Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP16CA
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP16CA
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP16CA.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 16VWM 26VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:9,804
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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP16CA 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, clamps transients to ≤26.0 V at 693 A, and features a 16 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (17.8–19.7 V). It is qualified to AEC-Q101 and meets RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection for Waveform 4.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP16CA datasheet, MPLAD18KP16CA pinout, MPLAD18KP16CA application, or MPLAD18KP16CA equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, 18 kW surge rating, IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning compliance, thermal resistance of 0.7 °C/W (junction-to-case), and RoHS-compliant e3 plating - all critical for high-reliability avionics and vehicle ECU protection.
Technical Context
The MPLAD18KP16CA is a silicon avalanche diode-based TVS optimized for multi-stroke lightning immunity per RTCA DO-160 Section 22 and IEC 61000-4-5 with 2 Ω, 12 Ω, and 42 Ω source impedances. Its low RθJC (0.7 °C/W) enables efficient heat transfer to a heatsink, supporting sustained surge duty cycles ≤0.05%.
It operates bidirectionally with symmetrical clamping behavior: VC = 26.0 V max at IPP = 693 A (10/1000 μs), ID ≤10 μA at VWM = 16 V, and αV(BR) = 16 mV/°C. The device uses void-free UL94V-0 epoxy packaging and tin-lead or matte-tin (e3) terminations solderable per MIL-STD-750 Method 2026.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (PPP) | 18,000 W @ 10/1000 μs - sustains aircraft-grade lightning surges without failure |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 16 V - maximum continuous operating voltage before conduction begins |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 26.0 V max @ 693 A - limits downstream IC voltage stress during surge events |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 17.8–19.7 V @ I(BR) - ensures reliable avalanche initiation within defined tolerance |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 0.7 °C/W - enables direct mounting to heatsink for thermal management under repeated surges |
| Standby Current (ID) | ≤10 μA @ 16 V - negligible leakage in standby, preserving system power integrity |
| Temperature Coefficient (αV(BR)) | +16 mV/°C - predictable V(BR) drift over -55°C to +150°C operating range |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount PLAD (Plastic Low-Profile Avalanche Diode) with metal base cathode termination. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H), weight ≈1 g. Cathode is the metal base (bottom side); anode is top-side metallization. Complies with EIA-481-B tape-and-reel (TR suffix optional).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Base (Bottom) | Cathode | Primary heat path and electrical return; must be soldered to copper pour or heatsink |
| Top Metallization | Anode | Transient current entry point; connects to protected line via short trace |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional surge suppression | Protects AC lines or differential buses without polarity constraints - essential for CAN, RS-485, and avionics data links |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated reliability for automotive ECUs exposed to load dump and ISO 7637-2 transients |
| RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 compliance | Withstands 6.4/69 μs pin-injection surges up to 16 V VWM - required for commercial aircraft subsystems |
| IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 support (42 Ω source) | Enables single-device secondary lightning protection across full aircraft equipment classification |
| RoHS-compliant e3 plating | Matte-tin termination ensures lead-free assembly compatibility and long-term solder joint integrity |
Applications
| Avionics Data Bus Protection | Automotive Power Distribution |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting ARINC 429 or MIL-STD-1553B data lines from induced lightning transients on aircraft wings and fuselage. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed at connector interface to clamp common-mode surges before reaching bus transceivers. Use Value: MPLAD18KP16CA's 26.0 V clamping and 18 kW rating prevent damage to level-shifting buffers while meeting DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke requirements. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding 12 V power rails in engine control units during alternator load dump events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge shunt mounted directly across battery input to divert >1000 A transients away from DC-DC converters and microcontrollers. Use Value: With 0.7 °C/W RθJC, MPLAD18KP16CA dissipates energy into chassis ground without thermal runaway, satisfying ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b. |
| Industrial Motor Drive Inputs | Railway Signaling Interfaces |
Use Scenario: Shielding PLC analog I/O modules connected to 24 V field wiring exposed to switching transients from contactors and VFDs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS installed at terminal block to suppress both positive and negative polarity spikes induced by inductive kickback. Use Value: MPLAD18KP16CA's ≤10 μA ID at 16 V avoids signal offset errors, while 26.0 V clamping preserves ADC reference integrity. | Use Scenario: Securing 75 Ω coaxial signaling lines in train communication networks against EFT bursts and lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TVS deployed in parallel with RF front-end components to limit voltage excursions without degrading 1 MHz–100 MHz signal fidelity. Use Value: Symmetrical clamping and <5 ns response time ensure minimal distortion of Manchester-encoded signaling, maintaining EN 50121-4 compliance. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ16CA | 600 W PPP rating (vs. 18,000 W); DO-214AA package; RθJC ≈ 35 °C/W | Limited to low-energy ESD/EFT; unsuitable for lightning or load dump | Select only for board-level ESD protection where surge energy <10 J |
| SMCJ16CA | 1500 W PPP rating; DO-214AB package; RθJC ≈ 15 °C/W; no AEC-Q101 or DO-160 certification | Acceptable for industrial IEC 61000-4-5 Class 3, but not certified for aviation or automotive safety-critical use | Use where cost sensitivity outweighs qualification requirements and surge energy ≤100 J |
Compared with SMBJ16CA and SMCJ16CA, the MPLAD18KP16CA provides 30× and 12× higher peak pulse power respectively, certified thermal performance for heatsink mounting, and formal qualification to RTCA DO-160F and AEC-Q101 - making it the sole option for certified airborne and automotive power rail protection.
