Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP120CAE3
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP120CAE3
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP120CAE3.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 120VWM 193VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,353
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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP120CAE3 from Microsemi is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace, automotive, and industrial 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 94 A peak impulse current (IPP), and meets RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection for Waveform 4 in aircraft avionics.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP120CAE3 datasheet, MPLAD18KP120CAE3 pinout, MPLAD18KP120CAE3 application, or MPLAD18KP120CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, IEC 61000-4-5 Class 2–5 secondary lightning compliance with 42 Ω/12 Ω source impedances, thermal resistance of 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case, and RoHS-compliant e3 plating for lead-free assembly.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped crowbar device triggered by avalanche breakdown above its specified V(BR) range (133–147 V). Its bidirectional construction enables symmetrical clamping for AC-coupled or floating signal lines, and it is validated for multi-stroke lightning per RTCA DO-160 Section 22 using 10/1000 μs waveform testing.
The device uses a void-free UL94V-0 thermosetting epoxy package with metal-base cathode termination, optimized for low thermal resistance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W) and high-power dissipation on FR4 PCBs with recommended pad layout. It supports steady-state power dissipation up to 71 W at TC = 100°C and passes AEC-Q101 qualification.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (PPP) | 18,000 W @ 10/1000 μs - sustains single-stroke lightning surges without failure |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 120 V - maximum continuous operating voltage before clamping initiates |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | ≤193 V @ IPP = 94 A - limits downstream circuit voltage during surge events |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 133–147 V @ I(BR) - defines precise avalanche onset threshold |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 0.7 °C/W - enables efficient heat transfer to heatsink or copper pour |
| Steady-State Power Dissipation | 71 W @ TC = 100°C - supports sustained thermal management in high-ambient environments |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level | Level 1 per J-STD-020B - no dry pack required prior to reflow |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount PLAD (Plastic Low-profile Anode/Cathode Dual) with metal base cathode terminal. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H), weight ≈1 g. Terminations are RoHS-compliant matte-tin (e3) plating.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (Top Side) | AC input / Signal line terminal | Connected to protected line; bidirectional symmetry allows either polarity connection |
| Cathode (Metal Base) | Reference / Ground return path | Low-inductance thermal and electrical path to PCB ground plane or heatsink |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping architecture | Enables protection of AC-coupled, differential, or floating bus lines without polarity constraints |
| RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 compliance | Validated for 6.4/69 μs pin-injection transients in aircraft avionics interfaces |
| IEC 61000-4-5 secondary lightning protection | Class 2–5 certified with 42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances for system-level surge immunity |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Qualified for automotive underhood and powertrain applications requiring robust reliability |
| e3 RoHS-compliant terminations | Matte-tin plating ensures compatibility with Pb-free reflow profiles and long-term solderability |
Applications
| Aircraft Avionics Interface Protection | Automotive Load Dump Suppression |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting ARINC 429 data buses and sensor inputs against induced transients during lightning strikes or ESD events in flight. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamp placed directly at connector entry point to shunt surge energy before reaching interface ICs. Use Value: Meets RTCA DO-160F Section 22 multi-stroke lightning requirements while maintaining signal integrity below 193 V clamping threshold. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding engine control unit (ECU) power inputs during alternator load dump events (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-power crowbar device absorbing up to 18 kW surge energy within 1000 μs, preventing overvoltage damage to downstream regulators and microcontrollers. Use Value: Clamps at ≤193 V while sustaining 94 A peak current, enabling use with 12 V nominal systems without derating. |
| Industrial Motor Drive Gate Driver Protection | Railway Signaling Line Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding isolated gate driver inputs from switching-induced transients in variable-frequency drives. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed across isolated signal lines to suppress common-mode noise and fast-rising dv/dt spikes. Use Value: Sub-100 ps response time ensures clamping activation before gate oxide breakdown in SiC/GaN drivers. | Use Scenario: Securing track-side signaling circuits exposed to electromagnetic interference from traction currents and lightning coupling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary surge protector installed at field termination boxes to meet EN 50121-4 immunity requirements. Use Value: Validated for IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4 with 42 Ω source impedance, providing interoperable protection across European rail infrastructure. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ120CA | 600 W PPP rating, 120 V VWM, SMB package, RθJC ≈ 15 °C/W | Lower power handling; suitable only for sub-1 kA surge events | Select when cost-sensitive designs require basic IEC 61000-4-2/4-4 compliance without lightning-level energy absorption |
| SMCJ120CA | 1500 W PPP rating, same VWM, SMC package, RθJC ≈ 3.5 °C/W | Intermediate power class; lacks RTCA DO-160F validation and AEC-Q101 qualification | Choose for industrial controls needing higher surge margin than SMBJ but without aerospace or automotive certification requirements |
Compared with SMBJ120CA and SMCJ120CA, the MPLAD18KP120CAE3 provides 30× and 12× higher peak pulse power respectively, full RTCA DO-160F Level 4 validation, and AEC-Q101 qualification-making it the only option for certified high-reliability aerospace and automotive load-dump protection.
