Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP15A
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP15A
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP15A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15VWM 24.4VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:9,409
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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP15A 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, clamps transients to ≤24.4 V at 738 A, and features a 15 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), 16.7–18.5 V breakdown voltage (V(BR)), and 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP15A datasheet, MPLAD18KP15A pinout, MPLAD18KP15A application, or MPLAD18KP15A equivalent, this device is selected for lightning-level secondary protection per IEC 61000-4-5 (42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances), RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4/5 compliance, and high-reliability avionics power bus protection where low thermal resistance and multi-stroke survivability are critical.
Technical Context
The MPLAD18KP15A employs a silicon avalanche diode structure optimized for fast response (<5 ns clamping time) and high cumulative energy handling. Its metal-base package enables direct thermal coupling to heatsinks, supporting sustained surge duty cycles with ≤0.05% impulse repetition rate.
It meets AEC-Q101 stress testing requirements and supports MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening options. The device operates across –55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature range and exhibits a +15 mV/°C temperature coefficient of breakdown voltage, enabling stable clamping performance under thermal variation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (10/1000 μs) | 18,000 W - sustains full-rated lightning surge energy without degradation |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 15 V - maximum continuous DC or peak AC voltage before conduction begins |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 16.7–18.5 V @ I(BR) - precise avalanche onset threshold for predictable clamping initiation |
| Max Clamping Voltage (VC) | 24.4 V @ 738 A - limits downstream circuit voltage during worst-case surge |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 0.7 °C/W - enables efficient heat transfer to PCB copper or external heatsink |
| Standby Current (ID) | 10 μA @ 15 V - negligible leakage during normal operation, preserving system efficiency |
| Clamping Response Time | <5 ns - sub-nanosecond turn-on ensures protection of fast-edge digital and analog circuits |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount PLAD (Plastic Leaded Anvil Device) with metal baseplate for thermal conduction. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H); weight ≈ 1 g. Cathode terminal is the exposed metal base (bottom side), anode is the top-side lead frame.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Base (Bottom) | Cathode | Primary thermal path and high-current return node; must be soldered to large copper pour or heatsink |
| Top Lead Frame | Anode | Signal/power input node; connects to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail, CAN bus, sensor supply) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 18 kW Surge Rating | Enables single-device protection against RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning events without derating |
| 0.7 °C/W RθJC | Reduces junction temperature rise by >70% vs. standard SMD TVS, extending lifetime under repeated surges |
| IEC 61000-4-5 Compliance (42/12/2 Ω) | Validated for Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection across multiple source impedances in industrial and transport systems |
| RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 | Guarantees immunity to 6.4/69 μs pin-injection transients up to 150 V on avionics power inputs |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Meets automotive-grade reliability for under-hood and battery-line applications including load dump suppression |
Applications
| Aerospace Power Distribution | Automotive Battery Line Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 28 V DC main bus in commercial aircraft avionics bays subjected to DO-160F Section 22 lightning-induced transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient voltage suppressor placed at bus entry point to clamp induced surges before they reach LRUs. Use Value: Withstands ≥100 multi-stroke 18 kW surges while maintaining clamping below 25 V, preventing latch-up or burnout in downstream DC-DC converters. | Use Scenario: 12 V battery feed to engine control unit (ECU) during alternator load dump events (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-power TVS shunting surge current away from ECU input protection network. Use Value: Clamps 100 V/300 A transients to ≤24.4 V within 5 ns, eliminating need for series resistors or additional filtering stages. |
| Industrial Motor Drive DC Bus | Railway Signaling Power Input |
Use Scenario: 48 V DC bus supplying variable-frequency drives in factory automation, exposed to switching transients from contactor bounce and IGBT commutation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bulk surge absorber mounted directly at bus entry to protect gate drivers and MCU power rails. Use Value: 18 kW rating absorbs repetitive 1–5 ms transients without thermal runaway; metal-base mounting reduces steady-state junction temp by 40 °C vs. standard SMC packages. | Use Scenario: 110 V DC signaling power input in European railway interlocking cabinets, subject to IEC 61000-4-5 surge tests with 42 Ω source impedance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary surge protector downstream of primary MOV-based front-end, providing precise clamping and fast response. Use Value: Meets Class 4 immunity (4 kV) with <25 V clamping margin, ensuring safe operation of 24 V logic interfaces powered from the same rail. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ15A | 600 W rating (vs. 18,000 W); 200x lower peak power; SMC package; RθJC = 15 °C/W | Only suitable for low-energy ESD/EFT (IEC 61000-4-2/4); not rated for lightning or load dump | Select only for board-level ESD protection where surge energy is <10 J; not a functional replacement for MPLAD18KP15A |
| SMCJ15A | 1500 W rating; same VWM/V(BR) range; SMC package; RθJC = 12.5 °C/W; no DO-160F validation | Limited to industrial IEC 61000-4-5 Class 2–3; lacks multi-stroke lightning qualification and AEC-Q101 screening | Acceptable for cost-sensitive non-avionic applications requiring basic 15 V clamping, but requires thermal redesign and requalification for DO-160 or automotive use |
Compared with SMBJ15A and SMCJ15A, the MPLAD18KP15A provides 30× higher surge capacity, 18× lower thermal resistance, and certified compliance with aviation and automotive surge standards-making it irreplaceable in safety-critical power bus protection where single-event robustness and multi-stroke endurance are mandatory.
