Microchip Technology MAPLAD36KP26CA

Overview

MAPLAD36KP26CA from Microsemi is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace and automotive systems. It delivers 36 kW peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, features a 26 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps to ≤43.0 V at 838 A peak impulse current, and operates across –55°C to +150°C junction temperature. It is qualified to AEC-Q101 and meets RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning requirements.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD36KP26CA datasheet, MAPLAD36KP26CA pinout, MAPLAD36KP26CA application, or MAPLAD36KP26CA equivalent, this device serves as a high-reliability, RoHS-compliant secondary lightning protector for avionics power rails, engine control units, and DC bus interfaces where low thermal resistance and repeatable multi-pulse performance are critical.

Technical Context

The MAPLAD36KP26CA employs an avalanche breakdown structure optimized for fast response (<5 ns clamping time) and stable voltage regulation under repetitive transients. Its metal-base package provides direct thermal path to PCB copper, achieving 1.0°C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance when mounted per recommended pad layout.

It supports bidirectional suppression with symmetrical breakdown (28.9–31.9 V @ 5 mA), complies with IEC 61000-4-5 (Class 3, 42 Ω source), IEC 61000-4-2/4-4, and RTCA/DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 (6.4/69 μs) and Waveform 5A Level 4 (40/120 μs) up to 78 V standoff - all verified per test conditions in RF01216 Rev B.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD36KP26CA uses a surface-mount PLAD package with two terminals: cathode (metal base) and anode (top-side metallization). The metal base serves as the primary thermal and electrical path for the cathode connection, requiring direct soldering to a large copper thermal pad per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B Level 1 moisture sensitivity guidelines.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMAJ26CA and V26CH8, the MAPLAD36KP26CA uniquely combines DO-160F Section 22 compliance, AEC-Q101 qualification, bidirectional symmetry, and 1.0 °C/W thermal resistance in a surface-mount PLAD package - making it the sole option for high-reliability, thermally constrained, multi-stroke surge environments.

Availability

MAPLAD36KP26CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for avionics power distribution, automotive engine control units, railway signaling interfaces, and industrial DC motor drive inputs requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAPLAD36KP26CA 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 (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 MAPLAD36KP26CA belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD TVS family, engineered specifically for mission-critical surge protection in environments demanding multi-stroke lightning resilience, thermal stability, and long-term parametric consistency.

FAQ

What is the maximum clamping voltage of the MAPLAD36KP26CA at its rated peak pulse current?

The MAPLAD36KP26CA has a maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of 43.0 V at its rated peak impulse current of 838 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured per Figure 3 in RF01216 Rev B and ensures downstream 24 V system components remain within safe operating voltage margins during surge events. The MAPLAD36KP26CA maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.

Is the MAPLAD36KP26CA suitable for automotive applications requiring AEC-Q101 qualification?

Yes, the MAPLAD36KP26CA is explicitly tested and qualified to AEC-Q101 standards, as confirmed in the RF01216 Rev B datasheet. It is rated for automotive under-hood environments with operating temperatures from –55°C to +150°C and has passed surge, HTRB, and temperature cycling tests. The MAPLAD36KP26CA is approved for use in engine control units, battery management systems, and ADAS power supplies.

How does the PLAD package of the MAPLAD36KP26CA improve thermal performance compared to standard SMC packages?

The MAPLAD36KP26CA's PLAD package features a metal base that serves as both cathode terminal and primary thermal conduction path, achieving a junction-to-case thermal resistance of just 1.0 °C/W - over 50% lower than typical SMC-packaged TVS diodes. This allows the MAPLAD36KP26CA to dissipate 36 kW surges more efficiently when soldered to a large copper pad, supporting higher repetition rates in demanding applications like avionics lightning testing.

Does the MAPLAD36KP26CA meet RTCA DO-160F Section 22 lightning protection requirements?

Yes, the MAPLAD36KP26CA is specifically designed and validated for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 multi-stroke lightning testing. It achieves Level 4 protection for Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) and Level 4 for Waveform 5A (40/120 μs) at 26 V standoff, as documented in RF01216 Rev B. The MAPLAD36KP26CA's low clamping voltage and fast response make it suitable for flight-critical avionics power rails.

What is the moisture sensitivity level (MSL) and reflow profile for the MAPLAD36KP26CA?

The MAPLAD36KP26CA is rated MSL Level 1 per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B, meaning it requires no dry pack storage or baking prior to assembly. Its maximum solder temperature is 260°C for 10 seconds, compatible with standard lead-free reflow profiles. The MAPLAD36KP26CA's void-free UL94V-0 epoxy body ensures mechanical integrity through multiple thermal cycles without delamination.