Here's a good problem for you (non-audio related)

[nobody special]

I am trying to find a circuit to replace a relay with a 120VAC coil. The relay was used to sink a DC signal to ground. I need to find a solid state circuit to replace the relay, with a cost limit of around $10- $15 US. Here's the catch: the AC line must be isolated from the DC, and it must be reversable, in case the outlet is wired wrong. I have gone over and over this, but the only circuits I can come up with will always turn on and stay on when the AC line is reversed. I was thinking of using a mosfet to sink the DC, but you can't isolate the supply, or there is no reference for the mosfet gate-source voltage! This is like a dog chasing it's tail. I thought it was an interesting problem. Maybe someone here can come up with something. Right now, I am thinking of finding a very small PC mount tranformer to supply an isolated AC signal (doesn't need to source any current- just need the voltage).
Steve

 

[SY]

Have you considered using an optocoupler?

 

[nobody special]

Yes, but I don't want to have to re-design a pcb in a few years because an opto went obsolete. I guess I forgot to mention that it should use easily replaceable parts.
I will probably stick with the relay, because it's cheap and easy (and this is for work).
Good suggestion.

 

[Da5id4Vz]

There are almost always lots of good deals to be had on used Solid State Relays.

http://www.mpja.com/productview.asp?product=12808+RL

OOPS thats backwards from your application...

 

[Da5id4Vz]

Perhaps a little closer:

How much current did you need to sink?

Will this work:

http://www.mpja.com/productview.asp?product=14578+RL

This one might be a little closer:

http://www.mpja.com/productview.asp?product=7936+RL