Microchip Technology MAPLAD18KP22CA

Overview

MAPLAD18KP22CA from Microsemi is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace, automotive, and industrial systems. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps at ≤35.5 V under 508 A peak impulse current, and features a 22 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (24.4–26.9 V). It meets RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection (Waveform 4) and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD18KP22CA datasheet, MAPLAD18KP22CA pinout, MAPLAD18KP22CA application, or MAPLAD18KP22CA equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, 22 V working voltage, sub-100 ps response time, low thermal resistance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W), and compliance with AEC-Q101 and MIL-PRF-19500 screening options.

Technical Context

The MAPLAD18KP22CA employs an avalanche diode structure optimized for multi-stroke lightning transients per RTCA DO-160 Section 22. Its metal-base cathode construction enables direct thermal coupling to heatsinks, supporting high-repetition-rate surge events with ≤0.05% duty factor.

It operates across –55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature, maintains <10 μA standby current at 22 V, and achieves clamping voltage stability under IEC 61000-4-2 ESD (±30 kV air), IEC 61000-4-4 EFT (40 A), and IEC 61000-4-5 surge (42 Ω, 2 Ω, and 12 Ω source impedances).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD18KP22CA uses a low-profile, void-free thermosetting epoxy surface-mount package (PLAD) with metal base cathode. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H); weight ≈1 g. Cathode is on the metal bottom surface; anode is on top-side metallization.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ22CA and SMCJ22CA, MAPLAD18KP22CA provides >12× higher pulse power handling, certified aerospace qualification, and thermal performance enabling sustained multi-pulse operation - making it irreplaceable in safety-critical vehicle and aircraft power systems.

Availability

MAPLAD18KP22CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for avionics power distribution, automotive load dump protection, and industrial motor drive I/O requiring stable component supply across extended lifecycle programs.

Supply support for MAPLAD18KP22CA 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 semiconductors for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets, with emphasis on radiation-hardened ICs, timing solutions, and robust discrete protection devices.

The PLAD family was developed specifically for high-energy, high-reliability transient suppression in mission-critical platforms where failure is not an option - including fly-by-wire systems, rail signaling, and electric vehicle powertrains.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MAPLAD18KP22CA at its rated peak pulse current?

The MAPLAD18KP22CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 35.5 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 508 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed per the datasheet's Electrical Characteristics table and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuits during worst-case surge events. The MAPLAD18KP22CA maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range (–55 °C to +150 °C) with minimal derating.

Does MAPLAD18KP22CA meet automotive qualification standards?

Yes, MAPLAD18KP22CA is tested and qualified to AEC-Q101 for stress testing including temperature cycling, mechanical shock, and humidity bias. It supports automotive applications such as engine control units and battery management systems where load dump and jump-start transients occur. The MAPLAD18KP22CA also offers optional upscreening per MIL-PRF-19500 for enhanced reliability in harsh environments beyond standard automotive requirements.

How is thermal management implemented for MAPLAD18KP22CA in PCB layout?

MAPLAD18KP22CA requires direct thermal coupling via its metal base (cathode) to a large copper pour or external heatsink. The datasheet specifies RθJC = 0.7 °C/W, meaning effective heat dissipation depends on PCB copper area, thickness, and thermal vias beneath the base. Recommended pad layout includes ≥10 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter) connecting the base to inner-layer ground planes. The MAPLAD18KP22CA must not be used without verified thermal design, especially under repetitive surge conditions.

Is MAPLAD18KP22CA RoHS compliant?

Yes, MAPLAD18KP22CA is RoHS compliant, indicated by the "e3" suffix in its full part marking per Microsemi's nomenclature. It uses annealed matte-tin plating on terminals and void-free UL94V-0 epoxy encapsulation. The device meets EU Directive 2011/65/EU and is compatible with lead-free reflow profiles up to 260 °C for 10 seconds. Full compliance documentation, including material declarations, is available upon request for MAPLAD18KP22CA.

Can MAPLAD18KP22CA be used for bidirectional data line protection?

Yes, MAPLAD18KP22CA is explicitly designed as a bidirectional TVS (denoted by the "CA" suffix) and is suitable for protecting AC-coupled or floating differential data lines such as RS-422, RS-485, CAN FD, and Ethernet PHY interfaces. Its symmetrical clamping behavior ensures equal protection for positive and negative transients. However, due to its high capacitance (>1000 pF), MAPLAD18KP22CA is not recommended for high-speed digital lines above 10 Mbps unless paired with series impedance or filtering.