteriorate, and in severe cases, parasitic oscillation may even occur.



Ⅱ. Overview of MOC3063 optocoupler


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MOC3063 is an optocoupler device consisting of an infrared emitting diode made of gallium arsenide. These diodes are optically connected to monolithic silicon detectors and act as zero-voltage crossing bilateral bidirectional triac drivers. It is widely used in fields such as solid state relays, solenoids, control valves or AC motor drives.


Its maximum input current rating is 50mA, making it ideal for low-power applications. Additionally, the MOC3063 operates at temperatures up to 100°C and has a power dissipation of 250mW. In a zero-crossing circuit, its zero voltage is 20V.


Replacement and equivalent:

BRT12M

MOC3063S

MOC3063M

MOC3061

PC3SD21YXPDF

TLP363J

• TLP3032



Ⅲ. Symbol, footprint and pin configuration of MOC3063


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MOC3063 adopts dual in-line six-pin package, and its pin names are as follows:


Pin 1: Anode


Pin 2: Cathode


Pin 3: No Connection


Pin 4: Main Terminal


Pin 5: Not Connection


Pin 6: Main Terminal


Pin 1 and pin 2 form the anode and cathode of the infrared emitting diode. Pins 4 and 6 contain the TRIAC with zero-crossing circuitry. As for pins 3 and 5, they are not explicitly connected in the circuit.



Ⅳ. Technical parameters of MOC3063


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1. Operating temperature


Its working temperature range is generally -40 to 100 °C. In different working environments, we need to consider the temperature characteristics of the optocoupler to ensure its performance and reliability.


2. Response time


It refers to the time required from receiving the optical signal at the input end to the corresponding change at the output end. Generally speaking, the shorter the response time, the faster the response speed of the optocoupler.


3. Insulation resistance


The insulation resistance of the MOC3063 optocoupler refers to the resistance between the input terminal and the output terminal, which is used to measure the isolation performance of the optocoupler. The greater the insulation resistance, the better the isolation effect of the optocoupler. In high voltage and high frequency applications, we need to choose optocouplers with higher insulation resistance.


4. Input parameters


The input parameters of MOC3063 optocoupler mainly include operating current and operating voltage. The operating current is usually 10 to 20 mA, and the operating voltage is 1.2 to 1.5 volts. By controlling the current and voltage at the input end, we can control the switching of the optocoupler.


5. Output parameters


Output parameters include maximum blocking voltage and maximum conduction current. The maximum blocking voltage is generally 400 to 600 volts, and the maximum conduction current is 1 amp. These parameters are the voltage and current range that the optocoupler can withstand in the circuit, which can help us choose the appropriate load and protection components to avoid potential risks such as overload or short circuit.


6. Sensitivity


It describes the relationship between input optical power and output current. An increase in optical power results in a corresponding increase in output current and vice versa. By controlling the optical power at the input end, we can achieve precise control of the output circuit.


7. Coupling capacitor


It refers to the capacitance between the input and output terminals. The smaller the coupling capacitance, the easier it is for the signal at the input to be transmitted to the output, but it is also more susceptible to external interference. Therefore, when designing the circuit, we need to select an appropriate coupling capacitor value according to the needs of the specific application scenario.



Ⅴ. What are the features of MOC3063?


• Meets lead-free and EU REACH and RoHS certification requirements


• Features that minimize conduction and radiated line noise


• It has zero-crossing voltage detection function. It detects zero-crossing voltage between the two phases of the motor, ensuring that the motor can operate at a precise position. In addition, zero-crossing voltage detection also helps reduce motor noise and improve motor accuracy and stability.


• MOC3063 is an optoelectronic coupling device composed of a GaAs infrared light-emitting diode and a silicon photosensitive triac. It uses advanced packaging technology to closely combine light-emitting diodes and photosensitive triacs to achieve efficient and reliable photoelectric conversion functions.


• It adopts a zero-voltage crossover design, which can effectively reduce conduction and radiation line noise, giving people a more stable sound experience.


• It is an electronic and power triac control unit that can be used for signal transmission between resistive and inductive load circuits below AC 240V.



