Microchip Technology MDA3KP26CAE3

Overview

MDA3KP26CAE3 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 26 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), 28.9–31.9 V breakdown voltage (V(BR)), 42.1 V maximum clamping voltage at 71.2 A peak pulse current, and operates from –55 °C to +150 °C.

For engineers reviewing the MDA3KP26CAE3 datasheet, MDA3KP26CAE3 pinout, MDA3KP26CAE3 application, or MDA3KP26CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include IEC61000-4-5 Class 1–4 compliance with 42 Ω/12 Ω/2 Ω source impedances, <5 ns response time, RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating, and MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening eligibility.

Technical Context

This TVS array uses silicon avalanche diode technology to clamp transient overvoltages before they damage downstream circuitry. Its bidirectional construction enables symmetrical clamping for AC-coupled or floating signal lines, and its 10/1000 µs surge rating of 3000 W meets industrial and telecom surge immunity requirements.

The device exhibits <5 ns response time from 0 V to V(BR) min, supports 26 V working voltage with 42.1 V clamping at 71.2 A, and maintains stable performance across –55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature range. Standby leakage is ≤2 µA at VWM, ensuring minimal power loss in standby systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MDA3KP26CAE3 is housed in a DO-214AB (SMC) surface-mount package with two terminals. Polarity is defined by a dot marking indicating Pin 1 (cathode for unidirectional variants); for this bidirectional part, both terminals are functionally symmetric.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ26CA and 1.5KE27CA, the MDA3KP26CAE3 delivers double the surge energy capacity of the SMBJ series and superior thermal performance versus axial-leaded alternatives-critical for sustained surge exposure in industrial power supplies and telecom infrastructure.

Availability

MDA3KP26CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor drives, telecom power feeds, automotive body control modules, and RS-485 data lines requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MDA3KP26CAE3 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 components for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

The MDA3KP series was developed specifically for mission-critical surge protection in environments demanding MIL-PRF-19500 conformance, wide temperature operation, and repeatable 3000 W transient handling-targeting telecom central offices, railway signaling, and avionics power conditioning.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MDA3KP26CAE3 at its rated peak pulse current?

The MDA3KP26CAE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 42.1 V at its rated peak pulse current (IPP) of 71.2 A under 10/1000 µs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range and ensures downstream components experience no more than 42.1 V during worst-case surge events. The MDA3KP26CAE3 achieves this while maintaining low leakage and fast response.

Is MDA3KP26CAE3 suitable for IEC61000-4-5 Class 4 testing?

Yes, the MDA3KP26CAE3 is validated for IEC61000-4-5 Class 4 testing with a 42 Ω source impedance, delivering full 3000 W surge capability. It also supports Class 1–3 with 12 Ω and Class 2–4 with 2 Ω source impedances, as documented in the RF01243 datasheet. The MDA3KP26CAE3's bidirectional design ensures symmetrical performance across all test configurations.

Does MDA3KP26CAE3 require dry packing or special handling due to moisture sensitivity?

No, the MDA3KP26CAE3 has a moisture sensitivity level (MSL) of Level 1 per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B, meaning it does not require dry packing, baking, or floor-life controls. The device can be stored indefinitely at ambient conditions and processed using standard SMT reflow profiles-including lead-free-without preconditioning. This simplifies manufacturing logistics for the MDA3KP26CAE3.

What is the meaning of the 'C' and 'E3' suffixes in MDA3KP26CAE3?

In MDA3KP26CAE3, the 'C' denotes bidirectional polarity, enabling symmetrical clamping for AC or floating circuits, while 'E3' indicates RoHS-compliant matte-tin terminal plating per JEDEC standards. These suffixes are part of Microsemi's standardized nomenclature and directly define electrical behavior and environmental compliance-both confirmed in the RF01243 datasheet for the MDA3KP26CAE3.

Can MDA3KP26CAE3 replace unidirectional TVS devices in existing designs?

MDA3KP26CAE3 can replace unidirectional TVS devices only if the circuit topology is inherently symmetric or AC-coupled-for example, across differential data lines or transformer-isolated power rails. Its bidirectional nature means it lacks anode/cathode orientation, so it cannot substitute for unidirectional parts in DC-biased single-ended paths without redesign. Always verify layout and bias conditions before substituting the MDA3KP26CAE3.