Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP17AE3
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP17AE3
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP17AE3.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 17VWM 27.6VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,715
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP17AE3 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, features a 17 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), clamps to ≤27.6 V at 653 A peak current, and operates across –55°C to +150°C junction temperature. It is qualified to AEC-Q101 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 MPLAD18KP17AE3 datasheet, MPLAD18KP17AE3 pinout, MPLAD18KP17AE3 application, or MPLAD18KP17AE3 equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability DC bus protection where low clamping voltage, minimal thermal resistance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W), and multi-stroke lightning resilience are critical - especially in avionics power distribution, 24 V/48 V vehicle electronics, and industrial PLC I/O modules.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses silicon avalanche technology with a metal-base cathode configuration optimized for low-inductance, high-current transient suppression. Its thermally enhanced plastic package enables direct heat sinking via the metal backside, supporting sustained surge handling under ≤0.05% duty cycle per IEC 61000-4-5 test conditions.
The device exhibits a breakdown voltage range of 18.9–20.9 V at I(BR), a maximum clamping voltage of 27.6 V at 653 A IPP, and a temperature coefficient of breakdown voltage (αV(BR)) of +18 mV/°C - enabling predictable derating over temperature in high-ambient environments such as engine compartments or avionics bays.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (PPP) | 18,000 W @ 10/1000 μs - sustains multi-stroke lightning surges without degradation |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 17 V - matches nominal 15–16 V DC systems (e.g., 24 V automotive with ripple) |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | ≤27.6 V @ 653 A - limits downstream IC stress below 30 V absolute max rating |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 0.7 °C/W - enables efficient heat transfer to PCB copper or external heatsink |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 18.9–20.9 V @ I(BR) - ensures reliable turn-on before system overvoltage damage |
| Temperature Coefficient αV(BR) | +18 mV/°C - allows accurate clamping voltage prediction from –55°C to +150°C |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level | Level 1 (IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B) - no dry pack or bake required prior to reflow |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount PLAD (Plastic Leaded Anode Down) with metal base cathode terminal. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H), weight ≈1 g. Cathode is the exposed metal bottom surface; anode is top-side metallization.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (top-side pad) | Transient current entry point | Connected to protected line (e.g., battery feed); low-inductance layout minimizes overshoot |
| Cathode (metal base) | Current return path & thermal interface | Soldered directly to large copper pour or heatsink; serves dual electrical/thermal function |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 18 kW surge rating | Validated for ≥1000A 10/1000 μs pulses - exceeds DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke requirements |
| Low RθJC (0.7 °C/W) | Enables >2× higher thermal power handling vs. standard SMC packages - reduces risk of thermal runaway |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Guarantees reliability for automotive powertrain and chassis applications - includes HTOL, TC, and surge testing |
| RoHS-compliant e3 plating | Matte-tin terminations ensure solderability and intermetallic stability in lead-free reflow profiles |
| RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 compliance | Withstands 6.4/69 μs pin-injection transients up to 17 V VWM devices - certified for aircraft avionics |
Applications
| Aerospace Power Distribution | Automotive Load Dump Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 28 V DC power bus in flight control computers subjected to DO-160F Section 22 lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient clamp on main power input, placed upstream of DC/DC converters and FPGAs. Use Value: Limits bus voltage to ≤27.6 V during 18 kW surges, preventing latch-up or gate oxide rupture in downstream 3.3 V/5 V logic. | Use Scenario: 24 V battery-fed ECU experiencing ISO 7637-2 load dump events (up to 120 V, 400 ms). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS shunting excess energy to ground during alternator field decay. Use Value: Clamps within 100 ps, sustaining 653 A peak current without failure - protects CAN transceivers and microcontrollers. |
| Industrial PLC I/O Modules | Railway Signaling Power Supplies |
Use Scenario: 24 V digital input channels exposed to inductive switching transients from solenoid valves and contactors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Line-side surge protector on each channel, mounted adjacent to connector entry point. Use Value: Withstands repeated 1 kV/500 A surges per IEC 61000-4-4 EFT - maintains signal integrity and prevents false triggering. | Use Scenario: 110 V DC auxiliary power supply in train signaling cabinets subject to EN 50121-3-2 conducted surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary protection stage after MOV-based primary clamping. Use Value: Provides precise 27.6 V clamping with <5 ns response - safeguards isolated RS-485 transceivers and safety relays. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ17A | 600 W PPP rating, 17 V VWM, SMC package, RθJC = 15 °C/W | Limited to single-stroke surges; unsuitable for DO-160 multi-stroke or repeated load dump cycles | Select only for cost-sensitive, low-energy industrial controls where 18 kW capability is unnecessary |
| SMCJ17A | 1500 W PPP rating, same VWM, larger SMC package, RθJC = 10 °C/W | Cannot meet RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection or IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4/5 without parallel staging | Acceptable for basic automotive body electronics but requires thermal derating above 75°C ambient |
Compared with SMBJ17A and SMCJ17A, the MPLAD18KP17AE3 delivers 30× higher peak power handling, 20× lower thermal resistance, and certified compliance with aviation-grade surge standards - making it irreplaceable in safety-critical, high-reliability power rail protection where single-point failure is unacceptable.
