Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP30A
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP30A
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP30A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 30VWM 48.4VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,669
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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP30A 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, clamps at ≤48.4 V under 372 A peak impulse current, and features a 30 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with 33.3–36.8 V breakdown range - optimized for secondary lightning protection per IEC 61000-4-5 and RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP30A datasheet, MPLAD18KP30A pinout, MPLAD18KP30A application, or MPLAD18KP30A equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability DC bus protection where low thermal resistance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W), RoHS-compliant matte-tin terminations, and MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening capability are critical design requirements.
Technical Context
The MPLAD18KP30A operates as a silicon avalanche diode-based TVS, leveraging controlled breakdown behavior to divert transients away from sensitive circuitry. Its unidirectional polarity and cathode-on-base construction enable direct mounting to heatsinks for optimal thermal management, supporting sustained operation under multi-stroke lightning events per RTCA DO-160 Section 22.
It meets IEC 61000-4-2 ESD (±30 kV contact), IEC 61000-4-4 EFT (40 A), and IEC 61000-4-5 surge (42 Ω, 12 Ω, and 2 Ω source impedances) - with validated clamping performance across Class 1–5 severity levels depending on impedance configuration and voltage rating.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (PPP) | 18,000 W @ 10/1000 μs - enables single-device protection against severe lightning-induced surges without cascaded staging |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 30 V - matches nominal 24 V DC systems with margin for ripple and transients |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 33.3–36.8 V @ I(BR) - ensures reliable conduction onset before downstream component damage thresholds |
| Max Clamping Voltage (VC) | 48.4 V @ 372 A - limits protected circuit voltage to safe levels during full-rated surge |
| Thermal Resistance (RθJC) | 0.7 °C/W - allows efficient heat transfer to heatsink, critical for repetitive surge duty cycles |
| Standby Current (ID) | ≤10 μA @ 30 V - negligible leakage in standby, preserving battery life in always-on systems |
| Surge Rating Standard | IEC 61000-4-5 (42/12/2 Ω), RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 - certified for aircraft avionics and vehicle ECUs |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount PLAD (Plastic Leaded Anode Down) with metal base cathode termination; void-free UL94V-0 epoxy body; 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H); weight ≈1 g; RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (Top Surface Pads) | Transient Current Entry Point | Connected to protected line; low-inductance pad layout minimizes voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients |
| Cathode (Metal Base) | Current Return Path / Heat Sink Interface | Direct thermal path to PCB copper pour or external heatsink; polarity marking on body confirms cathode orientation |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Low-profile SMT construction | Enables placement on high-density PCBs while maintaining 18 kW surge capacity - no through-hole footprint or height penalty |
| 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance | Supports >1000 surge cycles at 0.05% duty factor without thermal runaway when mounted per recommended pad layout |
| RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 compliance | Validated for pin-injection immunity in aircraft systems operating at 25 °C ambient - eliminates need for supplemental filtering |
| MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening option | Enables use in military-grade programs requiring lot traceability, 3σ ID screening, and extended temperature validation (-55 to +150 °C) |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 | Eliminates dry-pack requirement and bake-out prior to reflow - reduces manufacturing cost and handling risk |
Applications
| Aerospace Avionics Power Bus Protection | Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU) Input Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 28 V DC power inputs of flight-critical sensors and communication modules from lightning-induced surges per RTCA DO-160 Section 22. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient shunt device placed directly at connector entry point to clamp energy before it reaches DC-DC converters and microcontrollers. Use Value: Enables compliance with Level 4 pin injection (Waveform 4) without additional RC snubbers or staged TVS arrays - reducing BOM count and board area. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V supply lines of diesel engine control units exposed to load dump transients up to 120 V and 18 kW pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS deployed upstream of LDO regulators and CAN transceivers to prevent latch-up and gate oxide damage. Use Value: Withstands ≥1000 A surge current at 48.4 V clamping, limiting stress on downstream ICs rated for <60 V absolute maximum ratings. |
| Industrial Motor Drive DC Link Protection | Railway Signaling Power Interface |
