Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP26CA
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP26CA
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP26CA.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 26VWM 42.1VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,509
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP26CA from Microsemi is a bidirectional 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 ≤42.1 V at 428 A, and features a 26 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (28.9–31.9 V). It is qualified to AEC-Q101 and meets RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP26CA datasheet, MPLAD18KP26CA pinout, MPLAD18KP26CA application, or MPLAD18KP26CA equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, 26 V working voltage, 42.1 V max clamping at 428 A, low thermal resistance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W), and qualification for aircraft-grade surge immunity per DO-160F Waveform 4.
Technical Context
The MPLAD18KP26CA employs an avalanche diode structure optimized for multi-stroke lightning transients, with fast response time (<5 ns) and low clamping ratio (VC/V(BR) ≈ 1.38). Its metal-base package enables direct thermal coupling to heatsinks, supporting sustained energy dissipation under repetitive surges at ≤0.05% duty cycle.
It operates across –55°C to +150°C junction temperature, complies with IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD), IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT), and IEC 61000-4-5 (lightning) with 2 Ω, 12 Ω, and 42 Ω source impedances, and is rated for 1000 A surge testing 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 full-rated lightning surge without failure |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 26 V - maximum continuous DC or RMS operating voltage before conduction |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 28.9–31.9 V @ I(BR) - defines onset of avalanche clamping with tight 5% tolerance |
| Max Clamping Voltage (VC) | 42.1 V @ 428 A IPP - limits downstream circuit voltage during worst-case surge |
| Thermal Resistance (RθJC) | 0.7 °C/W - enables efficient heat transfer from junction to heatsink-mounted case |
| Standby Current (ID) | ≤10 μA @ 26 V - ensures negligible leakage in standby power-sensitive systems |
| Response Time | <5 ns - suppresses fast-rising transients before sensitive ICs are damaged |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount thermosetting epoxy body (UL94V-0), metal base cathode termination, void-free molded construction. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H), weight ~1 g. Mounting requires recommended pad layout per RF01215 Rev B.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Top Surface (Anode) | Anode terminal | Connected to protected line; conducts during positive transients in bidirectional mode |
| Metal Base (Cathode) | Cathode terminal | Must be soldered to copper pour or heatsink for thermal and electrical return path |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional surge suppression | Protects AC or differential lines without polarity constraints; symmetric clamping for ± transients |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive under-hood environments including thermal cycling and humidity exposure |
| RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 compliance | Withstands 6.4/69 μs pin-injection surges up to Level 4 (26–200 V range) |
| IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 support | Meets secondary lightning immunity with 42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances |
| Low-profile SMT package | Enables high-density PCB layouts while maintaining 18 kW surge capability and thermal performance |
Applications
| Aerospace Avionics Power Bus | Automotive Load Dump Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 28 V DC power distribution in flight control computers and sensor interfaces against DO-160F Section 22 lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient clamp on main power rail; absorbs multi-stroke energy without degradation. Use Value: Enables compliance with RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection and Section 22 multi-stroke lightning standards using a single SMT device. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding engine control units (ECUs) and infotainment systems during alternator load dump events (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional shunt protector placed at ECU input; clamps 12 V/24 V system transients to safe levels. Use Value: Limits clamping voltage to 42.1 V at 428 A, preventing damage to downstream 3.3 V/5 V logic and analog front-ends. |
| Industrial Motor Drive DC Link | Railway Signaling Interface |
Use Scenario: Shielding gate drivers and current sensors on 24–48 V DC link rails from switching-induced transients and EFT bursts. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response TVS across DC bus; diverts nanosecond-scale spikes before they propagate to control ICs. Use Value: Sub-5 ns response and 0.7 °C/W RθJC ensure reliable operation under repetitive 0.05% duty-cycle surges in enclosed enclosures. | Use Scenario: Securing 24 V signaling lines in train communication networks against induced surges from traction motor switching and lightning coupling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary protection element compliant with EN 50121-3-2 for railway EMC immunity. Use Value: Meets IEC 61000-4-5 Class 3 with 42 Ω source impedance and supports long-term reliability in high-vibration environments. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ26CA | 600 W PPP rating, 26 V VWM, same bidirectional polarity but 1/30th peak power capacity | Suitable only for low-energy ESD/EFT; cannot meet DO-160F Section 22 or ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5 | Select SMBJ26CA only for cost-sensitive consumer-grade designs with sub-1 kA surge requirements. |
| SMCJ26CA | 1500 W PPP rating, identical VWM and polarity, but lacks AEC-Q101 and DO-160F qualification | Acceptable for industrial IEC 61000-4-5 Class 2–3, but not certified for aerospace or automotive safety-critical use | Choose SMCJ26CA where qualification documentation is not required and surge energy remains below 1.5 kW. |
Compared with SMBJ26CA and SMCJ26CA, the MPLAD18KP26CA provides 30× and 12× higher peak pulse power respectively, along with formal AEC-Q101 and RTCA DO-160F certifications-making it the only option for certified lightning and load dump protection in safety-critical platforms.
