The Effects of Space Radiation on Optocouplers*

Space radiation effects on optocouplers are discussed, including permanent degradation from protons and electrons, and short-duration transients from protons and heavy ions. Proton displacement damage is shown to be the most important degradation mechanism, even for optocouplers with radiation resistant light emitters. Amplifier design and light sensitivity both contribute to transient effects, which can persist for time periods of nearly one microsecond in some devices. I