Availability
MPLAD18KP16CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for avionics subsystem design, automotive ECU production, and industrial motor control systems requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP16CA 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) designs high-reliability semiconductors for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets, with emphasis on radiation-hardened ICs, timing solutions, and ruggedized discrete components.
The MPLAD series was developed specifically for high-energy transient suppression in mission-critical platforms, combining ultra-low thermal resistance, multi-standard compliance (DO-160, IEC 61000-4-5, AEC-Q101), and surface-mount scalability.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the MPLAD18KP16CA at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP16CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 26.0 V when subjected to its peak pulse current (IPP) of 693 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed per the datasheet's Electrical Characteristics table and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during a full-rated surge event. The MPLAD18KP16CA maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range (-55°C to +150°C) due to its controlled avalanche characteristics.
Is the MPLAD18KP16CA certified for automotive applications?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP16CA is qualified to AEC-Q101 for stress testing including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and surge robustness. It is explicitly rated for automotive load dump protection per ISO 7637-2 and supports engine control unit (ECU) designs requiring validated reliability. The MPLAD18KP16CA's bidirectional construction and 16 V VWM make it suitable for 12 V system inputs, and its thermal design allows direct mounting to chassis ground for effective energy dissipation.
Does the MPLAD18KP16CA meet RTCA DO-160 lightning protection requirements?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP16CA is designed to meet RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning standards and is verified for Pin Injection (Waveform 4) Level 4 at 25°C. Its 18,000 W peak pulse power rating, low clamping voltage, and thermal architecture enable compliance with aircraft equipment categories requiring Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection per IEC 61000-4-5 using 42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances. The MPLAD18KP16CA is referenced directly in the DO-160 test plan documentation for these levels.
What is the thermal resistance and recommended mounting method for the MPLAD18KP16CA?
The MPLAD18KP16CA has a junction-to-case thermal resistance (RθJC) of 0.7 °C/W, measured with the metal base soldered to a thermally optimized copper pad or heatsink. Mounting requires full-surface soldering of the bottom cathode to a minimum 10 cm² copper area (per datasheet pad layout), with optional thermal vias to internal ground planes. The MPLAD18KP16CA's low RθJC enables safe operation under repetitive surges when properly heatsinked - critical for avionics and traction inverter applications.
How does the bidirectional configuration of the MPLAD18KP16CA affect its circuit implementation?
The bidirectional configuration of the MPLAD18KP16CA allows symmetric clamping of both positive and negative transients without regard to signal polarity, making it ideal for AC-coupled interfaces like RS-485, CAN FD, and avionics data buses. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes, the MPLAD18KP16CA eliminates the need for polarity-aware placement or external biasing. Its cathode is the metal base (bottom), and the top metallization serves as the anode for both polarities - simplifying layout and ensuring consistent protection across differential or floating lines.
MPLAD18KP16CA 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):
- 16V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 17.8V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 26V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 693A
- 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
MPLAD18KP16CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP16CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP16CA 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 MPLAD18KP16CA reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP16CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP16CA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP16CA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP16CA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP16CA?
MPLAD18KP16CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP16CA 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 MPLAD18KP16CA?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP16CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP16CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP16CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP16CA 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 MPLAD18KP16CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP16CA?
All MPLAD18KP16CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP16CA, 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 MPLAD18KP16CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP16CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP16CA Tags

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