Microchip Technology MAPLAD36KP120CAE3

Overview

MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 from Microsemi is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace, automotive, and industrial power systems. It delivers 36 kW peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, features a 120 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps to ≤193 V at 187 A peak pulse current (IPP), and operates across –55°C to +150°C junction temperature.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 datasheet, MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 pinout, MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 application, or MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its DO-160F Waveform 4/5A compliance, IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4/5 secondary lightning capability with 12 Ω and 42 Ω source impedances, low thermal resistance (RθJC = 1.0 °C/W), and RoHS-compliant e3 matte-tin plating.

Technical Context

This device implements an avalanche diode structure optimized for multi-stroke lightning transients per RTCA DO-160 Section 22 and meets IEC 61000-4-2/4-4/4-5 immunity requirements. Its bidirectional construction enables symmetrical clamping for AC-coupled or floating bus protection without polarity sensitivity.

Thermal design leverages a metal-base package with void-free UL94V-0 epoxy body and direct junction-to-case conduction path, enabling stable 36 kW dissipation under ≤0.05% duty cycle impulses when mounted on FR4 with recommended pad layout. Standby leakage (ID ≤10 μA @ 120 V) ensures minimal system loading during normal operation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 uses a surface-mount PLAD package with metal base acting as cathode for unidirectional variants; for bidirectional devices like this one, both terminals are symmetrical and non-polarized. The package measures 12.32 mm × 10.54 mm × 5.08 mm (L × W × H) with two solderable terminals on opposite long edges.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ120CA and SMCJ120CA, MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 provides 24× and 24× higher peak pulse power respectively, validated multi-stroke lightning performance, and thermal architecture enabling sustained high-energy clamping - making it irreplaceable in certified avionics and mission-critical industrial systems.

Availability

MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive powertrain ECUs, industrial motor drives, and railway signaling systems requiring stable component supply with full DO-160 and IEC 61000-4-x compliance.

Supply support for MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 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 MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD TVS family, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning protection in safety-critical platforms where single-event robustness and thermal stability are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 at its rated peak pulse current?

The MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 193 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 187 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 worst-case transients.

Does MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 require a heatsink for full 36 kW operation?

MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 does not require an external heatsink for single-pulse 36 kW operation when mounted on FR4 with the recommended pad layout, thanks to its low RθJC of 1.0 °C/W. However, for repetitive pulses or sustained thermal loads, PCB copper area or optional heatsinking is necessary to maintain junction temperature below 150°C per the derating curve in Figure 3.

Is MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 qualified to AEC-Q101 standards?

Yes, MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 is explicitly tested and qualified to AEC-Q101 Rev D for discrete semiconductors. This includes stress tests such as high-temperature operating life (HTOL), temperature cycling (TC), and unbiased highly accelerated stress test (UHAST), confirming suitability for automotive under-hood and powertrain applications.

How does the 'CA' suffix in MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 indicate device functionality?

The 'CA' suffix in MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 denotes bidirectional construction - meaning the device provides symmetrical clamping for both positive and negative transients without polarity dependence. This contrasts with 'A' suffix variants, which are unidirectional and feature cathode identification on the metal base.

What is the moisture sensitivity level (MSL) and reflow profile for MAPLAD36KP120CAE3?

MAPLAD36KP120CAE3 is rated MSL Level 1 per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B, meaning it has unlimited floor life and requires no dry packing or baking prior to reflow soldering. Its maximum solder temperature is 260°C for 10 seconds, compatible with standard lead-free reflow profiles.