Microchip Technology MAPLAD36KP48CAE3

Overview

MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 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 at ≤77.4 V under 466 A peak impulse current, and features a 48 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (53.3–58.9 V). It meets RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning requirements and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 secondary lightning protection with 42 Ω source impedance.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 datasheet, MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 pinout, MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 application, or MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, low thermal resistance (RθJC = 1.0 °C/W), RoHS-compliant e3 plating, 100 ps response time, and suitability for pin-injection protection per RTCA/DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4.

Technical Context

This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamping protector in parallel with sensitive circuitry, activating when transient voltage exceeds its 48 V standoff threshold. Its silicon avalanche structure enables sub-100 ps response and stable clamping across temperature (αV(BR) = 54 mV/°C).

Designed for high-reliability mounting on FR4 PCBs with specified pad layout, it sustains 36 kW surges at ≤0.05% duty factor and supports steady-state dissipation up to 2.5 W at 25°C ambient - derated linearly to 71 W at 100°C case temperature via heatsink coupling.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 uses a PLAD surface-mount package with two terminals: anode and cathode. The metal base serves as the cathode for unidirectional variants; for bidirectional devices like MAPLAD36KP48CAE3, both terminals are symmetrical and non-polarized. Thermal performance relies on soldering the metal base directly to a large copper pour or heatsink pad per recommended 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 SP3052-048HTG and SMAJ48CA, MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 provides 12× higher peak pulse power and qualified upscreening paths - making it uniquely fit for primary lightning protection in certified avionics, where single-point failure avoidance and traceable lot testing are mandatory.

Availability

MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive powertrain electronics, industrial motor drives, and railway signaling systems requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 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 ICs, timing devices, and power protection components.

MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 belongs to Microsemi's PLAD-series high-power TVS family, engineered specifically for primary-level lightning and load-dump surge suppression in safety-critical platforms where failure is not an option.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage specification for MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 under peak surge conditions?

The MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 77.4 V at 466 A peak pulse current (IPP) under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed across temperature and represents the upper limit of voltage seen by downstream circuitry during worst-case transients - critical for ensuring safe operation of 48 V-rated ICs and power modules.

Does MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 require heatsinking for reliable operation?

Yes - while MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 achieves RθJC = 1.0 °C/W, its 36 kW surge rating demands effective thermal management. Reliable operation requires mounting the metal base onto a minimum 1.0"² copper pour (2 oz Cu) or dedicated heatsink per the documented pad layout. Without this, junction temperature can exceed 150°C during repeated surges, risking parametric shift or failure.

Is MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 compliant with RTCA DO-160F Section 22 lightning testing?

Yes - MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 is explicitly rated for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 multi-stroke lightning testing. It meets Level 4 pin-injection protection for Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) and supports full compliance when integrated with proper PCB layout and grounding per Microsemi MicroNote 132 and RF01216 design guidelines.

How does the bidirectional construction of MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 affect its circuit placement?

The bidirectional construction of MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 eliminates polarity constraints - it can be placed across any two nodes without regard to voltage sign. This simplifies layout in AC-coupled interfaces, differential buses, or floating grounds, and avoids risk of reverse installation errors common with unidirectional TVS diodes like MAPLAD36KP48AE3.

What screening options are available for MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 in high-reliability programs?

MAPLAD36KP48CAE3 supports MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening to M, MA, MX, and MXL reliability levels, including lot traceability, 3σ standby current screening, and conformance inspections. These options are documented in the Hirel Non-Hermetic Product Portfolio brochure and require factory coordination - they are not included in standard commercial shipments.