Send an Inquiry

To receive a quote for your project, please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Name*
Company*
Email Address*
Phone/WhatsApp
Part Number*
Quantity*
Message
Submit Inventory List

Please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Name*
Company*
Email Address*
Phone/WhatsApp
Upload My List
Message

Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP120AE3

Part No.:
MPLAD18KP120AE3
Manufacturer:
Microchip Technology
Category:
TVS Diodes
Package:
Nonstandard SMD
Datasheet:
AetrixMPLAD18KP120AE3.pdf
Description:
TVS DIODE 120VWM 193VC PLAD
Quantity:
Payment:
Payment
Shipping:
Shipping

Inventory:8,686

Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.

Part Number
Quantity*
Price
Name*
Company
Email*
Comments

Product details

Overview

MPLAD18KP120AE3 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 impulse current, and exhibits <100 ps response time. It is widely deployed in aircraft lightning protection per RTCA DO-160 Section 22.

For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP120AE3 datasheet, MPLAD18KP120AE3 pinout, MPLAD18KP120AE3 application, or MPLAD18KP120AE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 120 V VWM rating, 193 V max clamping voltage at 100 A, 18 kW PPP capability, RoHS-compliant e3 plating, and qualification to AEC-Q101 and MIL-PRF-19500 screening levels.

Technical Context

This TVS diode operates as a unidirectional clamping device with cathode on the metal base (package bottom), enabling low-inductance mounting directly to heatsinks. Its thermally optimized transfer-molded epoxy package achieves RθJC = 0.7 °C/W and RθJA = 50 °C/W on FR4 with recommended pad layout.

It meets secondary lightning protection per IEC 61000-4-5 at 42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances (Class 1–5 depending on configuration), and satisfies RTCA/DO-160F Waveform 4 (Level 4) and Waveform 5A (Level 4) pin injection requirements up to 130 V variants - with MPLAD18KP120AE3 validated for Level 4 at 120 V.

Key Specifications

Parameter Value and Actual Design Meaning
Peak Pulse Power (PPP) 18,000 W @ 10/1000 μs - enables single-device suppression of severe load dump and multi-stroke lightning transients
Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) 120 V - matches nominal 100 V DC bus systems with margin for ripple and tolerance
Max Clamping Voltage (VC) 193 V @ IPP = 100 A - ensures downstream 200 V-rated components remain within safe operating area
Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) 133–147 V @ I(BR) - guarantees reliable turn-on above system operating voltage while avoiding false triggering
Thermal Resistance (RθJC) 0.7 °C/W - allows direct thermal coupling to heatsink for sustained multi-pulse operation without derating
Standby Current (ID) ≤10 μA @ 120 V - negligible leakage in standby, critical for battery-backed or low-power monitoring circuits
Response Time <100 ps - sub-nanosecond reaction captures fast-rising ESD and RFI-induced transients before IC damage

Pinout & Package

Surface-mount package with two terminals: anode (top metallization) and cathode (exposed metal base). The cathode serves as both electrical terminal and primary thermal path - requires soldering to copper pour or heatsink for optimal thermal performance.

Pin/Terminal Circuit Role Design Meaning
Anode Positive input terminal Connected to protected line (e.g., 120 V DC bus); forms forward-biased path during negative transients
Cathode Negative terminal / thermal interface Mounted to PCB copper or heatsink; provides lowest-inductance ground return and primary heat dissipation path

Key Features

Feature Design Value
18 kW peak pulse rating Single-device protection against RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning events without parallel staging
RoHS-compliant e3 matte-tin plating Lead-free assembly compatibility with standard reflow profiles (TSP = 260 °C @ 10 s) and no dry-pack requirement (Moisture Sensitivity Level 1)
AEC-Q101 qualified Validated reliability for automotive under-hood applications including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock
Low-profile thermally enhanced package 0.49" × 0.23" footprint with 0.10" height - fits space-constrained avionics modules while enabling >70 W steady-state dissipation at TC = 100 °C
Traceable wafer and assembly lots Full lot traceability supports DO-160 compliance documentation and failure analysis in safety-critical deployments

Applications

Aircraft Lightning Protection Automotive Load Dump Suppression

Use Scenario: Protection of avionics power inputs against induced surges from lightning strikes per RTCA DO-160 Section 22.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping element placed at board-level power entry, shunting transients before they reach DC/DC converters and FPGAs.

Use Value: Enables Level 4 pin injection compliance at 120 V systems with verified 18 kW multi-pulse endurance - eliminating need for external spark gaps or staged TVS arrays.

Use Scenario: Safeguarding engine control units (ECUs) and body control modules during alternator load dump events in 24 V commercial vehicles.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS connected between battery rail and ground, clamping 120 V transients to ≤193 V within 100 ps.

Use Value: Withstands 100 A peak impulse at 193 V clamping, protecting 200 V-rated MOSFETs and gate drivers without derating or thermal shutdown.

Industrial DC Bus Protection Railway Signaling Interface

Use Scenario: Securing 110 V DC traction power interfaces in rail infrastructure control cabinets against switching transients and EFT bursts.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS installed across main DC input, absorbing repetitive 10/1000 μs surges up to 18 kW without degradation.

Use Value: 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance enables continuous operation at 71 W (TC = 100 °C), supporting high-duty-cycle industrial environments.

Use Scenario: Protecting track-side signaling receivers from induced surges caused by nearby lightning or switching of high-current traction loads.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary protection device downstream of isolation transformers, clamping common-mode transients on 120 V signaling lines.

