Analog Devices Inc. ADUM161N1BRZ

Overview

ADUM161N1BRZ from Analog Devices is a 6-channel, 3.0 kV_RMS digital isolator using iCoupler® transformer-based technology. It provides bidirectional signal isolation with 150 Mbps guaranteed data rate, 13 ns max propagation delay at 5 V, and fail-safe high output configuration. It enables robust SPI/data converter isolation in industrial PLCs and motor drives.

For engineers reviewing the ADUM161N1BRZ datasheet, ADUM161N1BRZ pinout, ADUM161N1BRZ application, or ADUM161N1BRZ equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, safety-certified insulation parameters, channel-level timing behavior, and real-world design context for high-noise industrial interfaces.

Technical Context

The ADUM161N1BRZ implements six independent unidirectional CMOS-isolated channels with asymmetric fail-safe logic (outputs default high when input-side power is absent). Its monolithic air-core transformer architecture ensures dc-correct output states without input toggling, eliminating optocoupler-style refresh requirements.

It supports dual-supply operation from 1.7 V to 5.5 V per side, enabling level translation across the isolation barrier. Channel-to-channel propagation delay matching is ≤4.0 ns (codirectional), and common-mode transient immunity is rated at 100 kV/µs - critical for gate driver feedback and encoder interfaces in variable-frequency drives.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ADUM161N1BRZ uses a 16-lead, RoHS-compliant narrow-body SOIC package (SOIC_N) with 4.01 mm minimum creepage/clearance and reinforced insulation barrier.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital isolator applications.

Compared with SI8661BB-B-IS1 and ISO6761FRDWR, ADUM161N1BRZ uniquely combines 3.0 kV_RMS reinforced isolation, 150 Mbps throughput, and factory-configured fail-safe high outputs - reducing external component count and simplifying functional safety validation in industrial control systems.

Availability

ADUM161N1BRZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor drives, PLC I/O modules, and isolated data acquisition systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and certified safety compliance.

Supply support for ADUM161N1BRZ includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets.

The ADuM16xN series was designed specifically for high-reliability multichannel isolation in harsh electromagnetic environments - targeting applications demanding both speed and safety-certified reinforcement, such as factory automation and medical equipment.

FAQ

What is the fail-safe output behavior of ADUM161N1BRZ?

The ADUM161N1BRZ has a fail-safe high configuration: when VDD1 (input-side supply) is absent or below UVLO threshold (1.5 V), all three output channels (OUTD, OUTE, OUTF) drive logic high. This behavior is factory-set and does not require external components. ADUM161N1BRZ guarantees this state across −40°C to +125°C, making it suitable for safety-monitoring paths where undefined outputs could trigger hazardous conditions.

Does ADUM161N1BRZ support 1.8 V logic on both sides?

Yes, ADUM161N1BRZ operates with VDD1 and VDD2 independently configurable from 1.7 V to 5.5 V. At 1.8 V supply, it delivers 150 Mbps data rate with 15 ns max propagation delay and maintains full dc correctness. Input thresholds scale to 0.7×VDDx and 0.3×VDDx, ensuring compatibility with 1.8 V CMOS logic families on either side of the isolation barrier - confirmed in Table 7 of the Rev. B datasheet.

What safety certifications apply to ADUM161N1BRZ?

ADUM161N1BRZ is certified to UL 1577 (3000 V_RMS, 1 min), DIN EN IEC 60747-17 (VDE 0884-17) for reinforced insulation (VIORM = 565 V_PEAK), IEC/CSA 62368-1, IEC/CSA 60601-1 (1 MOPP), and CQC GB 4943.1. These approvals are documented in Table 11 of the datasheet and verified via 100% production partial-discharge testing at 1059 V_PEAK.

How does ADUM161N1BRZ compare to optocouplers in terms of power consumption?

At 100 Mbps data rate, ADUM161N1BRZ draws typical total supply current of 17.3 mA (Side 1) + 14.5 mA (Side 2) = 31.8 mA at 3.3 V - significantly lower than equivalent-speed optocouplers, which often exceed 50 mA. Its dynamic current scales linearly at 0.01–0.02 mA/Mbps, and quiescent current is as low as 2.5 mA per side when idle. This reduces thermal load and simplifies power supply design in dense industrial modules.

Can ADUM161N1BRZ replace ADUM160N1BRZ in an existing design?

Yes, ADUM161N1BRZ is pin-compatible and functionally identical to ADUM160N1BRZ in the same SOIC_N-16 package, differing only in internal channel direction assignment (ADUM160N1 has inputs on Side 1 and outputs on Side 2; ADUM161N1 matches that configuration). Both share identical timing, isolation, and electrical specs. No PCB or firmware changes are required for substitution - confirmed in the Ordering Guide and Pin Configurations section (Page 17) of the datasheet.