Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP120A
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP120A
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP120A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 120VWM 193VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:5,722
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP120A from Microsemi is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace, automotive, and industrial power systems. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, features a 120 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps to ≤193 V at 100 A peak pulse current (IPP), and exhibits <100 ps response time. It is qualified to AEC-Q101 and meets RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection for waveform 4.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP120A datasheet, MPLAD18KP120A pinout, MPLAD18KP120A application, or MPLAD18KP120A equivalent, this device is selected for secondary lightning protection per IEC 61000-4-5 (42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances), load dump suppression in 24 V/48 V vehicle architectures, and ESD/EFT hardening per IEC 61000-4-2/4-4 in avionics power rails.
Technical Context
The MPLAD18KP120A employs an avalanche diode structure optimized for low clamping ratio and minimal thermal resistance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W). Its metal-base cathode construction enables direct thermal coupling to heatsinks or PCB copper planes, supporting sustained multi-stroke surge handling under ≤0.05% duty factor conditions.
It operates with a breakdown voltage (V(BR)) range of 133–147 V at I(BR), standby current (ID) ≤10 μA at 120 V, and temperature coefficient αV(BR) = 145 mV/°C - enabling predictable derating across –55°C to +150°C junction temperature range.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (PPP) | 18,000 W @ 10/1000 μs - sustains aircraft lightning-induced surges per RTCA DO-160 Section 22 without failure |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 120 V - matches nominal 100 V DC bus systems with 20% margin for ripple and transients |
| Max Clamping Voltage (VC) | 193 V @ IPP = 100 A - limits downstream IC stress below 200 V absolute maximum rating |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 133–147 V @ I(BR) - ensures reliable turn-on before system overvoltage damage occurs |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 0.7 °C/W - enables >70 W steady-state dissipation when mounted on ≥10 cm² copper pad per datasheet layout |
| Response Time | <100 ps - clamps fast-rising ESD and RFI-induced transients before logic or analog circuitry reacts |
| Surge Rating (IEC 61000-4-5) | Class 1–5 @ 42 Ω, Class 1–4 @ 12 Ω, Class 2–3 @ 2 Ω - certified for multi-level secondary lightning protection |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount PLAD (Plastic Low-profile Anode-down) with metal base cathode terminal. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H), weight ≈1 g. Cathode is the exposed metal base (bottom side); anode is top-side metallization.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (Top-side metallization) | Positive input terminal for unidirectional clamping | Connected to protected line (e.g., 120 V rail); conducts surge current toward cathode during overvoltage |
| Cathode (Metal base) | Reference/ground return path | Must be soldered to large copper pour or heatsink for thermal management and low-inductance surge return |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Low-profile SMT package with metal base | Enables direct thermal conduction to PCB plane - reduces RθJA to 50 °C/W on FR4, eliminating need for discrete heatsinks |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive underhood environments including temperature cycling, humidity, and mechanical shock |
| RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 compliance | Withstands 6.4/69 μs pin-injection transients up to 120 V standoff - required for commercial avionics power inputs |
| RoHS-compliant (e3 plating) | Matte-tin terminations ensure lead-free reflow compatibility and long-term solder joint reliability |
| 3σ lot norm screening on ID | Guarantees standby leakage ≤10 μA at 120 V across production lots - critical for low-power always-on systems |
Applications
| Aerospace Power Distribution | Commercial Vehicle Load Dump Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: 28 V DC power bus in flight control actuator electronics subjected to DO-160 Section 22 lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary secondary surge clamp on main power input, placed upstream of DC-DC converters and motor drivers. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤193 V, preventing latch-up or gate oxide rupture in downstream SiC MOSFET drivers rated for 200 V max. |
Use Scenario: 24 V battery-fed ECU in heavy-duty truck experiencing 120 V load dump per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS shunting surge energy directly to chassis ground via metal base mounting. Use Value: Absorbs 18 kW peak energy within 1 ms, maintaining rail voltage below 193 V to protect 16-bit microcontroller I/O and CAN transceivers. |
| Industrial Motor Drive DC Link | Renewable Energy Inverter Input Stage |
|
Use Scenario: 100–120 V DC link in servo drive exposed to IGBT switching transients and induced RFI. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response clamping device across DC+ and DC−, suppressing dV/dt spikes before they propagate to gate drivers. Use Value: Sub-100 ps response prevents false triggering of overvoltage protection circuits and maintains PWM timing integrity. |
