Microchip Technology MAPLAD36KP85CAE3

Overview

MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 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 85 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps to ≤137 V at 263 A peak pulse current (IPP), and operates across –55°C to +150°C. It is qualified to AEC-Q101 and meets RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4 (42 Ω source) requirements.

For engineers reviewing the MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 datasheet, MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 pinout, MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 application, or MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, 85 V working voltage alignment with 78–90 V nominal bus systems, low thermal resistance (RθJC = 1.0 °C/W), and compliance with aircraft lightning standards including multi-stroke DO-160 Section 22.

Technical Context

This TVS diode uses silicon avalanche junction technology optimized for fast response (<5 ns clamping time) and high cumulative energy handling. Its metal-base package enables direct thermal coupling to PCB copper or heatsink, supporting sustained surge duty cycles ≤0.05% per MIL-STD-750 test conditions.

The device is characterized for bidirectional operation with symmetrical breakdown (94.4–104.0 V @ 5 mA), maximum clamping voltage of 137 V at 263 A, and temperature coefficient of breakdown voltage αV(BR) = 104 mV/°C - enabling predictable derating over –55°C to +150°C junction range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 uses a PLAD (Plastic Leaded Anode/Cathode) surface-mount package with metal base thermal path. The device has two terminals: anode and cathode - both accessible via the top-side leads, while the cathode is also connected to the exposed metal base (case) for enhanced thermal dissipation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SP3022-08UTG and SMAJ85CA, MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 delivers 90× higher peak power, certified multi-stroke lightning resilience, and metal-base thermal performance - making it the only viable option for aviation-grade 85 V bus protection where failure is not an option.

Availability

MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for avionics power distribution, automotive load dump protection, and industrial motor drive inputs requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 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, RF, and timing solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD TVS family, engineered specifically for mission-critical surge protection in aircraft, rail, and heavy-duty automotive systems where multi-stroke lightning resilience and thermal robustness are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 at its rated peak pulse current?

The MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 137 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 263 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured per Figure 3 in the RF01216 datasheet and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case surge events. The clamping performance remains stable across –55°C to +150°C due to controlled temperature coefficient (αV(BR) = 104 mV/°C).

Is MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 suitable for bidirectional AC signal line protection?

Yes, MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 is explicitly designed as a bidirectional TVS diode, indicated by the "CA" suffix in its nomenclature. Its symmetrical breakdown voltage range (94.4–104.0 V) and matched clamping behavior in both polarities make it appropriate for protecting AC-coupled or floating differential interfaces such as RS-485, CAN FD, or analog sensor inputs - provided the peak AC voltage remains below 85 V VWM.

Does MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 require a heatsink for standard operation?

No external heatsink is required for MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 under single-pulse or low-duty-cycle surge conditions, thanks to its 1.0 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance and metal-base construction. However, for repeated surges at ≥0.05% duty factor, thermal design must follow the derating curve in Figure 3 of RF01216, using the recommended FR4 pad layout to maximize copper area and minimize RθJA.

What does the "e3" suffix signify in MAPLAD36KP85CAE3?

"e3" denotes RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating on the leads and metal base of MAPLAD36KP85CAE3, conforming to JEDEC J-STD-020B moisture sensitivity level 1 (no dry pack required). This finish ensures reliable solderability per MIL-STD-750 Method 2026 and eliminates lead content for compliance with EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and related aerospace environmental mandates.

How is MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 validated for RTCA DO-160F compliance?

MAPLAD36KP85CAE3 is validated for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 multi-stroke lightning testing per Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) Level 4, as confirmed in the RF01216 datasheet. This certification requires passing 100+ surge strokes at rated energy without parameter shift or catastrophic failure - a requirement met through wafer-level lot traceability, 3σ screening on standby current (ID), and full surge testing per AEC-Q101 protocols.