Microchip Technology MAPLAD18KP20A
- Part No.:
- MAPLAD18KP20A
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MAPLAD18KP20A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 20VWM 32.4VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,834
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Product details
Overview
MAPLAD18KP20A from Microsemi is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace, automotive, and industrial power systems. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps at ≤32.4 V under 556 A peak impulse current, and features a 20 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with 22.2–24.5 V breakdown voltage (V(BR)). It is qualified to AEC-Q101 and meets RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection requirements.
For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD18KP20A datasheet, MAPLAD18KP20A pinout, MAPLAD18KP20A application, or MAPLAD18KP20A equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability DC bus protection where low clamping voltage, sub-100 ps response time, and multi-stroke lightning resilience are critical - especially in avionics power distribution units, engine control modules, and rail traction converters.
Technical Context
The MAPLAD18KP20A employs an avalanche diode structure optimized for fast transient response (<100 ps rise time) and low thermal resistance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W), enabling efficient dissipation of repetitive 10/1000 μs surges without cumulative heating. Its metal-base cathode construction provides direct thermal path to PCB copper or heatsink, supporting stable operation up to +150 °C junction temperature.
It operates as a unidirectional clamp with polarity-defined cathode on the metal case underside, requiring correct board-level orientation. The device is surge-tested per IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD), IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT), and IEC 61000-4-5 (lightning) with 42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances - validated for Class 1–5 immunity at VWM = 20 V.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (PPP) | 18,000 W @ 10/1000 μs - sustains full-rated surge energy without degradation in multi-stroke lightning events |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 20 V - maximum continuous DC or peak AC voltage the device blocks during normal operation |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 22.2–24.5 V @ I(BR) - precise avalanche onset ensures predictable turn-on before system damage threshold |
| Max Clamping Voltage (VC) | 32.4 V @ 556 A - limits downstream component stress to safe levels during worst-case transients |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 0.7 °C/W - enables effective heat transfer to PCB copper or external heatsink for sustained surge duty |
| Standby Current (ID) | ≤10 μA @ 20 V - negligible leakage preserves battery life and signal integrity in always-on systems |
| Response Time | <100 ps - clamps before transient edge propagates through sensitive circuitry |
Pinout & Package
MAPLAD18KP20A uses a proprietary surface-mount plastic package with metal baseplate (cathode terminal). The case is void-free thermosetting epoxy (UL94V-0), with matte-tin plated terminals solderable per MIL-STD-750 Method 2026. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H), weight ≈1 g.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Baseplate (underside) | Cathode | Primary current return path and thermal interface - must be soldered to large copper pour or heatsink |
| Top Surface Anode Pad | Anode | Solderable surface pad for connection to protected line - polarity-critical for unidirectional operation |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 18 kW Peak Pulse Rating | Enables single-device protection against RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning (Waveform 4 Level 4) without parallel staging |
| 0.7 °C/W RθJC | Reduces thermal derating impact - maintains >90% PPP rating at TC = 100 °C with minimal heatsinking |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Validated for automotive powertrain and chassis applications including load dump and jump-start conditions |
| RoHS Compliant (e3) | Meets global environmental compliance without sacrificing surge performance or thermal robustness |
| Level 1 Moisture Sensitivity | Eliminates dry-pack requirement and bake-out prior to reflow - supports standard SMT assembly flow |
Applications
| Aerospace Power Distribution | Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protection of 28 V DC bus in aircraft avionics bays exposed to lightning-induced surges per RTCA DO-160F Section 22. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient clamp on main power input, positioned upstream of DC-DC converters and microcontrollers. Use Value: Withstands ≥500 multi-stroke 10/1000 μs surges at 18 kW while maintaining clamping below 33 V - prevents latch-up and gate oxide damage in downstream SiC MOSFET drivers. |
Use Scenario: Load dump suppression on 12 V battery-fed ECU power rails during alternator regulation failure. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between battery feed and LDO input, absorbing 120 V/400 ms transients. Use Value: Clamps at 32.4 V within 100 ps, limiting stress on 36 V-rated automotive-grade regulators and CAN transceivers without crowbar action. |
| Railway Traction Converter | Industrial Motor Drive DC Link |
Use Scenario: Secondary surge protection on 750 V DC overhead line interface in train auxiliary power units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected MAPLAD18KP20A array across DC link capacitor bank to absorb switching-induced transients and induced RFI. Use Value: 0.7 °C/W thermal resistance allows direct mounting to aluminum chassis, reducing thermal interface layers and improving long-term reliability under 1000+ surge cycles. |
Use Scenario: Protection of IGBT gate driver supply rails in variable-frequency drives subjected to inductive kickback and EFT noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Local clamp on isolated 15 V gate bias rail, placed adjacent to driver IC to minimize loop inductance. Use Value: Sub-100 ps response ensures clamping occurs before gate oxide breakdown threshold (typically <35 V), preserving driver lifetime in harsh factory environments. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Littelfuse SMAJ20A | Lower PPP (400 W), smaller SMC package, higher RθJA (55 °C/W), no AEC-Q101 or DO-160 qualification | Suitable only for consumer-grade single-stroke ESD/EFT; not rated for multi-stroke lightning or automotive load dump | Select when cost and size dominate, and surge energy is <100 J per event |
