The PVDZ172N Photovoltaic Relay is a single-pole, normally open solid state relay that can replace electromechanical relays used for general purpose switching of DC loads. It utilizes International Rectifier's HEXFET power MOSFET as the output switch, driven by an integrated circuit photovoltaic generator of novel construction. The output switch is controlled by radiation from a GaAlAs light emitting diode (LED) which is optically isolated from the photovoltaic generator. These units overcome the limitations of both electromechanical and reed relays by offering the solid-state advantages of high sensitivity, miniaturization, no contact bounce, long operational life, insensitivity to external magnetic fields, shock and vibration, and high reliability inherent with solid state technology. They are ideally suited for switching high currents or low level signals without distortion or injection of electrical noise. These relays are packaged in 8-pin, molded DIP packages and available with thru-hole and surface-mount (gull-wing) leads, in plastic shipping tubes.