Availability
MPLAD18KP15A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace power distribution, automotive battery line protection, and industrial motor drive DC bus applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable high-reliability sourcing.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP15A 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, radiation-tolerant, and high-power analog/mixed-signal solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The MPLAD18KP15A belongs to Microsemi's PLAD-series high-power TVS family, engineered specifically for lightning and load-dump protection in mission-critical power systems where thermal management, multi-stroke endurance, and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the MPLAD18KP15A at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP15A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 24.4 V at its peak pulse current (IPP) of 738 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed across the operating temperature range and ensures downstream components remain within safe voltage limits during surge events. The MPLAD18KP15A achieves this clamping performance with sub-5 ns response time and minimal overshoot due to its optimized silicon avalanche structure.
Is the MPLAD18KP15A qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP15A is AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive applications, including under-hood battery line protection against load dump transients (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a). Its 18,000 W surge rating, 15 V standoff, and 0.7 °C/W thermal resistance make it suitable for 12 V and 24 V vehicle electrical systems. The MPLAD18KP15A also supports optional MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening for enhanced reliability in demanding automotive environments.
How does the metal baseplate of the MPLAD18KP15A improve thermal performance?
The metal baseplate of the MPLAD18KP15A serves as the cathode terminal and provides a low-resistance thermal path from the die to the PCB copper pour or external heatsink. With a junction-to-case thermal resistance (RθJC) of just 0.7 °C/W-over 20× better than standard SMC packages-it minimizes junction temperature rise during repeated surges. This allows the MPLAD18KP15A to sustain high-energy transients without thermal runaway, extending service life in applications like avionics power buses and industrial motor drives.
Does the MPLAD18KP15A meet RTCA DO-160F lightning protection requirements?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP15A is validated for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 lightning-induced transient protection, including Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) Level 4 and Level 5 compliance. It is specifically rated for multi-stroke lightning events and supports pin-injection testing at 25 °C with full derating guidance provided in MicroNote 132. The MPLAD18KP15A's 18 kW rating and fast <5 ns response ensure reliable protection of aircraft power distribution systems meeting stringent DO-160F requirements.
What is the polarity configuration and marking convention for the MPLAD18KP15A?
The MPLAD18KP15A is a unidirectional TVS diode, indicated by the "A" suffix (as opposed to "CA" for bidirectional). Its cathode is the exposed metal baseplate on the bottom of the package, while the anode connects to the top-side lead frame. The device body is laser-marked with the full part number "MPLAD18KP15A", and polarity must be observed during PCB layout to ensure correct orientation-reverse installation will prevent proper clamping operation. The MPLAD18KP15A's cathode-down mounting is essential for both electrical function and thermal performance.
MPLAD18KP15A 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):
- 15V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 24.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 738A
- 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
MPLAD18KP15A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP15A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP15A 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 MPLAD18KP15A reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP15A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP15A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP15A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP15A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP15A?
MPLAD18KP15A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP15A 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 MPLAD18KP15A?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP15A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP15A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP15A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP15A 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 MPLAD18KP15A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP15A?
All MPLAD18KP15A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP15A, 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 MPLAD18KP15A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP15A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP15A Tags

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