Availability
MPLAD18KP26CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive ECU power conditioning, and industrial motor drive protection requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle assurance.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP26CA 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 aerospace-grade components.
The MPLAD18KP26CA belongs to Microsemi's PLAD family of high-power surface-mount TVS diodes, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning and automotive load dump protection in mission-critical systems.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD18KP26CA at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP26CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 42.1 V at 428 A peak pulse current (IPP) under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed across temperature and ensures downstream circuitry remains within safe operating voltage limits during worst-case surge events. The clamping performance is validated per Figure 3 in RF01215 Rev B and supports design margining for 24 V and 28 V systems.
Is MPLAD18KP26CA qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, MPLAD18KP26CA is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its suitability for automotive under-hood and powertrain applications. It meets stress test requirements including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock. Its 26 V VWM and 42.1 V clamping align with ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b load dump profiles, and its bidirectional construction supports dual-polarity protection in CAN/LIN bus interfaces and ECU power inputs.
Does MPLAD18KP26CA require a heatsink for standard operation?
The MPLAD18KP26CA does not require an external heatsink for single-event surge suppression, but its metal base must be soldered to a minimum 1 cm² copper pour for thermal conduction. For repetitive surges (≥0.05% duty cycle), mounting to a heatsink is recommended to maintain junction temperature below 150°C. Thermal resistance junction-to-case is 0.7 °C/W, enabling effective heat extraction when properly mounted per RF01215 Rev B pad layout.
How does the CA suffix in MPLAD18KP26CA affect its functionality?
The "CA" suffix in MPLAD18KP26CA denotes bidirectional construction, meaning the device provides symmetrical transient suppression for both positive and negative voltage excursions. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., MPLAD18KP26A), the CA version has no polarity marking and protects AC-coupled lines, differential buses, or systems where voltage reversal is possible-such as aviation data buses or railway signaling interfaces.
Can MPLAD18KP26CA be used for IEC 61000-4-5 compliance testing?
Yes, MPLAD18KP26CA is explicitly rated for IEC 61000-4-5 secondary lightning protection across Classes 1–5 with 42 Ω source impedance, Classes 1–4 with 12 Ω, and Classes 2–3 with 2 Ω. Its 18,000 W PPP rating and 42.1 V clamping voltage enable robust pass-level performance in system-level immunity testing. Compliance is verified per test conditions in RF01215 Rev B and supported by Microsemi's conformance documentation.
MPLAD18KP26CA 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):
- 26V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 28.9V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 42.1V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 428A
- 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
MPLAD18KP26CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP26CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP26CA 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 MPLAD18KP26CA reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP26CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP26CA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP26CA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP26CA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP26CA?
MPLAD18KP26CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP26CA 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 MPLAD18KP26CA?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP26CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP26CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP26CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP26CA 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 MPLAD18KP26CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP26CA?
All MPLAD18KP26CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP26CA, 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 MPLAD18KP26CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP26CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP26CA 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…

