Microchip Technology MDA3KP15CAE3
- Part No.:
- MDA3KP15CAE3
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- 16-SMD, Gull Wing
- Datasheet:
-
MDA3KP15CAE3.pdf
- Description:
- BI-DIRECTIONAL TVS_16L DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,698
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Product details
Overview
MDA3KP15CAE3 from Microsemi is a bidirectional 3000 W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) array in a surface-mount DO-214AB package, designed for high-reliability secondary lightning and ESD protection. It features a 15 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), 16.7–18.5 V breakdown voltage (V(BR)), 24.4 V maximum clamping voltage at 123 A peak pulse current, and operates from –55 °C to +150 °C - deployed in telecom power interfaces and industrial I/O protection circuits.
For engineers reviewing the MDA3KP15CAE3 datasheet, MDA3KP15CAE3 pinout, MDA3KP15CAE3 application, or MDA3KP15CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional surge capability, IEC61000-4-5 Class 1–4 compliance with 2/12/42 Ω source impedances, RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating, and 100 ps response time - all critical for robust overvoltage hardening in harsh environments.
Technical Context
The MDA3KP15CAE3 is a monolithic, bidirectional TVS array built using silicon avalanche technology, enabling sub-nanosecond response to transients. Its symmetrical clamping behavior supports AC-coupled signal lines and dual-polarity DC rails without polarity concerns.
It delivers 3000 W peak pulse power per IEC61000-4-5 (10/1000 µs waveform) and meets IEC61000-4-2 (ESD) and IEC61000-4-4 (EFT) immunity requirements. Standby leakage is ≤2 µA at 15 V, and thermal derating begins above 25 °C per Figure 3.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15 V - maximum continuous operating voltage before clamping initiates; matches 12 V nominal rail with margin |
| V(BR) min/max | 16.7–18.5 V - guaranteed avalanche onset range at 1 mA; ensures predictable turn-on across temperature |
| VC @ IPP | 24.4 V at 123 A - clamping voltage under full 3 kW surge; limits downstream stress to safe levels |
| PPP | 3000 W @ 10/1000 µs - peak power handling for lightning-induced surges per IEC61000-4-5 |
| ID @ VWM | ≤2 µA - ultra-low leakage preserves battery life and signal integrity in always-on circuits |
| TJ/TSTG | –55 to +150 °C - wide junction/storage range enables deployment in automotive under-hood and industrial control cabinets |
Pinout & Package
MDA3KP15CAE3 uses a DO-214AB (SMC) surface-mount package: void-free UL94V-0 epoxy body, matte-tin-plated terminals, 5 g mass, and polarity marked by dot indicating Pin 1 (cathode for unidirectional variants; symmetrical for bidirectional).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pin 1 | Anode (Bidirectional Terminal A) | One side of symmetrical avalanche junction; connects to protected line (e.g., RS-485 A) |
| Pin 2 | Cathode (Bidirectional Terminal B) | Other side of symmetrical junction; connects to protected line (e.g., RS-485 B) or ground reference |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional construction | Enables protection of AC signals or differential buses (e.g., CAN, RS-485) without polarity constraints |
| 3000 W peak pulse power | Withstands IEC61000-4-5 42 Ω source impedance Class 4 surges (4 kV) without failure |
| 100 ps response time | Clamps ESD events before system ICs experience damaging voltage overshoot |
| MIL-PRF-19500 screening option | Supports high-reliability aerospace/defense programs requiring lot traceability and 3σ ID screening |
| Moisture sensitivity Level 1 | Eliminates dry-pack requirement and floor-life limitations during SMT assembly |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Analog I/O Protection | Telecom Power Feed Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 4–20 mA current-loop inputs against induced surges from nearby motor switching or lightning coupling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed across input terminals to clamp common-mode transients before they reach precision ADC front-end. Use Value: Limits clamping voltage to 24.4 V, preserving ±24 V input stage headroom while surviving repeated 3 kW surges. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding -48 V DC telecom power feeds entering remote radio units against lightning-induced longitudinal surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Installed between feed pair and chassis ground to shunt differential-mode energy while maintaining isolation integrity. Use Value: Handles 123 A peak current at 24.4 V clamping, preventing fuse blowout and ensuring uninterrupted service during storm events. |
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) LIN Bus | Medical Patient Monitor ECG Lead Interface |
Use Scenario: Shielding LIN bus nodes from load-dump and jump-start transients in 12 V vehicle electrical systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Placed on LIN data line to ground, suppressing fast-rising spikes without distorting low-speed (20 kbps) signaling. Use Value: Sub-100 ps response ensures clamping occurs within first 10% of LIN bit period, avoiding communication errors. | Use Scenario: Protecting high-impedance ECG electrode inputs from ESD discharge during patient handling or equipment connection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mounted directly at connector pins to intercept human-body-model (HBM) discharges before reaching instrumentation amplifier. Use Value: 2 µA standby leakage prevents DC offset drift in microvolt-level biopotential measurements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ15CA | 600 W PPP rating, same VWM and bidirectional configuration, DO-214AA package | Limited to Class 2 lightning per IEC61000-4-5; insufficient for 42 Ω Class 4 | Select when surge threat level is lower and board space is constrained |
