EL SEGUNDO, Ca. October 2001 - International Rectifier, IR(®), (NYSE: IRF) introduced the PVN013 and PVG613 micro-electronic relays (MER) that replace electro-mechanical relays in scientific instrumentation, programmable logic controllers and industrial automation. The new MERs have off-state leakage current of 10nA, which is up to 99% lower than similar devices on the market.

Lower leakage current reduces measurement errors in electronic instrumentation and eliminates most unnecessary current-fault shut-down conditions due to leakage current in safety control circuits. Therefore, designers can reduce the circuitry required to offset excessive leakage current.

Andy Serkuczewski, Director, Micro-Electronic Relay Products at International Rectifier, said, "The PVN013 and PVG613 can replace electro-mechanical relays, improving accuracy and safety while simplifying instrumentation and control circuits."

Technical Highlights

The PVN013 and PVG613 are single-pole, normally-open solid-state relays, with a unique photovoltaic generator and HEXFET(®) MOSFET output switch. The PVN013 has an off-state leakage current of 10nA at 16VDC. The PVG613 has an off-state leakage current of 10nA at 48VDC.

The PVN013 and PVG613 require 3mA to 5mA to actuate, making them directly CMOS- or TTL-compatible. The new MERs are 40% smaller, and consume up to 95% less power than electro-mechanical relays. Smaller size, simpler drive circuits and low power consumption enable sleeker designs and longer battery life in portable instrumentation.

The PVN013 is the smallest relay that can switch up to 4.5A DC and 2.5A AC/DC at 20V. The PVG613 is rated at 2A DC and 1A AC/DC at 60V.

The new MERs have an estimated lifetime of over 10 billion operations, compared to a typical lifetime of 100 thousand to 10 million operations for electro-mechanical relays under similar load conditions.

Both MERs have 4000VAC isolation voltage, for higher safety margins that meet stringent electrical safety regulations around the world.

Availability and Pricing

The PVN013 and PVG613 are available now. Pricing starts at US $3.79 each in 10,000-unit quantities.

High Resolution JPEGs are available in the Press Room.