Microchip Technology MAPLAD18KP160CAE3

Overview

MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 from Microsemi is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace and automotive systems. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps at ≤259 V under 100 A impulse current, and features a 160 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (178–197 V). It meets RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning requirements and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 datasheet, MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 pinout, MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 application, or MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, 160 V working standoff, 259 V max clamping voltage at 100 A, thermal resistance of 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case, and compliance with AEC-Q101 and MIL-PRF-19500 screening options.

Technical Context

This TVS diode employs an avalanche breakdown mechanism to divert high-energy transients away from sensitive circuitry. Its low RθJC (0.7 °C/W) enables effective heat transfer to the PCB copper pad or heatsink, supporting repeated surge events at ≤0.05% duty factor. The device is rated for junction temperatures from –55 °C to +150 °C and exhibits a temperature coefficient of breakdown voltage (αV(BR)) of 195 mV/°C.

It supports dual-standard compliance: RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) Level 4 protection up to 160 V standoff, and IEC 61000-4-5 with 42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances across multiple protection classes. Standby leakage current is limited to 10 μA at VWM, ensuring minimal impact on system bias integrity.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 uses a surface-mount plastic package with metal base cathode termination. The device has two terminals: anode and cathode, with the cathode electrically connected to the exposed metal base (bottom side), requiring proper thermal pad layout per Microsemi's recommended footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.

Compared with SMBJ160CA and SMCJ160CA, MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 provides 30× higher peak pulse power, certified DO-160 lightning resilience, and MIL-qualified screening options - making it the only choice for safety-critical aerospace power rail protection.

Availability

MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aircraft avionics, automotive ECU power systems, and industrial motor drive DC bus protection requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 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

Microsemi Corporation (now part of Microchip Technology) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-reliability analog, RF, and timing solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 belongs to Microsemi's PLAD family of high-power surface-mount TVS diodes, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning protection in certified airborne equipment and harsh-environment automotive systems.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 at its rated peak pulse current?

The MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 259 V when subjected to a 100 A peak impulse current under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured per Figure 3 in the RF01215 datasheet and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case surge events. The clamping performance is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range of –55 °C to +150 °C.

Does MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 meet AEC-Q101 qualification requirements?

Yes, MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 is tested and qualified to AEC-Q101 standards for discrete semiconductors. This includes stress tests for temperature cycling, humidity bias, mechanical shock, and surge robustness - confirming suitability for automotive under-hood applications. The qualification applies specifically to the MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 variant, not the entire MPLAD18KP family.

How does the CA suffix in MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 indicate device polarity?

The "CA" suffix in MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 explicitly denotes bidirectional construction. Unlike unidirectional variants ending in "A", the CA version conducts symmetrically for both positive and negative transients. This allows placement on AC-coupled lines or floating buses without orientation concerns - a critical feature for differential interfaces and transformer-isolated power inputs.

What thermal management guidance applies to MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 mounting?

MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 requires a minimum 12.32 mm × 10.54 mm copper pad (per RF01215 Pad Layout) directly beneath its metal base to achieve the specified 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance. Use ≥2 oz copper and thermal vias to internal ground planes. Derating begins above 100 °C case temperature - consult Figure 3 in the MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 datasheet for precise power vs. temperature curves.

Is MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 compliant with RoHS and REACH regulations?

Yes, MAPLAD18KP160CAE3 carries the "e3" suffix, indicating RoHS-compliant matte-tin terminal plating per J-STD-020B Level 1 moisture sensitivity. It is also REACH-compliant with no SVHC substances above threshold. The device requires no dry pack and may be stored indefinitely at ambient conditions prior to reflow soldering.