Microchip Technology MAPLAD18KP64CAE3

Overview

MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 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, features 64 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps to ≤103 V at 175 A peak impulse current (IPP), and exhibits 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance for efficient heat dissipation in lightning and load-dump scenarios.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 datasheet, MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 pinout, MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 application, or MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 equivalent, this device is selected for secondary lightning protection per IEC 61000-4-5 (2 Ω, 4 Ω, 12 Ω, 42 Ω source impedances), RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 & 5A pin injection compliance, and high-reliability AEC-Q101 qualification with MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening options.

Technical Context

The MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 employs an avalanche diode structure optimized for fast response (<5 ns clamping time) and low dynamic impedance under multi-stroke transients. Its bidirectional construction enables symmetrical clamping for AC-coupled or floating signal lines, and its metal-base thermal path supports direct heatsink mounting to sustain repeated 18 kW surges at ≤0.05% duty factor.

It meets RTCA DO-160F Section 22 for multi-stroke lightning immunity and provides ESD/EFT protection per IEC 61000-4-2/4-4. The device operates across –55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature and maintains stable breakdown voltage with ±75 mV/°C temperature coefficient (αV(BR)) over its rated range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 uses a surface-mount PLAD package with metal base cathode termination. The device has two terminals: Cathode (metal base/underside) and Anode (top-side marked terminal). Polarity marking is visible on top surface; cathode is electrically connected to the thermally conductive metal base for low-inductance, low-resistance grounding.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ64CA and SMCJ64CA, MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 delivers 30× and 12× higher peak pulse power respectively, includes full DO-160F and MIL-PRF-19500 support, and provides a metal-base thermal interface essential for sustained multi-stroke operation in mission-critical systems.

Availability

MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive powertrain electronics, and industrial motor drive systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and certified surge immunity.

Supply support for MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 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 semiconductor solutions for aerospace, defense, communications, and industrial markets, with expertise in radiation-hardened ICs, timing devices, and power protection components.

The MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD TVS family, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning and load-dump protection in safety-critical platforms where standard TVS arrays lack sufficient energy handling or certification coverage.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 at its rated peak impulse current?

The MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 103 V when subjected to its rated peak impulse current (IPP) of 175 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed per the manufacturer's electrical characteristics table and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during a full-energy surge event. The clamping performance is validated across –55 °C to +150 °C operating temperature range.

Does MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 meet RTCA DO-160F Section 22 lightning standards?

Yes, MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 is explicitly rated for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 multi-stroke lightning testing. Its 18,000 W peak pulse power capability, sub-5 ns response time, and bidirectional construction enable it to pass Level 4 and Level 5 pin injection tests using Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) and Waveform 5A (40/120 μs), as confirmed in Microsemi Application Note RF01215 Rev B.

What does the "CA" suffix indicate in MAPLAD18KP64CAE3?

The "CA" suffix in MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 denotes bidirectional construction - meaning the device provides symmetrical clamping for both positive and negative transients. This distinguishes it from unidirectional variants (e.g., MAPLAD18KP64AE3), which clamp only in one polarity and require correct orientation in-circuit. The CA configuration is essential for protecting AC-coupled lines, differential buses, or floating grounds.

Is MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 qualified to AEC-Q101 and what does that mean for automotive use?

Yes, MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its reliability for automotive electronic components under stress conditions including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock. This qualification validates its suitability for under-hood and chassis-mounted applications such as engine control units and ADAS power supplies, where sustained thermal and electrical stress is expected.

How is thermal management implemented in MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 given its 18 kW rating?

MAPLAD18KP64CAE3 achieves effective thermal management via its metal-base PLAD package, delivering a low 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance. Engineers must mount the metal base directly to a thermally conductive copper plane or external heatsink using recommended pad layout (per RF01215 package drawing) to dissipate cumulative heating from repetitive surges - critical for meeting DO-160 multi-stroke requirements.