Microchip Technology MAPLAD36KP180A

Overview

MAPLAD36KP180A from Microsemi is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace and automotive power systems. It delivers 36,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps transients to ≤291 V at 124 A peak impulse current, and features a 180 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with 200–221 V breakdown voltage (V(BR)). It meets RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning requirements and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4 secondary lightning protection with 42 Ω source impedance.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD36KP180A datasheet, MAPLAD36KP180A pinout, MAPLAD36KP180A application, or MAPLAD36KP180A equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability DC bus protection where precise VWM alignment with 180 V nominal system voltage, low thermal resistance (1.0 °C/W junction-to-case), and verified surge robustness under repeated lightning transients are critical design requirements.

Technical Context

The MAPLAD36KP180A employs an avalanche diode structure optimized for fast response (<100 ps rise time) and stable clamping under high-current, long-duration transients. Its void-free thermosetting epoxy package enables direct metal-base thermal conduction to PCB copper or heatsink, supporting sustained energy dissipation without thermal runaway.

It operates within -55°C to +150°C junction temperature range and is rated per AEC-Q101 for automotive applications. Standby leakage current is ≤10 μA at 180 V, and forward clamping voltage is 4.0 V at 500 A, enabling effective protection of downstream MOSFET gates and control ICs during bidirectional fault conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD36KP180A uses a surface-mount PLAD package with two terminals: anode and cathode. The cathode is the metal base (bottom side) of the device, requiring direct thermal contact with a large copper pad for optimal heat dissipation. Package dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H), with recommended pad layout per RF01216 Rev B.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMAJ180A and VMM180, MAPLAD36KP180A provides 90× higher peak pulse power, certified multi-stroke lightning endurance, and superior thermal management - making it the only option among the three qualified for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 Level 4 and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4 with 42 Ω source impedance.

Availability

MAPLAD36KP180A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aircraft power distribution, automotive 48 V hybrid systems, and industrial 180 V motor drives requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MAPLAD36KP180A 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 power management solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The MAPLAD36KP180A belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD-series TVS family, engineered specifically for lightning and load-dump protection in mission-critical 100–400 V DC systems where thermal robustness and multi-event survivability are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum clamping voltage of the MAPLAD36KP180A under standard test conditions?

The MAPLAD36KP180A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 291 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 124 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured at the device terminals and ensures protected circuits remain below critical overvoltage thresholds during surge events. The clamping performance is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range of -55°C to +150°C.

Is the MAPLAD36KP180A RoHS compliant and what plating does it use?

Yes, the MAPLAD36KP180A is RoHS compliant (designated by "e3" suffix in nomenclature) and uses annealed matte-tin plating on its terminals, which meets MIL-STD-750 Method 2026 for solderability. This plating ensures reliable wetting during lead-free reflow processes and maintains corrosion resistance over the device's operational lifetime. The body material is UL94V-0 rated void-free thermosetting epoxy.

How does the thermal design of the MAPLAD36KP180A differ from standard SMD TVS diodes?

The MAPLAD36KP180A features a metal-base construction where the cathode serves as the primary thermal path, achieving a junction-to-case thermal resistance of just 1.0 °C/W. Unlike conventional SMD TVS devices that rely on PCB traces for heat dissipation, this design requires direct soldering of the metal base to a large copper pad or heatsink - enabling >70% of surge energy to conduct away from the silicon junction and preventing thermal runaway during repeated 36 kW surges.

Does the MAPLAD36KP180A meet AEC-Q101 qualification requirements?

Yes, the MAPLAD36KP180A is tested and qualified to AEC-Q101 standards for discrete semiconductors, covering stress tests including HTGB, HTRB, TST, and surge. This qualification confirms its suitability for automotive applications such as 48 V mild hybrid power systems. Full test reports and lot traceability documentation are available upon request for MAPLAD36KP180A production lots.

Can the MAPLAD36KP180A be used for bidirectional transient suppression?

No - the MAPLAD36KP180A is unidirectional. For bidirectional protection at 180 V standoff, the designated variant is MAPLAD36KP180CA (note the "CA" suffix). The CA version provides symmetrical clamping for AC-coupled signals or floating rails, whereas MAPLAD36KP180A is intended for DC bus protection where polarity is fixed and only reverse-polarity surges must be suppressed.