Microchip Technology MAPLAD36KP60AE3

Overview

MAPLAD36KP60AE3 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 kW peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps at ≤96.8 V under 372 A peak impulse current, and operates with 60 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM). Its low-profile thermoset epoxy package minimizes thermal resistance and supports RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning compliance.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD36KP60AE3 datasheet, MAPLAD36KP60AE3 pinout, MAPLAD36KP60AE3 application, or MAPLAD36KP60AE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 60 V VWM rating, 96.8 V max clamping voltage at 372 A, 1.0 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance, RoHS-compliant e3 plating, and suitability for secondary lightning protection per IEC 61000-4-5 with 42 Ω source impedance up to Class 5.

Technical Context

This TVS diode uses an avalanche breakdown mechanism to clamp transients, with breakdown voltage V(BR) specified at 66.7–73.7 V under 5 mA test current. Its unidirectional polarity places the cathode on the metal base (package bottom), enabling direct thermal coupling to PCB copper or heatsinks.

It meets AEC-Q101 stress testing requirements and supports MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening options. Clamping response time is <100 ps, and it provides ESD immunity per IEC 61000-4-2 and EFT protection per IEC 61000-4-4, with validated performance against RTCA/DO-160F Waveform 4 (Level 4/5) and Waveform 5A (Level 4/5).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD36KP60AE3 uses a surface-mount PLAD package with two terminals: anode and cathode. The cathode is the metal base (bottom side), requiring thermal pad connection to PCB ground plane or heatsink for optimal thermal performance. Package dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H), with void-free UL94V-0 epoxy body.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ60A and SMCJ60A, MAPLAD36KP60AE3 delivers 24–60× higher peak pulse power, 35× lower thermal resistance, and full qualification to RTCA DO-160F and AEC-Q101 - making it the only option for mission-critical surge protection where single-event reliability and multi-stroke endurance are mandatory.

Availability

MAPLAD36KP60AE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive ECU power conditioning, and industrial motor drive DC link protection requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAPLAD36KP60AE3 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 radiation-hardened ICs for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The PLAD-series TVS family was engineered specifically for high-energy, high-reliability transient suppression in safety-critical platforms where multi-stroke lightning resilience and AEC-Q101 conformance are non-negotiable design requirements.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MAPLAD36KP60AE3 at its rated peak pulse current?

The MAPLAD36KP60AE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 96.8 V at its rated peak pulse current of 372 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed per datasheet Figure 3 and ensures protected circuits remain below critical voltage thresholds during worst-case surge events. The MAPLAD36KP60AE3 achieves this while maintaining <100 ps response time, making it suitable for protecting sensitive avionics interfaces.

Is MAPLAD36KP60AE3 suitable for bidirectional surge protection applications?

No - MAPLAD36KP60AE3 is a unidirectional TVS diode, with cathode assigned to the metal base. For bidirectional protection, the functionally equivalent part is MAPLAD36KP60CA. Using MAPLAD36KP60AE3 in AC-coupled or floating signal paths would result in forward conduction during negative transients, potentially damaging the device or downstream circuitry. Always verify polarity alignment in schematic capture before placing MAPLAD36KP60AE3.

Does MAPLAD36KP60AE3 require a heatsink for reliable operation?

MAPLAD36KP60AE3 does not require an external heatsink when mounted on a minimum 1.5-inch² copper pad per the recommended pad layout (Ref. A=0.470", B=0.230"). Its 1.0 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance allows full 36 kW pulse dissipation into PCB copper alone. However, for repetitive surge duty cycles (>0.05% duty factor), additional thermal vias or internal layer copper pours are recommended to maintain junction temperature below 150°C.

What standards does MAPLAD36KP60AE3 comply with for lightning protection?

MAPLAD36KP60AE3 is validated for RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning testing and meets IEC 61000-4-5 secondary lightning protection up to Class 5 with 42 Ω source impedance. It also satisfies ESD immunity per IEC 61000-4-2 (±15 kV air, ±8 kV contact) and electrical fast transient (EFT) immunity per IEC 61000-4-4 (4 kV). These certifications are documented in Microsemi's RF01216 Rev B datasheet and supporting MicroNotes.

How does the e3 suffix in MAPLAD36KP60AE3 affect assembly processes?

The e3 suffix in MAPLAD36KP60AE3 indicates RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating, fully compatible with standard lead-free reflow profiles (peak 260°C for 10 seconds). Its Level 1 moisture sensitivity eliminates pre-bake requirements, and the tin finish ensures robust solder joint formation per MIL-STD-750 Method 2026. No process changes are needed versus legacy tin-lead variants - only standard J-STD-020-compliant reflow is required.