Microchip Technology MAPLAD36KP45AE3

Overview

MAPLAD36KP45AE3 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, clamps at ≤72.7 V under 496 A peak current, and features a 45 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), 50.0–55.3 V breakdown voltage (V(BR)), and 1.0 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance. It is qualified to AEC-Q101 and meets RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning requirements.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD36KP45AE3 datasheet, MAPLAD36KP45AE3 pinout, MAPLAD36KP45AE3 application, or MAPLAD36KP45AE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 45 V VWM rating, bidirectional-capable family variants (e.g., MAPLAD36KP45CA), RoHS-compliant e3 plating, low-profile PLAD package with metal-base cathode, and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 secondary lightning protection capability at 42 Ω source impedance.

Technical Context

This TVS diode operates as a clamping device in parallel with sensitive circuitry, activating above its 45 V standoff threshold to divert transients up to 496 A while limiting voltage to ≤72.7 V. Its thermally optimized PLAD package uses a metal baseplate for direct heat sinking, enabling 1.0 °C/W RθJC and stable operation under repetitive surges at ≤0.05% duty factor.

It complies with IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD), IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT), and IEC 61000-4-5 (lightning) standards, and supports RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 (Level 4/5) and Waveform 5A (Level 4/5) pin injection protection-derated per MicroNote 132 for temperature-dependent applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAPLAD36KP45AE3 uses the PLAD surface-mount package: void-free UL94V-0 epoxy body (12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm), metal baseplate cathode, and tin-lead or RoHS-compliant annealed matte-tin terminals. The cathode is the metal base under the body; anode is the top-side metallized pad.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ45A and SMCJ45A, MAPLAD36KP45AE3 provides 24× and 24× higher peak pulse power respectively, certified DO-160F compliance, and 1.0 °C/W thermal resistance-making it uniquely suited for mission-critical aerospace and heavy-duty automotive surge protection where single-event energy and multi-pulse endurance are non-negotiable.

Availability

MAPLAD36KP45AE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aircraft avionics, automotive engine control units, and industrial motor drive systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and certified surge immunity.

Supply support for MAPLAD36KP45AE3 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 semiconductors for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets, with expertise in radiation-hardened ICs, timing solutions, and power protection devices.

The MAPLAD36KP45AE3 belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD TVS family, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning protection in safety-critical platforms where thermal stability, surge repeatability, and regulatory compliance are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MAPLAD36KP45AE3 at its rated peak pulse current?

The MAPLAD36KP45AE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 72.7 V at its peak pulse current (IPP) of 496 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured per Figure 3 in the RF01216 datasheet and ensures protected circuits remain below 80 V during worst-case transients. The clamping performance is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range and validated per AEC-Q101 stress testing protocols.

Is MAPLAD36KP45AE3 suitable for bidirectional transient protection?

No, MAPLAD36KP45AE3 is a unidirectional TVS diode, indicated by the "A" suffix and absence of "CA". For bidirectional protection at 45 V, the correct variant is MAPLAD36KP45CA. Using MAPLAD36KP45AE3 in bidirectional applications would result in forward conduction during negative transients, potentially damaging the device or failing to protect downstream circuitry.

Does MAPLAD36KP45AE3 require special PCB layout considerations?

Yes, MAPLAD36KP45AE3 requires a dedicated thermal pad layout per the datasheet's PAD LAYOUT diagram: a 11.94 mm × 5.85 mm copper area connected to the metal baseplate cathode. This pad must be tied to a large internal or external ground plane to achieve the specified 1.0 °C/W RθJC. Short, wide traces to the anode pad and minimized loop inductance are critical for optimal clamping response during fast transients.

What certifications does MAPLAD36KP45AE3 meet for automotive applications?

MAPLAD36KP45AE3 is qualified to AEC-Q101 for stress testing including HTGB, HTRB, and temperature cycling. It also meets IEC 61000-4-5 (lightning), IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT), and IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD) standards. While not explicitly labeled "automotive grade", its AEC-Q101 qualification and 36 kW pulse rating make it suitable for engine control, battery management, and ADAS power rail protection in harsh environments.

How does the e3 suffix in MAPLAD36KP45AE3 affect assembly and reliability?

The "e3" suffix indicates RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating per J-STD-002 and MIL-STD-750 Method 2026, providing excellent solderability without lead-based alloys. This finish maintains thermal and electrical performance identical to non-RoHS versions, with no impact on clamping speed, PPP rating, or moisture sensitivity-verified as Level 1 per J-STD-020B, eliminating dry-pack requirements and supporting standard reflow profiles.