Microchip Technology MAPLAD36KP45CAE3

Overview

MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 from Microsemi is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace and automotive systems. It delivers 36,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps transients to ≤72.7 V at 496 A, and features a 45 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), 50–55.3 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-160F Level 5 pin injection for Waveform 4.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 datasheet, MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 pinout, MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 application, or MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, 45 V VWM rating, low 1.0 °C/W RθJC, RoHS-compliant e3 plating, and compliance with IEC 61000-4-5 (Class 5, 42 Ω source) and RTCA DO-160F lightning standards.

Technical Context

This device operates as a silicon avalanche diode-based TVS, leveraging controlled avalanche breakdown to clamp fast-rising transients. Its bidirectional construction enables symmetrical clamping for AC-coupled or floating signal lines, and its low RθJC (1.0 °C/W) supports high-repetition-rate surge handling when mounted on thermally optimized PCB pads per recommended layout.

It is characterized for operation across –55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature, with standby current ID ≤10 μA at 45 V VWM and temperature coefficient αV(BR) = 51 mV/°C. Surge testing follows IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD), IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT), and IEC 61000-4-5 (lightning) with defined source impedances (2 Ω, 12 Ω, 42 Ω).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 uses the PLAD surface-mount package: void-free UL94V-0 epoxy body (12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm max), matte-tin (e3) RoHS-compliant plating, and metal base cathode connection. Bidirectional symmetry means both terminals are electrically identical; no anode/cathode distinction applies.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ45CA and SMCJ45CA, MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 provides 24× higher peak power handling, 2.5× lower thermal resistance, and formal qualification for aviation lightning standards-making it the sole option for certified multi-stroke surge environments.

Availability

MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive powertrain systems, and industrial motor drive designs requiring stable component supply with long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 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 MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD TVS family, engineered specifically for certified lightning and load-dump protection in safety-critical platforms where multi-stroke endurance and thermal stability are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 at its rated peak pulse current?

The MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 72.7 V at 496 A peak pulse current (IPP) under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured per IEC 61000-4-5 test methodology and guarantees downstream circuit protection when the device conducts its full rated surge current. The clamping performance is validated across the full operating temperature range.

Is MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its reliability for automotive powertrain and chassis applications. It meets stress tests including high-temperature reverse bias, temperature cycling, and surge endurance. Its 45 V VWM and 72.7 V clamping align with 24 V system load dump profiles, and its e3 RoHS plating ensures compatibility with modern automotive assembly processes.

Does MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 require a heatsink for standard operation?

MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 does not require an external heatsink for single-event surge suppression, but its 1.0 °C/W RθJC rating assumes mounting on a minimum 11.94 mm × 5.85 mm copper pad per the recommended layout. For repetitive surges (>0.05% duty cycle), direct thermal coupling to a board-level heatsink or internal copper plane is necessary to maintain junction temperature below 150 °C. The metal base terminal serves as the primary thermal path.

How does the CA suffix in MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 indicate device functionality?

The "CA" suffix in MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 explicitly denotes bidirectional construction, meaning the device provides symmetrical clamping for both positive and negative transients. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., MAPLAD36KP45AE3), this version has no polarity marking and can be placed in either orientation on the PCB-ideal for protecting AC-coupled buses, differential signals, or floating grounds where voltage polarity reversal may occur.

What standards does MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 meet for lightning protection?

MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 meets RTCA DO-160F Section 22 Level 5 for pin injection (Waveform 4, 6.4/69 μs) and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 with 42 Ω source impedance for secondary lightning protection. It also complies with IEC 61000-4-2 (±8 kV contact/±15 kV air ESD) and IEC 61000-4-4 (40 A EFT). These certifications are verified per the RF01216 Rev B datasheet and apply directly to the MAPLAD36KP45CAE3 variant.