Optical isolation used in I/O modules helps to reduce the effects of electrical noise.
A. True
B. False
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Answer: A
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Explanation:
The statement is true. Optical isolation used in I/O (Input/Output) modules helps to reduce the effects of electrical noise.
Electrical noise refers to unwanted or undesirable electrical signals or interference that can corrupt data, disrupt communication, and cause errors in electronic circuits. In industrial environments or complex electronic systems, electrical noise can be a significant problem and may arise from various sources, such as electromagnetic interference (EMI), radio-frequency interference (RFI), power spikes, ground loops, and other electrical disturbances.
Optical isolation is a technique used to mitigate the effects of electrical noise. It involves using an opto-isolator, which is an electronic component that provides electrical isolation between input and output circuits by using light to transmit signals. The opto-isolator consists of an LED (Light-Emitting Diode) on the input side and a phototransistor or photodiode on the output side, separated by an optically transparent barrier.
When an electrical signal is applied to the input (LED side) of the opto-isolator, it emits light. The light then crosses the optically transparent barrier and is detected by the phototransistor or photodiode on the output side. This optically isolated configuration ensures that there is no direct electrical connection between the input and output sides, providing galvanic isolation.
Galvanic isolation prevents electrical noise from propagating between the input and output sides. Therefore, any electrical noise present on the input side does not affect the output side, and vice versa. This helps to improve the reliability, accuracy, and performance of the I/O modules and the overall system, particularly in noisy industrial environments or when dealing with sensitive signals.