| Vishay V20MLA18 | Multi-layer varistor (MLV), 18 kA peak current but lower energy density (120 J vs. 18 kW × 1 ms = 18 J per pulse), slower response (~ns) | Better for low-frequency oscillatory surges (e.g., capacitor bank switching); less effective for fast-rising lightning edges | Select when protecting against slow-rising grid transients rather than fast aviation or automotive pulses |
Compared with SMAJ20A and V20MLA18, MAPLAD18KP20A delivers 45× higher peak power handling, certified multi-stroke endurance, and sub-100 ps response - making it the only option qualified for RTCA DO-160F Level 4 lightning and AEC-Q101 automotive power systems.
Availability
MAPLAD18KP20A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace power distribution, automotive ECU protection, and industrial motor drive DC link applications requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for MAPLAD18KP20A 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) designs high-reliability analog, mixed-signal, and power semiconductors for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets, with emphasis on radiation-hardened, high-voltage, and surge-resilient components.
The MAPLAD18KP20A belongs to Microsemi's PLAD family of high-power surface-mount TVS diodes, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning protection and automotive load dump compliance in mission-critical power systems.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MAPLAD18KP20A at its rated peak pulse current?
The MAPLAD18KP20A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 32.4 V at 556 A peak pulse current (IPP) under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured per Figure 3 in RF01215 Rev B and ensures downstream 36 V-rated components remain within safe operating limits during surge events. The MAPLAD18KP20A achieves this with sub-100 ps response, minimizing overshoot before clamping engages.
Is MAPLAD18KP20A qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, MAPLAD18KP20A is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly tested for automotive load dump per ISO 7637-2 and SAE J1113-11. Its 18 kW pulse rating, 20 V VWM, and 32.4 V clamping enable robust protection of 12 V ECU power rails during alternator regulation failure. The MAPLAD18KP20A also supports extended temperature operation from −55 °C to +150 °C, meeting under-hood automotive requirements.
How is the polarity configured on MAPLAD18KP20A?
MAPLAD18KP20A is a unidirectional TVS with cathode on the metal baseplate (underside of package) and anode on the top surface pad. Correct PCB layout requires the metal base to connect to system ground or low-impedance return path, while the top pad connects to the line being protected. Reversing polarity will prevent proper clamping and may cause catastrophic failure during surge events. The MAPLAD18KP20A marking includes "A" suffix to denote unidirectional construction.
Does MAPLAD18KP20A require moisture sensitivity handling?
No, MAPLAD18KP20A has IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B Level 1 moisture sensitivity - meaning it can be stored indefinitely at ambient conditions without dry packing or baking prior to reflow. This eliminates process steps in SMT assembly and reduces risk of popcorning or delamination. The MAPLAD18KP20A's void-free epoxy body and annealed matte-tin plating further ensure reliable solder joint formation in standard lead-free reflow profiles.
Can MAPLAD18KP20A be used for RTCA DO-160F lightning protection?
Yes, MAPLAD18KP20A is validated for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) Level 4 and Waveform 5A (40/120 μs) Level 4 per Microsemi documentation RF01215 Rev B. Its 18 kW rating, low clamping voltage, and thermal design allow it to meet multi-stroke lightning requirements without performance degradation. The MAPLAD18KP20A is commonly deployed in avionics power supplies, flight control actuators, and navigation system interfaces where DO-160F compliance is mandatory.
MAPLAD18KP20A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package/Case:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 20V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 22.2V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 32.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 556A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 18000W (18kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Military
- Qualification:
- MIL-PRF-19500
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- PLAD
MAPLAD18KP20A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAPLAD18KP20A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAPLAD18KP20A on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAPLAD18KP20A reliable?
The price and inventory of MAPLAD18KP20A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAPLAD18KP20A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAPLAD18KP20A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAPLAD18KP20A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAPLAD18KP20A?
MAPLAD18KP20A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAPLAD18KP20A order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAPLAD18KP20A?
For technical support, including MAPLAD18KP20A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAPLAD18KP20A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAPLAD18KP20A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAPLAD18KP20A products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAPLAD18KP20A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAPLAD18KP20A?
All MAPLAD18KP20A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAPLAD18KP20A, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAPLAD18KP20A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAPLAD18KP20A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAPLAD18KP20A Tags

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ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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onsemi

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

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ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

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DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

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D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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