Microchip Technology MAPLAD18KP90CA

Overview

MAPLAD18KP90CA 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 ≤146 V under 100 A peak impulse current, and features a 90 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (100–111 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 MAPLAD18KP90CA datasheet, MAPLAD18KP90CA pinout, MAPLAD18KP90CA application, or MAPLAD18KP90CA equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability DC bus protection where low thermal resistance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W), RoHS-compliant matte-tin terminations, and verified 100% surge testing are mandatory design criteria.

Technical Context

The MAPLAD18KP90CA operates as a bidirectional avalanche diode-based TVS, leveraging silicon junction technology to clamp transients symmetrically across both polarities. Its low RθJC (0.7 °C/W) enables efficient heat transfer to the PCB copper pad or heatsink, supporting sustained multi-pulse operation per RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 (Level 4) and Waveform 5A (Level 4 up to 36 V variants).

It is rated for junction temperatures from –55 °C to +150 °C and exhibits a temperature coefficient of breakdown voltage (αV(BR)) of +109 mV/°C - critical for stable clamping performance across wide ambient ranges in avionics and engine bay applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD18KP90CA uses a surface-mount PLAD package with two terminals: anode and cathode formed on opposite sides of the metal base. The cathode is the metal backside (package bottom); polarity is marked on body per Microsemi nomenclature. Package dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H), with void-free UL94V-0 epoxy body and matte-tin (e3) RoHS-compliant terminations.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ90CA and SMCJ90CA, the MAPLAD18KP90CA provides over 12× higher peak pulse power, 14× lower thermal resistance, and formal qualification for airborne lightning standards - making it irreplaceable in certified avionics and high-end automotive safety systems.

Availability

MAPLAD18KP90CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive safety-critical ECUs, and industrial motor drive systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable high-reliability sourcing.

Supply support for MAPLAD18KP90CA 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, mixed-signal, and radiation-hardened ICs for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The MAPLAD18KP90CA belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD TVS family, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning protection and load-dump immunity in mission-critical platforms where failure is not an option.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MAPLAD18KP90CA at its rated peak pulse current?

The MAPLAD18KP90CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 146 V when subjected to a 100 A peak impulse current (IPP) 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 circuitry during surge events. The MAPLAD18KP90CA maintains this clamping performance across its qualified operating temperature range.

Is MAPLAD18KP90CA qualified for RTCA DO-160F lightning testing?

Yes, the MAPLAD18KP90CA is explicitly qualified for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 multi-stroke lightning testing, including Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) Level 4 and Waveform 5A (40/120 μs) Level 4. These qualifications are documented in RF01215 Rev B and apply directly to the MAPLAD18KP90CA variant. Its 18,000 W PPP rating and low RθJC ensure repeatable performance across multiple strokes.

Does MAPLAD18KP90CA require moisture preconditioning before reflow soldering?

No, the MAPLAD18KP90CA is rated Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 (MSL-1) per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B, meaning it does not require dry packing or baking prior to surface-mount reflow. This eliminates handling overhead and reduces risk of tombstoning or solder joint defects during automated assembly - a key advantage for high-volume aerospace and automotive production of the MAPLAD18KP90CA.

What is the thermal resistance from junction to case (RθJC) for MAPLAD18KP90CA?

The MAPLAD18KP90CA has a specified thermal resistance of RθJC = 0.7 °C/W, measured from junction to the metal base (cathode side). This ultra-low value is achieved through direct metal-base thermal coupling and requires mounting on a minimum 10 cm² copper pad per the recommended pad layout. This parameter is critical for sustaining repeated 18,000 W pulses without exceeding TJ(max) = +150 °C in the MAPLAD18KP90CA.

Can MAPLAD18KP90CA be used in bidirectional AC signal lines?

Yes, the "CA" suffix confirms the MAPLAD18KP90CA is a bidirectional TVS, enabling symmetrical clamping on AC-coupled or floating DC signal paths. Its VWM = 90 V and V(BR) = 100–111 V apply equally in both directions, making it suitable for protecting RS-485, CAN FD, or Ethernet PHY interfaces exposed to differential-mode surges - provided steady-state common-mode voltage remains within ratings. The MAPLAD18KP90CA's low ID (10 μA) avoids signal distortion.