Use Scenario: PV string combiner box input rated for 120 V max, subject to IEC 61000-4-5 surge testing at Class 4 (42 Ω source). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary protection stage after MOV-based primary clamping, handling residual fast-rising energy. Use Value: Provides precise 120 V standoff and 193 V clamping - avoids nuisance tripping while ensuring compliance with UL 1741 SA requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ120A (onsemi) | Lower PPP (600 W), DO-214AA package, RθJC = 35 °C/W, no AEC-Q101 or DO-160 certification | Limited to consumer/industrial single-stroke surges; unsuitable for aviation or automotive multi-stroke requirements | Select only for cost-sensitive non-safety-critical 120 V rail protection where certification is not mandated |
| SMCJ120A (Littelfuse) | PPP = 1500 W, DO-214AB package, RθJC = 15 °C/W, IEC 61000-4-5 Class 3 only, no DO-160 data | Acceptable for basic industrial surge immunity but lacks thermal robustness and aerospace qualification | Use where board space allows larger SMC package and certification scope is limited to IEC standards only |
Compared with SMBJ120A and SMCJ120A, the MPLAD18KP120A provides 12× higher peak power handling, certified multi-stroke capability per DO-160, and integrated thermal design for high-reliability embedded systems - making it the only option for avionics and automotive-grade 120 V DC protection.
Availability
MPLAD18KP120A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace power distribution, commercial vehicle load dump protection, and industrial motor drive DC link applications requiring stable component supply and full qualification traceability.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP120A 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, RF, and timing solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The MPLAD18KP120A belongs to Microsemi's PLAD-series high-power TVS family, engineered specifically for certified multi-stroke surge resilience in safety-critical airborne and automotive power systems.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD18KP120A at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP120A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 193 V at 100 A peak pulse current (IPP) under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed across the operating temperature range and forms the basis for downstream component voltage margining in designs using the MPLAD18KP120A.
Is MPLAD18KP120A qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP120A is AEC-Q101 qualified and tested per the standard's requirements for temperature cycling, humidity, and mechanical shock. It is explicitly intended for automotive load dump and transient protection in engine control units and ADAS power supplies where the MPLAD18KP120A's 120 V standoff and 18 kW surge rating meet ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a demands.
Does MPLAD18KP120A meet RTCA DO-160 lightning protection requirements?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP120A is certified for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 lightning-induced transient suppression. It achieves Level 4 for pin injection (Waveform 4, 6.4/69 μs) and supports multi-stroke testing per the standard - a key requirement validated in the official Microsemi RF01215 datasheet for the MPLAD18KP120A.
What is the thermal resistance and recommended mounting method for MPLAD18KP120A?
The MPLAD18KP120A has a junction-to-case thermal resistance (RθJC) of 0.7 °C/W. Its metal base cathode must be soldered to a minimum 10 cm² copper pour or external heatsink using the recommended pad layout from the datasheet. This mounting is essential to dissipate heat during repeated surges and maintain reliability of the MPLAD18KP120A in high-duty-cycle environments.
How does the polarity marking work on MPLAD18KP120A?
The MPLAD18KP120A is unidirectional, with polarity defined by its physical construction: the cathode is the exposed metal base (bottom side), and the anode is the top-side metallization. The body marking includes "MPLAD18KP120A" - no separate polarity symbol is used, as orientation is determined by the metal base placement during PCB layout for the MPLAD18KP120A.
MPLAD18KP120A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package/Case:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 120V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 133V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 193V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 94A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 18000W (18kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Military
- Qualification:
- MIL-PRF-19500
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- PLAD
MPLAD18KP120A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP120A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP120A 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 MPLAD18KP120A reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP120A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP120A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP120A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP120A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP120A?
MPLAD18KP120A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP120A 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 MPLAD18KP120A?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP120A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP120A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP120A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP120A 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 MPLAD18KP120A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP120A?
All MPLAD18KP120A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP120A, 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 MPLAD18KP120A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP120A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP120A Tags

-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…

