Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP170CAE3
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP170CAE3
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP170CAE3.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 170VWM 275VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,005
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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP170CAE3 from Microsemi is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace and automotive systems. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, features a 170 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps to ≤275 V at 66 A peak impulse current (IPP), and meets RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection requirements.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP170CAE3 datasheet, MPLAD18KP170CAE3 pinout, MPLAD18KP170CAE3 application, or MPLAD18KP170CAE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, 170 V VWM rating, low thermal resistance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W), RoHS-compliant e3 plating, and qualification per AEC-Q101 and MIL-PRF-19500 screening options.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a clamping device in parallel with sensitive circuitry, activating above its breakdown voltage (V(BR) = 189–209 V) to divert surge energy to ground. Its metal-base package enables direct thermal coupling to heatsinks, supporting high-repetition-rate transients when mounted per recommended pad layout on FR4.
It is characterized for multi-stroke lightning compliance (RTCA DO-160 Section 22), ESD (IEC 61000-4-2), EFT (IEC 61000-4-4), and pin-injection immunity. The bidirectional construction allows symmetric clamping for AC-coupled or floating signal lines without polarity sensitivity.
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) | 170 V - maximum continuous operating voltage before clamping initiates |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 275 V @ IPP = 66 A - limits downstream voltage stress during worst-case surge |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 189–209 V @ I(BR) - precise turn-on threshold enabling predictable protection margin |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 0.7 °C/W - enables efficient heat transfer to PCB copper or external heatsink |
| Steady-State Power Dissipation | 71 W @ TC = 100°C - supports sustained thermal management under elevated ambient |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level | Level 1 per J-STD-020B - no dry pack or bake required prior to reflow |
Pinout & Package
The MPLAD18KP170CAE3 uses a surface-mount, metal-base package (PLAD) with two terminals: anode and cathode. The cathode is the metal base (bottom side of device), requiring thermal pad connection to PCB ground plane or heatsink for optimal thermal performance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Surge current entry point (bidirectional) | Connected to protected line; conducts during both positive and negative transients |
| Cathode | Surge current return path / thermal interface | Must be soldered to large copper area or heatsink; serves as primary thermal conduction path |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping architecture | Enables protection of AC-coupled or floating bus lines without polarity constraints |
| 18 kW peak pulse rating | Meets RTCA DO-160F Section 22 multi-stroke lightning test requirements |
| 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance | Supports high-duty-cycle surge events when thermally anchored to PCB copper |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive under-hood and powertrain applications with extended temperature reliability |
| e3 RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating | Ensures reliable solderability and long-term intermetallic stability per MIL-STD-750 |
Applications
| Aircraft Avionics Power Input | Automotive Load Dump Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 28 V DC power inputs of flight control computers and navigation radios against induced lightning transients per DO-160F Section 22. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary parallel clamping TVS suppressing multi-stroke surges up to 18 kW while maintaining <275 V clamping. Use Value: Enables compliance with Level 4 pin-injection (Waveform 4) and Class 1–5 IEC 61000-4-5 lightning standards without derating. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding engine control units (ECUs) and body control modules (BCMs) during alternator load dump events in 24 V commercial vehicles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-energy bidirectional clamp absorbing >1000 V, 100 ms transients with minimal voltage overshoot. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage in microcontrollers and CAN transceivers by limiting clamped voltage to ≤275 V at 66 A. |
| Industrial Motor Drive DC Bus | Railway Signaling Interface |
Use Scenario: Shielding gate drivers and isolated feedback circuits on 200 V DC bus rails from switching-induced voltage spikes and EFT noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response (sub-100 ps turn-on) TVS placed across bus rails to clamp repetitive transients without thermal runaway. Use Value: Maintains system uptime by surviving >1000 surge cycles at 0.05% duty factor per Figure 1 derating curve. | Use Scenario: Protecting Ethernet and RS-485 communication ports in track-side signaling equipment exposed to induced surges from nearby lightning strikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional surge suppressor on differential data lines, providing symmetric clamping without polarity biasing. Use Value: Ensures uninterrupted data integrity under IEC 61000-4-5 testing with 42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances per Class 1–5 severity levels. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Littelfuse SP1003-018 | 18 kW rating, 170 V VWM, but unidirectional only; RθJC = 1.2 °C/W | Requires polarity-aware placement; less effective for AC or floating interfaces | Select only if unidirectional operation is acceptable and thermal budget permits higher junction rise |
