Microchip Technology MDA3KP18CAE3

Overview

MDA3KP18CAE3 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 18 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), 20.0–22.1 V breakdown voltage (V(BR)), 29.2 V maximum clamping voltage at 102.8 A peak pulse current, and operates from −55 °C to +150 °C.

For engineers reviewing the MDA3KP18CAE3 datasheet, MDA3KP18CAE3 pinout, MDA3KP18CAE3 application, or MDA3KP18CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include IEC61000-4-5 Class 1–4 compliance with 2–42 Ω source impedance, bidirectional polarity, RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating, and 100 ps response time under zero-bias conditions.

Technical Context

The MDA3KP18CAE3 is a silicon avalanche diode-based TVS array optimized for fast transient suppression in power and signal lines. Its bidirectional construction enables symmetrical clamping on both polarities without external biasing, and its 10/1000 μs waveform rating of 3000 W supports robust surge handling per IEC61000-4-5.

It delivers sub-100 ps response time from 0 V to V(BR) min, low standby leakage (<2 μA at 18 V), and full surge testing per lot. The device meets MIL-PRF-19500 screening options and exhibits Level 1 moisture sensitivity per J-STD-020B-no dry pack required.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MDA3KP18CAE3 uses a DO-214AB (SMC) plastic package with void-free UL94V-0 epoxy body, matte-tin-plated terminals, and polarity defined by a dot marking indicating Pin 1 (cathode for unidirectional variants; symmetric bidirectional configuration here). Weight ≈5 g.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ18CA and 1.5KE18CA, the MDA3KP18CAE3 delivers double the surge energy handling of the former and enables automated SMT placement unlike the latter-making it optimal for new industrial and telecom designs requiring Class 4 immunity and production scalability.

Availability

MDA3KP18CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor drives, telecom power feeds, medical imaging interfaces, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and high-surge environments.

Supply support for MDA3KP18CAE3 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 and mixed-signal ICs, RF solutions, and discrete protection devices.

The MDA3KP series was developed for mission-critical surge protection in aerospace, defense, and industrial systems where failure is not an option-emphasizing lot traceability, MIL-spec screening, and validated 3000 W transient performance.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MDA3KP18CAE3 at its rated peak pulse current?

The MDA3KP18CAE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 29.2 V at its rated peak pulse current (IPP) of 102.8 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured per Figure 2 in the official datasheet and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case surge events. The MDA3KP18CAE3 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.

Is MDA3KP18CAE3 suitable for IEC61000-4-5 Class 4 secondary lightning protection?

Yes, the MDA3KP18CAE3 is explicitly rated for IEC61000-4-5 Class 4 secondary lightning protection when tested with a 42 Ω source impedance, as confirmed in the Applications/Benefits section of the RF01243 datasheet. Its 3000 W peak pulse power rating and 29.2 V clamping voltage ensure compliance with the 4 kV test level. The MDA3KP18CAE3 must be used with appropriate PCB layout practices-including short traces and low-inductance grounding-to maintain Class 4 performance.

What does the 'C' and 'E3' suffix mean in MDA3KP18CAE3?

In MDA3KP18CAE3, the 'C' suffix denotes bidirectional polarity, enabling symmetrical clamping for both positive and negative transients. The 'E3' suffix indicates RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating per JEDEC J-STD-609, verified by Microsemi's internal conformance testing. These markings are defined in the Part Nomenclature section of RF01243 Rev B and directly impact assembly compatibility and environmental compliance-critical for MDA3KP18CAE3 deployment in EU and global markets.

Does MDA3KP18CAE3 require baking before reflow soldering?

No, the MDA3KP18CAE3 does not require baking prior to reflow soldering. It is rated Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B, meaning it can be stored indefinitely at ambient conditions and placed directly into standard lead-free reflow profiles without preconditioning. This eliminates bake steps, reduces process risk, and improves throughput-key advantages of the MDA3KP18CAE3 in high-volume SMT lines.

How does MDA3KP18CAE3 differ from unidirectional MDA3KP18AE3?

The MDA3KP18CAE3 is bidirectional, while MDA3KP18AE3 is unidirectional. This means MDA3KP18CAE3 clamps transients of either polarity across its two terminals, making it ideal for AC lines or floating DC buses. In contrast, MDA3KP18AE3 only clamps positive-going transients relative to its cathode and requires correct orientation. Both share identical VWM (18 V), PPP (3000 W), and package (DO-214AB), but polarity dictates circuit integration-so MDA3KP18CAE3 offers greater flexibility in layout-sensitive applications.