Use Scenario: Shielding 30–40 V DC link rails in variable-frequency drives from switching-induced transients and ground bounce during IGBT commutation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response avalanche diode suppressing sub-100 ns rise-time spikes before they propagate into gate drivers and current sense amplifiers. Use Value: Sub-100 ps response time ensures clamping activation within first nanosecond of overvoltage event - preventing false triggering of protection logic. | Use Scenario: Securing 30 V auxiliary power feeds in wayside signaling cabinets subjected to induced surges from nearby traction currents and lightning coupling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary surge protector installed after primary gas discharge tube (GDT), absorbing residual energy per IEC 61000-4-5 Class 3 (42 Ω source). Use Value: 30 V VWM aligns precisely with system nominal voltage, avoiding nuisance conduction while providing 18 kW energy absorption capability. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ30A | 600 W PPP rating, SMB package, RθJA = 40 °C/W, no MIL-PRF-19500 screening | Limited to single-stroke, low-duty-cycle consumer/industrial use; not qualified for DO-160 or multi-stroke lightning | Select only for cost-sensitive non-aerospace designs where 18 kW surge capacity is unnecessary |
| SMCJ30A | 1500 W PPP, SMC package, RθJC = 1.5 °C/W, no DO-160 validation or upscreening | Suitable for basic automotive load dump but lacks RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 certification and thermal performance for repeated surges | Use where space permits larger SMC footprint and where aerospace qualification is not required |
Compared with SMBJ30A and SMCJ30A, the MPLAD18KP30A provides 30× higher peak power handling, 2.1× lower junction-to-case thermal resistance, and formal certification for aircraft-level surge immunity - making it irreplaceable in safety-critical, high-reliability platforms demanding verified multi-stroke endurance.
Availability
MPLAD18KP30A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive ECU design, and industrial motor drive development requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing for mission-critical applications.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP30A 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 analog, RF, and timing solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The MPLAD18KP30A belongs to Microsemi's PLAD-series high-power TVS family, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning protection and DO-160-compliant avionics - emphasizing thermal robustness, low clamping overshoot, and qualification-grade process control.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the MPLAD18KP30A at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP30A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 48.4 V at 372 A peak pulse current (IPP) under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed across temperature and ensures protected circuits remain below critical voltage thresholds during full-rated surge events. The MPLAD18KP30A achieves this via tightly controlled avalanche characteristics and low dynamic impedance.
Is the MPLAD18KP30A suitable for bidirectional signal line protection?
No - the MPLAD18KP30A is unidirectional, with cathode on the metal base and anode on the top surface pads. For bidirectional protection, Microsemi offers the MPLAD18KP30CA variant. Using the MPLAD18KP30A on AC or bidirectional lines risks reverse-bias failure; always verify polarity alignment in schematic and layout before deploying the MPLAD18KP30A.
Does the MPLAD18KP30A require special PCB layout considerations?
Yes - the MPLAD18KP30A requires adherence to Microsemi's recommended pad layout (Ref. RF01215) to achieve specified thermal and surge performance. Key requirements include minimum 100 mm² copper pour under the metal base for heatsinking, short low-inductance traces to protected lines, and avoidance of thermal relief on cathode pads. Deviations reduce PPP derating and increase clamping voltage in the MPLAD18KP30A.
Can the MPLAD18KP30A be used in environments exceeding 100 °C ambient temperature?
The MPLAD18KP30A is rated for junction temperatures from –55 °C to +150 °C, but steady-state power dissipation drops significantly above 100 °C case temperature (PD = 71 W at TC = 100 °C, derating to 2.5 W at TA = 25 °C). For continuous high-ambient operation, thermal modeling must confirm junction temperature stays within limit using actual RθJA and airflow data - the MPLAD18KP30A's performance remains valid only if thermal constraints are met.
What certifications does the MPLAD18KP30A hold for aerospace applications?
The MPLAD18KP30A is validated per RTCA DO-160F Section 22 for multi-stroke lightning (Waveform 4 Level 4 and Waveform 5A Level 4), and supports IEC 61000-4-5 surge testing at multiple source impedances (42 Ω, 12 Ω, 2 Ω). It also complies with AEC-Q101 stress testing and offers optional MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening - all documented in Microsemi's RF01215 datasheet for the MPLAD18KP30A.
MPLAD18KP30A 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):
- 30V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 33.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 48.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 372A
- 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
MPLAD18KP30A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP30A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP30A 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 MPLAD18KP30A reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP30A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP30A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP30A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP30A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP30A?
MPLAD18KP30A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP30A 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 MPLAD18KP30A?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP30A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP30A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP30A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP30A 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 MPLAD18KP30A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP30A?
All MPLAD18KP30A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP30A, 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 MPLAD18KP30A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP30A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP30A Tags

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