Ⅵ. Working principle of MOC3063


When no control signal is applied, the bidirectional thyristor module inside the MOC3063 is in a closed state, and the current is zero at this time. When a control signal is applied, MOC3063 does not turn on the triac module immediately, but waits for the power supply voltage to cross zero before triggering. This is because it is designed with a zero-crossing detection module inside, which has the function of detecting changes in power supply voltage. Only when the power supply voltage reaches the zero-crossing point, the zero-crossing detection module will send out a trigger signal, causing the triac module to start working.



Ⅶ. Absolute maximum ratings at Ta=25°C


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lsolation voltage shall be measured using the following method.


(1) Short between anode and cathode on the primary side and between collector and emitter on the secondary side.


(2) The isolation voltage tester with zero-cross circuit shall be used.


(3) The waveform of applied voltage shall be a sine wave.



Ⅷ. What are the applications of MOC3063?


MOC3063 optocoupler is often used in the following fields:


• Lighting control


• Temperature controller


• Valve/solenoid control


• Static power switch


• AC motor driver



Ⅸ. How to judge the quality of MOC3063 optocoupler?


1. Appearance inspection: First, we check the appearance of the optocoupler for any abnormalities such as damage or cracks. If there is obvious physical damage to the appearance, it is likely that the optocoupler has failed.


2. Optocoupler transmission characteristics test: By adjusting the input voltage and measuring the output current at the same time, the transmission characteristics of the optocoupler can be tested. We can also plot the input voltage versus output current, which helps to more intuitively evaluate the operating performance of the optocoupler. If there is a significant non-linear relationship between the output current and the input voltage, this may indicate a problem with the optocoupler.


3. Normal working voltage test: By testing the working voltage of the optocoupler, you can determine whether it is working normally. We can use a multimeter or oscilloscope to measure the voltage at the input and output of the optocoupler. Before testing, we followed the correct voltage and polarity provided by the optocoupler's data sheet. If the voltage supplied to the input does not allow the optocoupler to operate properly, or the voltage at the output is not what expected, the optocoupler may be faulty.



Ⅹ. Precautions for using MOC3063

 

• Correct connection of pins: MOC3063 chip has a specific pin arrangement and connection method. In order to ensure the normal operation of the circuit, we must strictly adhere to the pin definitions and connect the lines correctly. Once the pins are connected reversely, the circuit board may not work properly or even damage the chip.


• Selection of withstand voltage value: When selecting the withstand voltage value of the resistor, we need to consider the withstand voltage requirements of the entire circuit. If the withstand voltage of the resistor is lower than the required withstand voltage of the circuit, it may cause the circuit to malfunction under high voltage conditions.


• Control signal input: MOC3063 requires an external control signal to turn on and off its internal triac module. Without this control signal, the MOC3063 may not be able to successfully drive its internal triac module.


• Line resistance: In the MOC3063 application circuit, in order to prevent circuit damage caused by excessive current, we need to add a current-limiting resistor to the line. When selecting the power and withstand voltage value of this resistor, we need to calculate it based on the working voltage, working current and other parameters of the actual circuit to ensure that it can effectively protect the circuit.




Frequently Asked Questions


1. What is MOC3063?


The MOC3063 is a 6-pin zero-cross phototriac drive optocoupler, it consists of a GaAs infrared emitting diode optically coupled to a monolithic silicon detector. This device is designed for use with a triac in the interface of logic systems to equipment powered from 115/240VAC lines.


2. What is the driver IC MOC3063 used for?


The MOC3063 IC is a 6-pin optocoupler that has an IR LED input coupled to a TRIAC output with a zero-crossing option. This IC is designed to drive and to provide AC isolation to logic systems and equipment powered from 115/240 VAC lines.


3. What is the operating temperature range of MOC3063?


The operating temperature of MOC3063 ranges from - 65°C to 150°C.


4. What does driver IC mean?


Driver IC is an integrated circuit chip that controls the switching and display method of LCD panels and AMOLED panels. With the increase of panel display resolution and data transmission speed, the requirements for driver ICs are also increasing.