Availability
MPLAD18KP17AE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace power distribution, automotive load dump protection, and industrial PLC I/O modules requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP17AE3 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 analog, mixed-signal, and power semiconductors for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The MPLAD18KP17AE3 belongs to Microsemi's PLAD-series high-power TVS family, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning and load dump protection in mission-critical systems where thermal robustness and certification compliance are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the MPLAD18KP17AE3 at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP17AE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 27.6 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 653 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured per Figure 3 in the RF01215 datasheet and ensures protected circuits remain within safe operating voltage margins. The MPLAD18KP17AE3 achieves this performance while maintaining sub-100 ps response time, critical for safeguarding fast-switching power electronics.
Is the MPLAD18KP17AE3 qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP17AE3 is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its suitability for automotive powertrain and chassis applications. It undergoes high-temperature operating life (HTOL), temperature cycling, and surge testing per the AEC standard. The MPLAD18KP17AE3 is specifically used in 24 V load dump protection circuits where its 18 kW rating and 653 A peak current capability exceed ISO 7637-2 requirements - ensuring long-term reliability in engine bay environments.
How does the PLAD package of the MPLAD18KP17AE3 improve thermal performance compared to standard SMC or SMB packages?
The PLAD package of the MPLAD18KP17AE3 features a metal base cathode that serves as both electrical terminal and thermal interface, achieving a junction-to-case thermal resistance (RθJC) of just 0.7 °C/W - over 20× better than typical SMC packages (~15 °C/W). This allows the MPLAD18KP17AE3 to dissipate surge energy more efficiently into PCB copper or external heatsinks, reducing thermal stress and enabling multi-stroke operation. The design eliminates reliance on top-side traces for heat removal, a key advantage in high-density layouts.
Does the MPLAD18KP17AE3 meet RTCA DO-160F lightning protection requirements?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP17AE3 is certified for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 lightning-induced transient suppression, including Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) Level 4 compliance. Its 18 kW rating and low clamping voltage enable it to protect avionics power inputs against multi-stroke events without degradation. The MPLAD18KP17AE3 is explicitly listed in the RF01215 datasheet for DO-160F Level 4 across the 7.0 V to 200 V VWM range - confirming its use in certified aircraft systems.
What is the polarity configuration and mounting orientation for the MPLAD18KP17AE3?
The MPLAD18KP17AE3 is a unidirectional TVS diode with cathode on the metal base (bottom surface) and anode on the top-side metallization. During PCB layout, the cathode must be connected to system ground or the lowest potential reference plane, while the anode connects to the line being protected. The metal base must be soldered to a thermally robust copper area - not left floating - to ensure both electrical functionality and thermal performance. This orientation is defined in the "POLARITY" section of the RF01215 datasheet.
MPLAD18KP17AE3 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):
- 17V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 18.9V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 27.6V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 653A
- 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
MPLAD18KP17AE3 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP17AE3 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP17AE3 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 MPLAD18KP17AE3 reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP17AE3 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP17AE3 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP17AE3?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP17AE3 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP17AE3?
MPLAD18KP17AE3 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP17AE3 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 MPLAD18KP17AE3?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP17AE3 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP17AE3 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP17AE3 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP17AE3 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 MPLAD18KP17AE3 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP17AE3?
All MPLAD18KP17AE3 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP17AE3, 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 MPLAD18KP17AE3 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP17AE3:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP17AE3 Tags

-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…

