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Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP15AE3
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP15AE3
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP15AE3.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15VWM 24.4VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,473
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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP15AE3 from Microsemi is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace, automotive, and industrial power rails. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps 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. It is qualified to AEC-Q101 and meets RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection for aircraft systems.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP15AE3 datasheet, MPLAD18KP15AE3 pinout, MPLAD18KP15AE3 application, or MPLAD18KP15AE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 15 V working voltage, 24.4 V max clamping under 738 A surge, RoHS-compliant e3 plating, low-profile thermoset epoxy package, and compliance with IEC 61000-4-5 (Class 1–5, 42 Ω source) and RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a clamping device in parallel with protected circuitry, triggering when transient voltage exceeds its breakdown threshold (16.7–18.5 V). Its low RθJC (0.7 °C/W) enables effective heat transfer to an external heatsink, supporting repeated multi-stroke lightning events per RTCA DO-160 Section 22.
It is rated for 100% surge testing per lot, features 3σ screening on standby current (ID ≤10 μA @ 15 V), and provides ESD (IEC 61000-4-2), EFT (IEC 61000-4-4), and secondary lightning protection across multiple source impedances (2 Ω, 12 Ω, 42 Ω).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (10/1000 μs) | 18,000 W - sustains full-rated surge energy without failure under standard lightning waveform |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 15 V - maximum continuous DC or RMS operating voltage before conduction begins |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 16.7–18.5 V @ I(BR) - guaranteed conduction onset range, enabling predictable turn-on margin |
| Max Clamping Voltage (VC) | 24.4 V @ 738 A - limits downstream voltage stress during worst-case surge event |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 0.7 °C/W - enables efficient heat extraction to heatsink, critical for multi-pulse reliability |
| Standby Current (ID) | ≤10 μA @ 15 V - negligible leakage in normal operation, preserving system efficiency |
| RoHS Compliance | e3 marking - matte-tin plating, lead-free, compliant with EU Directive 2011/65/EU |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount thermoset epoxy case (UL94V-0), void-free molded body with metal base cathode termination; dimensions 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.33 mm (L × W × H); weight ≈1 g; polarity marked - cathode is metal base (bottom side).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (top surface pad) | Transient current entry point for unidirectional operation | Connected to line/rail being protected; conducts only during positive transients relative to cathode |
| Cathode (metal base) | Current return path and thermal interface | Electrically and thermally connected to PCB copper pour or heatsink; defines polarity and enables thermal dissipation |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| High-reliability wafer & assembly lot traceability | Full traceability supports aerospace and defense configuration management and failure analysis |
| 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 150 V at 25 °C - required for avionics equipment certification |
| IEC 61000-4-5 Class 5 support (42 Ω source) | Enables use in highest-severity secondary lightning protection zones without external series impedance |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 | No dry pack or baking required prior to reflow - simplifies SMT manufacturing and reduces cost |
Applications
| Avionics Power Distribution | Automotive Load Dump Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 28 V DC bus in flight control computers and navigation units against DO-160F Waveform 4 transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamping device placed directly across input rail to limit surge voltage to <25 V. Use Value: Ensures compliance with RTCA DO-160F Level 4 without additional filtering, reducing board space and BOM count. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding engine control unit (ECU) power inputs during alternator load dump events (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping element absorbing >18 kW surge energy within 1000 μs. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or damage to downstream 40 V-rated DC-DC converters and microcontrollers. |
| Industrial Motor Drive DC Bus | Railway Signaling Interface |
Use Scenario: Protecting 24 V DC bus feeding servo drives from switching transients induced by IGBT commutation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response shunt protector with <100 ps response time, placed at drive input terminal block. Use Value: Limits voltage overshoot to ≤24.4 V, maintaining safe operating area for MOSFET gate drivers and isolated feedback circuits. | Use Scenario: Shielding 15 V signaling lines in track-side electronic interlocking systems from induced surges during lightning strikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary lightning protector per IEC 61000-4-5 (42 Ω source, Class 4), mounted at line entry connector. Use Value: Achieves immunity to 4 kV surge test without derating or parallel staging, meeting EN 50121-4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ15A | 600 W PPP rating, 200 V standoff max, SMB package (smaller footprint, higher RθJA = 40 °C/W) | Not suitable for multi-stroke lightning or DO-160F Level 4; limited to consumer/industrial single-event surges | Select only for cost-sensitive, low-energy applications where 18 kW capability is unnecessary |
| SMCJ15A | 1500 W PPP rating, same VWM/V(BR) range, SMC package, RθJC ≈ 2.5 °C/W | Lacks AEC-Q101 qualification and DO-160F validation; not traceable or upscreenable | Acceptable for non-automotive/non-avionics industrial use where full qualification is not mandated |
Compared with SMBJ15A and SMCJ15A, the MPLAD18KP15AE3 provides 30× higher peak power handling, certified aerospace-grade reliability, and validated performance under multi-pulse lightning conditions - making it irreplaceable in safety-critical rail, aviation, and heavy-vehicle systems.
