Vishay's New High-Voltage Optocoupler Meets ATEX Standard for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres

Device Offers Input-to-Output Distance of >3 mm, CTR of 50% to 300%

MALVERN, PENNSYLVANIA — September 12, 2003 — Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. (NYSE: VSH) today announced the release of a new high-voltage optocoupler that meets the European Union's ATEX standard for operation in potentially explosive atmospheres.

Designed to enable galvanically separated circuits in environments including coal mines, chemistry labs, refineries, and mills, the new Vishay Semiconductors CNY65Exi consists of a phototransistor optically coupled to a gallium arsenide (GaAs) infrared-emitting diode in a four-lead, plastic package.

The CNY65Exi's optical components are mounted opposite one another, maintaining the highest safety standards with an input-to-output distance of 13 mm. The device's specially molded plastic package measures 17.8 mm by 9.6 mm with a height of 6.1 mm. It features a pin index of 15.24 mm and is designed for a J coupling system.

The new optocoupler features a current transfer ratio (CTR) range of 50% to 300%. The creepage current resistance of the isolation material according to VDE 0303/DIN 53480 is ≥475, and the isolation test voltage is 11.6 kV. A very low typical coupling capacity of 0.3 pF provides resistance to high-noise voltage.

In addition to meeting EU health and safety guidelines EN 50014:1997+A1+A2 and EN 50020:1994, the CNY65Exi is ATEX-certified (PTB 03 ATEX 2033 U) for explosive atmospheres according to the European guideline 94/9/EG and meets specifications for isolation material according to UL94?VO?flammability class. The device also meets test class 25/100/21 DIN 40045 requirements.

Samples and production quantities of the new CNY65Exi high-voltage optocoupler from Vishay Semiconductors are available now, with lead times of six weeks for larger orders.

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc., a Fortune 1,000 Company listed on the NYSE (VSH), is one of the world's largest manufacturers of discrete semiconductors (diodes, rectifiers, transistors, and optoelectronics and selected ICs) and passive electronic components (resistors, capacitors, inductors, sensors, and transducers). These components are used in virtually all types of electronic devices and equipment, in the industrial, computing, automotive, consumer, telecommunications, military, aerospace, and medical markets. Its product innovations, successful acquisition strategy, and ability to provide "one-stop shop" service have made Vishay a global industry leader. Vishay can be found on the Internet at http://www.vishay.com.