Vishay Intertechnology has launched the VOMHA43A, a high-performance automotive optocoupler that reduces the width of its SOP-5 package to 3.6 mm while delivering a maximum repetitive peak isolation voltage (VIORM) of 707 V. Announced on July 16, 2026, the device targets 400 V battery systems in electric and hybrid vehicles, addressing critical isolation and space constraints in modern automotive designs.
Enhanced Isolation and Performance for Automotive Applications
The VOMHA43A optocoupler is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of automotive electronics, offering a VIORM rating of 707 Vpeak—significantly higher than the 567 Vpeak typical of competing devices, according to Vishay. This elevated isolation voltage ensures reliable operation in 400 V battery systems, where voltage transients and noise can compromise system integrity.
A standout feature of the VOMHA43A is its minimum guaranteed common mode transient immunity (CMTI) of 40 kV/µs, which Vishay states is more than double that of the closest competing optocoupler. CMTI is a critical metric for isolators in high-speed automotive applications, as it measures the device’s ability to withstand rapid voltage spikes without signal degradation. In traction motor inverters, for example, switching events can generate transient voltages that separate isolation barriers by hundreds of volts within nanoseconds. Insufficient CMTI can lead to data corruption, communication errors, or system failures, making the VOMHA43A’s performance a key advantage for automotive engineers.
The optocoupler also boasts a comparative tracking index (CTI) of 400, indicating robust resistance to surface tracking on insulating materials. This property allows for shorter creepage distances at a given working voltage, enabling more compact and efficient PCB layouts—a critical consideration in space-constrained automotive designs. The device operates reliably across a temperature range of -40° C to +125° C, aligning with the thermal extremes encountered in automotive environments.
Design and Compatibility
The VOMHA43A is constructed with a GaAlAs infrared emitting diode optically coupled to an integrated photodetector and transistor. A Faraday shield on the detector chip enhances the device’s ability to reject high input-to-output common mode transient voltages, minimizing the risk of false signal transmission and improving overall system robustness.