Use Value: Validated per IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4 (42 Ω source), ensuring interoperability with EN 50121-3-2 railway EMC 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 Lower PPP (600 W), smaller SMB package, RθJA ≈ 110 °C/W, no AEC-Q101 or DO-160 qualification Suitable only for low-energy consumer-grade transients; cannot meet RTCA DO-160 Section 22 or IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4 Select when cost and board space outweigh multi-stroke lightning robustness and aerospace qualification needs.
SMCJ120A PPP = 1500 W, SMC package, RθJA ≈ 75 °C/W, AEC-Q101 qualified but not DO-160 tested Supports automotive load dump but lacks multi-pulse endurance and pin-injection validation required for avionics Choose for automotive ECUs where DO-160 compliance is not mandated and thermal budget permits higher RθJA.

Compared with SMBJ120A and SMCJ120A, the MPLAD18KP120AE3 delivers 30× and 12× higher peak pulse power respectively, certified thermal performance for heatsink mounting, and full DO-160F/IEC 61000-4-5 compliance - making it the only option for certified aerospace and high-reliability industrial 120 V DC bus protection.

Availability

MPLAD18KP120AE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aircraft lightning protection, automotive load dump suppression, and industrial DC bus protection requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MPLAD18KP120AE3 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 MPLAD18KP120AE3 belongs to Microsemi's PLAD family of high-power surface-mount TVS diodes, engineered specifically for certified lightning and load dump protection in safety-critical platforms where multi-stroke endurance and thermal stability are non-negotiable.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD18KP120AE3 at its rated peak pulse current?

The MPLAD18KP120AE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 193 V at 100 A peak impulse current (IPP) under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed per datasheet Figure 3 and ensures protected circuitry remains below 200 V - a critical threshold for many 120 V DC system components. The clamping behavior is repeatable across multi-pulse events when mounted per recommended pad layout.

Is MPLAD18KP120AE3 qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, MPLAD18KP120AE3 is AEC-Q101 qualified and rated for automotive load dump protection. Its 120 V VWM and 193 V clamping voltage align with 24 V system requirements, and its thermal design (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W) supports operation in under-hood environments. It also meets ESD (IEC 61000-4-2) and EFT (IEC 61000-4-4) immunity standards required for automotive ECUs.

Does MPLAD18KP120AE3 require moisture-sensitive handling?

No, MPLAD18KP120AE3 has IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B Moisture Sensitivity Level 1, meaning it does not require dry pack storage or baking prior to reflow. Its void-free transfer-molded epoxy body and e3 RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating ensure robust solderability using standard reflow profiles up to 260 °C for 10 seconds.

How is thermal management implemented for MPLAD18KP120AE3?

Thermal management relies on direct conduction from the cathode (exposed metal base) to a heatsink or large PCB copper pour. With RθJC = 0.7 °C/W and RθJA = 50 °C/W on FR4, the device dissipates up to 71 W at TC = 100 °C. Recommended pad layout (per datasheet page 7) uses ≥2 in² of 2-oz copper connected via multiple thermal vias to internal planes for optimal heat spreading.

Can MPLAD18KP120AE3 be used for bidirectional protection?

No - MPLAD18KP120AE3 is unidirectional (denoted by "A" suffix). For bidirectional protection at 120 V, the correct variant is MPLAD18KP120CA. Using the unidirectional MPLAD18KP120AE3 on AC or bipolar signal lines would result in forward conduction during negative half-cycles and potential failure. Always match polarity suffix ("A" vs "CA") to system topology.

MPLAD18KP120AE3 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

MPLAD18KP120AE3 FAQ

1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP120AE3 through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP120AE3 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 MPLAD18KP120AE3 reliable?

The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP120AE3 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP120AE3 is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP120AE3?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP120AE3 transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP120AE3?

MPLAD18KP120AE3 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your MPLAD18KP120AE3 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 MPLAD18KP120AE3?

For technical support, including MPLAD18KP120AE3 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP120AE3 requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP120AE3 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All MPLAD18KP120AE3 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 MPLAD18KP120AE3 meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP120AE3?

All MPLAD18KP120AE3 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP120AE3, 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 MPLAD18KP120AE3 part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for MPLAD18KP120AE3:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.

MPLAD18KP120AE3 Tags

  • MPLAD18KP120AE3
  • MPLAD18KP120AE3 PDF
  • MPLAD18KP120AE3 Datasheet
  • MPLAD18KP120AE3 Specifications
  • MPLAD18KP120AE3 Images
  • Microchip Technology
  • Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP120AE3
  • Buy MPLAD18KP120AE3
  • MPLAD18KP120AE3 Price
  • MPLAD18KP120AE3 Distributor
  • MPLAD18KP120AE3 Supplier
  • MPLAD18KP120AE3 Wholesale
Related Products
ESD9B5.0ST5G
ESD9B5.0ST5G

onsemi

DESD3V3E1BL-7B
DESD3V3E1BL-7B

Diodes Incorporated

ESD5Z3.3T1G
ESD5Z3.3T1G

onsemi

D5V0H1B2LP-7B
D5V0H1B2LP-7B

Diodes Incorporated

D5V0P1B2LP-7B
D5V0P1B2LP-7B

Diodes Incorporated

DESD5V0U1BA-7
DESD5V0U1BA-7

Diodes Incorporated

ESD5Z5.0T1G
ESD5Z5.0T1G

onsemi

DESD5V0U1BB-7
DESD5V0U1BB-7

Diodes Incorporated

D12V0L1B2LP-7B
D12V0L1B2LP-7B

Diodes Incorporated

PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL

Nexperia USA Inc.

DF2S5M4CT,L3F
DF2S5M4CT,L3F

Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

D5V0L1B2WS-7
D5V0L1B2WS-7

Diodes Incorporated

Tech Hub

Search

Search

PRODUCT

PRODUCT

PHONE

PHONE

USER

USER