| 1.5KE15CA | 3000 W PPP but axial-leaded DO-15 package, higher parasitic inductance (~10 nH vs. <3 nH) | Not suitable for high-frequency ESD or fast-rising transients due to slower effective response | Choose only for through-hole legacy designs where rework is prohibitive |
Compared with SMBJ15CA and 1.5KE15CA, MDA3KP15CAE3 uniquely combines 3000 W capability with surface-mount DO-214AB geometry and sub-100 ps response - making it the only option among the three qualified for Class 4 secondary lightning protection in space-constrained, high-speed industrial interfaces.
Availability
MDA3KP15CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC analog I/O protection, telecom power feed interface hardening, and automotive BCM LIN bus surge suppression requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for MDA3KP15CAE3 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 components for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The MDA3KP series was developed to deliver military-grade transient suppression in commercial surface-mount form factors - targeting applications where MIL-PRF-19500 screening, wide temperature operation, and repeatable 3 kW surge performance are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MDA3KP15CAE3 at its rated peak pulse current?
The MDA3KP15CAE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 24.4 V at its rated peak pulse current (IPP) of 123 A under 10/1000 µs waveform conditions. This value is measured per standard test methods defined in the datasheet and ensures downstream circuitry remains below destructive voltage thresholds during surge events. The MDA3KP15CAE3 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is MDA3KP15CAE3 RoHS compliant?
Yes, MDA3KP15CAE3 is RoHS compliant, as indicated by the "e3" suffix in its part number. It features annealed matte-tin plating on terminals and meets lead-free soldering requirements up to 260 °C for 10 seconds. The device carries no exemptions and conforms fully to Directive 2011/65/EU, verified through material declarations and process controls documented by Microsemi.
How does the bidirectional configuration of MDA3KP15CAE3 affect its use in differential signal lines?
The bidirectional configuration of MDA3KP15CAE3 allows symmetric clamping across both polarities of a differential pair - essential for protecting RS-485, CAN, or LVDS lines without introducing DC bias or signal distortion. Unlike unidirectional TVS devices, MDA3KP15CAE3 responds identically to positive or negative transients, eliminating the need for dual-device placement and simplifying layout. This symmetry is intrinsic to its monolithic structure.
Can MDA3KP15CAE3 be used for IEC61000-4-5 Class 4 lightning protection?
Yes, MDA3KP15CAE3 is explicitly rated for IEC61000-4-5 Class 4 secondary lightning protection when tested with a 42 Ω source impedance, delivering full 3000 W surge capability. The datasheet confirms Class 1–4 coverage for MDA3KPxxCA variants under 42 Ω, and MDA3KP15CAE3's 24.4 V clamping at 123 A ensures protected circuits remain within safe operating area during 4 kV tests. Derating applies above 25 °C per Figure 3.
What is the standoff voltage rating and how does it relate to system design?
The MDA3KP15CAE3 has a reverse standoff voltage (VWM) of 15 V - the maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage that can be applied without triggering conduction. In system design, VWM must exceed the peak operating voltage of the protected line (e.g., 12 V nominal rail + tolerance). Selecting MDA3KP15CAE3 for a 15 V rail provides minimal margin; for 24 V systems, MDA3KP24CAE3 would be appropriate. Exceeding VWM risks premature leakage or thermal runaway.
MDA3KP15CAE3 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package/Case:
- 16-SMD, Gull Wing
- Series:
- MDA
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 8
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 15V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 24.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 123A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 3000W (3kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- -
MDA3KP15CAE3 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MDA3KP15CAE3 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MDA3KP15CAE3 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MDA3KP15CAE3 reliable?
The price and inventory of MDA3KP15CAE3 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MDA3KP15CAE3 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MDA3KP15CAE3?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MDA3KP15CAE3 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MDA3KP15CAE3?
MDA3KP15CAE3 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MDA3KP15CAE3 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MDA3KP15CAE3?
For technical support, including MDA3KP15CAE3 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MDA3KP15CAE3 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MDA3KP15CAE3 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MDA3KP15CAE3 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MDA3KP15CAE3 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MDA3KP15CAE3?
All MDA3KP15CAE3 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MDA3KP15CAE3, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MDA3KP15CAE3 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MDA3KP15CAE3:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MDA3KP15CAE3 Tags

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onsemi

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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onsemi

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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onsemi

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Nexperia USA Inc.

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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