Microchip Technology MAPLAD36KP160AE3

Overview

MAPLAD36KP160AE3 from Microsemi is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace and automotive systems. It delivers 36,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, features a 160 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps to ≤259 V at 100 A peak pulse current, and meets RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning requirements.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD36KP160AE3 datasheet, MAPLAD36KP160AE3 pinout, MAPLAD36KP160AE3 application, or MAPLAD36KP160AE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1.0 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance, RoHS-compliant e3 matte-tin plating, UL94V-0 void-free epoxy package, and verified compliance with IEC 61000-4-2/4-4/4-5 and RTCA/DO-160F Waveform 4 & 5A pin injection levels.

Technical Context

This TVS diode operates as a clamping device in parallel with sensitive circuitry, activating above its 160 V working standoff voltage to divert transients away from downstream components. Its breakdown voltage range is 178–197 V at 5 mA, with a maximum clamping voltage of 259 V at 100 A IPP under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions.

Thermal design relies on direct metal-base mounting to heatsinks, enabled by its low 1.0 °C/W RθJC and 50 °C/W RθJA (on FR4 with recommended pad layout). It supports secondary lightning protection per IEC 61000-4-5 at 2 Ω, 12 Ω, and 42 Ω source impedances across Class 1–5 severity levels.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD36KP160AE3 uses a surface-mount PLAD package with metal base cathode termination. The device has two terminals: anode (top metallization) and cathode (exposed metal base), requiring thermal pad layout per datasheet Figure "PAD LAYOUT" (A = 0.470", B = 0.230", C = 0.100").

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ160A and SMCJ160A, MAPLAD36KP160AE3 delivers certified 36 kW surge capacity, DO-160F compliance, and thermal performance optimized for metal-base heatsinking-making it the only choice for aviation-grade lightning protection where single-device robustness and repeatable multi-stroke endurance are mandatory.

Availability

MAPLAD36KP160AE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive ECU power protection, and industrial motor drive control requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAPLAD36KP160AE3 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, and industrial markets, with emphasis on radiation-hardened, high-power, and precision timing devices.

The MAPLAD36KP160AE3 belongs to Microsemi's PLAD-series high-power TVS family, engineered specifically for certified lightning and load dump protection in safety-critical platforms where thermal stability and multi-event survivability are non-negotiable.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage specification for MAPLAD36KP160AE3 under standard test conditions?

The MAPLAD36KP160AE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 259 V at 100 A peak pulse current under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured across the device terminals when subjected to the defined surge profile and represents the upper limit of voltage imposed on protected circuitry during a full-rated transient event. The clamping behavior is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range of –55°C to +150°C.

Does MAPLAD36KP160AE3 meet RTCA DO-160F Section 22 lightning requirements?

Yes, MAPLAD36KP160AE3 is explicitly validated for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 multi-stroke lightning testing. Its 36,000 W peak pulse power rating, low thermal resistance (1.0 °C/W), and robust metal-base construction enable it to withstand repeated lightning-induced surges without parameter drift or catastrophic failure. Documentation confirming this compliance is provided in Microsemi Application Note RF01216 Rev B.

What is the correct PCB pad layout for optimal thermal performance of MAPLAD36KP160AE3?

The recommended pad layout for MAPLAD36KP160AE3 specifies a 0.470" × 0.230" (11.94 mm × 5.85 mm) thermal pad with 0.100" (2.44 mm) solder mask opening, per datasheet Figure "PAD LAYOUT". This geometry maximizes copper area for heat conduction from the metal base cathode into the PCB plane or external heatsink, ensuring junction temperature remains within –55°C to +150°C limits during repetitive surge events.

Is MAPLAD36KP160AE3 compatible with lead-free reflow processes?

Yes, MAPLAD36KP160AE3 carries the e3 RoHS-compliant marking and uses annealed matte-tin plating qualified to MIL-STD-750 Method 2026. It supports standard lead-free reflow profiles with peak temperatures up to 260°C for 10 seconds, matching IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B Level 1 moisture sensitivity requirements-no dry-pack or baking is needed prior to assembly.

How does the polarity marking work on MAPLAD36KP160AE3?

MAPLAD36KP160AE3 is a unidirectional TVS diode with cathode polarity assigned to the exposed metal base (bottom side of the package). The top surface contains no polarity marking; instead, the cathode connection is physically defined by the soldered metal base, which must be routed to system ground. This configuration ensures optimal thermal and electrical performance while maintaining clear orientation during automated placement.