| Vishay SMAJ170CA | 600 W PPP rating, same 170 V VWM and bidirectional polarity; SMC package | Insufficient for DO-160F lightning; limited to IEC 61000-4-2/4-4 level protection | Use only for cost-sensitive, low-energy ESD/EFT applications where 18 kW capability is unnecessary |
Compared with SP1003-018 and SMAJ170CA, the MPLAD18KP170CAE3 uniquely combines bidirectional 18 kW surge handling, 0.7 °C/W thermal resistance, and DO-160F/IEC 61000-4-5 certification-making it irreplaceable for certified aerospace and heavy-duty automotive surge protection.
Availability
MPLAD18KP170CAE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aircraft avionics, automotive powertrain electronics, and industrial motor drive systems requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP170CAE3 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 surge protection devices.
The MPLAD18KP170CAE3 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.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the MPLAD18KP170CAE3 at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP170CAE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 275 V at a peak impulse current (IPP) of 66 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured per standard test methods and ensures downstream circuitry remains within safe voltage limits during surge events. The MPLAD18KP170CAE3 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the MPLAD18KP170CAE3 qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP170CAE3 is qualified to AEC-Q101 for stress testing including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and surge endurance. It is rated for operation from −55 °C to +150 °C and supports automotive load dump protection in 24 V systems. The MPLAD18KP170CAE3 also offers optional MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening for enhanced reliability in mission-critical automotive subsystems.
Does the MPLAD18KP170CAE3 require a heatsink for standard operation?
The MPLAD18KP170CAE3 does not require an external heatsink for single-event surge suppression, but its metal-base package must be soldered to a minimum 1-inch² copper pad on the PCB for effective thermal dissipation. For repetitive surges or elevated ambient temperatures, additional copper pour or thermal vias are recommended. The MPLAD18KP170CAE3 achieves RθJC = 0.7 °C/W only when properly mounted per the specified pad layout.
How does the bidirectional design of the MPLAD18KP170CAE3 affect circuit layout?
The bidirectional design of the MPLAD18KP170CAE3 eliminates polarity constraints, allowing placement across AC-coupled lines, transformer-isolated interfaces, or floating buses without orientation concerns. However, the cathode remains the metal base and must be connected to the system ground plane or heatsink for thermal and electrical performance. The MPLAD18KP170CAE3 simplifies layout versus unidirectional alternatives but retains strict thermal mounting requirements.
What certifications does the MPLAD18KP170CAE3 meet for aerospace use?
The MPLAD18KP170CAE3 meets RTCA DO-160F Section 22 for multi-stroke lightning (Waveform 4 Level 4 and Waveform 5A Level 4), IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection (with 42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances), and ESD/EFT immunity per IEC 61000-4-2 and IEC 61000-4-4. These certifications are verified per the RF01215 datasheet and apply directly to the MPLAD18KP170CAE3.
MPLAD18KP170CAE3 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):
- 170V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 189V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 275V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 66A
- 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
MPLAD18KP170CAE3 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP170CAE3 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP170CAE3 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 MPLAD18KP170CAE3 reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP170CAE3 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP170CAE3 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP170CAE3?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP170CAE3 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP170CAE3?
MPLAD18KP170CAE3 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP170CAE3 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 MPLAD18KP170CAE3?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP170CAE3 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP170CAE3 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP170CAE3 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP170CAE3 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 MPLAD18KP170CAE3 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP170CAE3?
All MPLAD18KP170CAE3 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP170CAE3, 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 MPLAD18KP170CAE3 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP170CAE3:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP170CAE3 Tags

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ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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onsemi

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

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ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

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DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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