Availability
MPLAD18KP15AE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for avionics power distribution, automotive load dump protection, and industrial motor drive DC bus applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and full traceability.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP15AE3 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, timing, and radiation-hardened solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The MPLAD18KP15AE3 belongs to Microsemi's PLAD family of high-power surface-mount TVS diodes, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning protection and mission-critical surge immunity in harsh-environment electronics.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD18KP15AE3 at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP15AE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 24.4 V at 738 A peak pulse current (IPP) under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed per datasheet Figure 3 and ensures downstream components see no more than 24.4 V during worst-case surge events. The MPLAD18KP15AE3 achieves this with low dynamic impedance and optimized silicon geometry.
Is MPLAD18KP15AE3 qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, MPLAD18KP15AE3 is AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive use, having passed stress tests including temperature cycling, humidity, mechanical shock, and high-temperature operating life. Its 15 V VWM and 24.4 V clamping make it suitable for 12 V/24 V vehicle subsystems, especially underhood ECUs exposed to load dump pulses. The MPLAD18KP15AE3 also supports optional MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening for extended reliability.
Does MPLAD18KP15AE3 require a heatsink for reliable operation?
Yes - while the MPLAD18KP15AE3 has low RθJC (0.7 °C/W), its 18,000 W peak power rating demands effective thermal management. Reliable multi-pulse operation requires mounting the metal cathode base to a PCB copper pour ≥10 cm² or an external heatsink. Without thermal sinking, junction temperature rise exceeds safe limits after even one full-power surge. The MPLAD18KP15AE3 datasheet specifies case temperature control per Note 4.
What does the "E3" suffix mean in MPLAD18KP15AE3?
"E3" denotes RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating on the terminals of MPLAD18KP15AE3, per EU Directive 2011/65/EU. It replaces traditional tin-lead finishes and ensures solderability per MIL-STD-750 Method 2026. The "E3" marking appears on the device body and confirms compliance with environmental regulations without compromising surge robustness or thermal performance of the MPLAD18KP15AE3.
Can MPLAD18KP15AE3 be used for bidirectional protection?
No - MPLAD18KP15AE3 is unidirectional (denoted by "A" suffix). For bidirectional protection at 15 V standoff, the correct part is MPLAD18KP15CA. Using MPLAD18KP15AE3 in bidirectional configurations risks catastrophic failure during negative transients, as it lacks symmetrical breakdown characteristics. Always match polarity suffix ("A" vs "CA") to system signal topology when selecting the MPLAD18KP15AE3 or its variants.
MPLAD18KP15AE3 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
MPLAD18KP15AE3 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP15AE3 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP15AE3 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 MPLAD18KP15AE3 reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP15AE3 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP15AE3 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP15AE3?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP15AE3 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP15AE3?
MPLAD18KP15AE3 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP15AE3 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 MPLAD18KP15AE3?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP15AE3 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP15AE3 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP15AE3 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP15AE3 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 MPLAD18KP15AE3 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP15AE3?
All MPLAD18KP15AE3 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP15AE3, 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 MPLAD18KP15AE3 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP15AE3:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP15AE3 Tags
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