Availability
MPLAD18KP120CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aircraft avionics interface protection, automotive load dump suppression, and industrial motor drive gate driver protection requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP120CAE3 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, timing, and radiation-hardened solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The MPLAD series belongs to Microsemi's high-power surface-mount TVS portfolio, engineered specifically for certified lightning and load-dump protection in safety-critical systems where multi-stroke survivability and thermal robustness are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD18KP120CAE3 at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP120CAE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 193 V when subjected to its rated peak impulse current (IPP) of 94 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed per the manufacturer's electrical characteristics table and reflects worst-case performance across temperature and lot variations. The clamping behavior is bidirectional and symmetric, ensuring consistent protection regardless of surge polarity.
Does MPLAD18KP120CAE3 meet automotive qualification standards?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP120CAE3 is qualified to AEC-Q101 for discrete semiconductors, confirming its suitability for automotive applications including underhood and powertrain systems. It is specifically validated for load dump protection per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b and supports operation from −55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature. The device also undergoes 3σ lot norm screening on standby current (ID) for long-term reliability assurance.
How does the PLAD package of MPLAD18KP120CAE3 improve thermal performance compared to standard SMC or SMB packages?
The PLAD package of MPLAD18KP120CAE3 achieves a junction-to-case thermal resistance (RθJC) of just 0.7 °C/W-over 5× lower than typical SMC packages (~3.5 °C/W) and ~20× lower than SMB packages (~15 °C/W). This is enabled by its metal-base cathode construction and optimized internal die attach, allowing direct thermal conduction to PCB copper pours or heatsinks. As a result, MPLAD18KP120CAE3 sustains 71 W steady-state power at TC = 100°C, far exceeding alternatives.
Is MPLAD18KP120CAE3 compliant with RTCA DO-160F lightning test requirements?
Yes, MPLAD18KP120CAE3 is explicitly validated for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 multi-stroke lightning testing. It meets Level 4 pin injection for Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) and supports Waveform 5A (40/120 μs) up to Level 4. Documentation confirms compliance across its full VWM range (7.0–120 V), and Microsemi's RF01215 Rev B datasheet cites this qualification for the MPLAD18KP120CAE3 variant.
What is the meaning of the "CA" and "E3" suffixes in MPLAD18KP120CAE3?
In MPLAD18KP120CAE3, "CA" denotes bidirectional polarity (C = common cathode configuration, A = alternate marking convention for bidirectional devices), and "E3" specifies RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating per JEDEC J-STD-020B Level 1 moisture sensitivity-no dry-pack required. These suffixes are defined in Microsemi's part nomenclature guide and confirmed in the RF01215 datasheet revision history and packaging notes.
MPLAD18KP120CAE3 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package/Case:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- 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
MPLAD18KP120CAE3 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP120CAE3 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP120CAE3 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 MPLAD18KP120CAE3 reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP120CAE3 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP120CAE3 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP120CAE3?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP120CAE3 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP120CAE3?
MPLAD18KP120CAE3 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP120CAE3 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 MPLAD18KP120CAE3?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP120CAE3 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP120CAE3 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP120CAE3 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP120CAE3 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 MPLAD18KP120CAE3 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP120CAE3?
All MPLAD18KP120CAE3 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP120CAE3, 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 MPLAD18KP120CAE3 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP120CAE3:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP120CAE3 Tags

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ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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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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