Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP33AE3
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP33AE3
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP33AE3.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 33VWM 53.3VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP33AE3 from Microsemi is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace, automotive, and industrial power rails. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps to ≤53.3 V at 338 A peak current, and features a 33 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM), 36.7–40.6 V breakdown voltage (V(BR)), and 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP33AE3 datasheet, MPLAD18KP33AE3 pinout, MPLAD18KP33AE3 application, or MPLAD18KP33AE3 equivalent, this device is selected for lightning immunity (RTCA DO-160 Section 22), load dump suppression, and IEC 61000-4-5 secondary protection with 2–42 Ω source impedance - requiring precise VWM margining, thermal derating awareness, and polarity-aware PCB layout due to cathode-on-base construction.
Technical Context
This TVS operates as a silicon avalanche diode optimized for multi-stroke lightning transients and automotive load dump events. Its low RθJC (0.7 °C/W) enables effective heat transfer to the PCB copper plane or heatsink, while its <100 ps response time ensures sub-nanosecond clamping onset during fast-rising ESD/EFT events per IEC 61000-4-2/4-4.
The device complies with AEC-Q101 stress testing and supports MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening options. Its RoHS-compliant e3 matte-tin plating and UL94V-0 void-free epoxy package meet stringent reliability requirements for avionics and mission-critical embedded systems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (10/1000 μs) | 18,000 W - sustains full-rated surge energy without failure under defined waveform and duty cycle |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 33 V - maximum continuous DC or peak AC voltage the device blocks before clamping begins |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 36.7–40.6 V @ I(BR) - guaranteed avalanche initiation range; sets minimum clamping threshold |
| Max Clamping Voltage (VC) | 53.3 V @ 338 A - upper limit of voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge |
| Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance | 0.7 °C/W - enables direct thermal path to heatsink or large copper pour for sustained surge handling |
| Standby Current (ID) | 10 μA @ 33 V - negligible leakage at rated operating voltage, minimizing standby power loss |
| Response Time | <100 ps - ensures clamping activation before most system-level transients propagate into ICs |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount PLAD (Power Low-Profile Avalanche Diode), thermoset epoxy body with metal base cathode termination. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H); weight ≈ 1 g. Cathode is the exposed metal base (bottom side), anode is top-side metallization.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (top metallization) | Positive terminal for unidirectional conduction | Connected to protected line; conducts only when cathode is more positive than anode by ≥V(BR) |
| Cathode (metal base) | Negative terminal / heat sink interface | Must be soldered to large copper area or heatsink; serves dual role as electrical return and primary thermal path |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 18 kW surge rating with 10/1000 μs waveform | Validated for RTCA DO-160 Section 22 multi-stroke lightning - enables single-device compliance without external series impedance |
| Cathode-on-base thermal architecture | 0.7 °C/W RθJC allows >70 W steady-state dissipation at TC = 100°C - supports hybrid protection schemes with upstream fusing |
| AEC-Q101 qualified and MIL-PRF-19500 upscreenable | Lot traceability, 3σ ID screening, and surge testing per JEDEC JESD22-A114 ensure field reliability in harsh environments |
| IEC 61000-4-5 compliant (2–42 Ω Zs) | Class 1–5 protection across multiple source impedances - eliminates need for separate TVS per test condition in certification labs |
| e3 RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating | Meets IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B Level 1 moisture sensitivity - zero dry-pack requirement simplifies SMT assembly logistics |
Applications
| Aerospace Avionics Power Bus Protection | Automotive 12 V Load Dump Suppression |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting flight control computers and sensor interfaces on 28 V DC aircraft power buses subjected to RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) and Waveform 5A (40/120 μs) pin injection transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping element placed directly at connector entry point; cathode tied to chassis ground plane for lowest-inductance path. Use Value: Enables Level 4/5 compliance without additional filtering or series impedance - reduces BOM count and board space vs. multi-stage solutions. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding engine control units (ECUs) and infotainment modules against 12 V battery load dump spikes (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b) reaching up to 120 V for 400 ms. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS shunting surge energy to ground rail; mounted with minimal trace length between anode and protected input. Use Value: Clamps peak voltage to ≤53.3 V within 100 ps - prevents latch-up or gate oxide damage in downstream 3.3 V/5 V logic and CAN transceivers. |
| Industrial Motor Drive DC Link Protection | Railway Signaling Interface Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding gate drivers and current sensors on 48–72 V DC link rails in variable-frequency drives exposed to switching-induced transients and inductive kickback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS across DC bus capacitors; cathode soldered to thick copper ground plane for thermal management. Use Value: 18 kW rating absorbs repetitive surges without degradation - extends service life vs. lower-power TVS arrays requiring derating. | Use Scenario: Securing 72 V signaling lines in railway signaling cabinets against induced surges from nearby traction currents and lightning coupling per EN 50121-4. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional-capable variant used (MPLAD18KP33CA), but unidirectional MPLAD18KP33AE3 deployed where polarity is fixed and ground-referenced. Use Value: Validated for IEC 61000-4-5 Class 3 with 42 Ω source impedance - meets EMC immunity requirements without external impedance matching networks. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ33A | 600 W PPP rating, 5.0 mm × 4.5 mm SMB package, RθJA = 40 °C/W, no AEC-Q101 qualification | Limited to single-stroke surges; unsuitable for RTCA DO-160 multi-stroke or automotive load dump validation | Select only for cost-sensitive, non-certified consumer-grade 33 V rail protection with low repetition rate |
| SMCJ33A | 1500 W PPP rating, 7.1 mm × 6.2 mm SMC package, RθJA = 25 °C/W, AEC-Q101 qualified | Cannot meet 18 kW DO-160 stroke requirements; requires parallel devices for equivalent energy handling | Choose when board space permits larger footprint and thermal design accommodates higher RθJC (1.5 °C/W typical) |
Compared with SMBJ33A and SMCJ33A, the MPLAD18KP33AE3 provides 30× and 12× higher peak pulse power respectively, with integrated thermal path design enabling direct PCB heatsinking - making it uniquely suitable for certified aerospace and automotive surge standards where single-device compliance and thermal robustness are mandatory.
Availability
MPLAD18KP33AE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive ECU, and industrial motor drive applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and certified surge immunity performance.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP33AE3 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, communications, and industrial markets.
The MPLAD series was developed specifically for high-energy transient suppression in safety-critical systems, emphasizing multi-stroke lightning resilience, AEC-Q101 qualification, and thermal performance in surface-mount form factors.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD18KP33AE3 at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP33AE3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 53.3 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 338 A under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured at the device terminals and represents the highest voltage the protected circuit will experience during a full-rated surge event. The MPLAD18KP33AE3 maintains this clamping performance across its specified temperature range and after multiple surge events per RTCA DO-160.
How does the cathode-on-base construction of MPLAD18KP33AE3 affect PCB layout?
The cathode-on-base construction of MPLAD18KP33AE3 requires the metal base (cathode) to be soldered directly to a large copper pour or heatsink for optimal thermal performance and low-inductance grounding. This mandates a dedicated thermal pad on the bottom layer, connected via multiple vias to internal ground planes. Anode traces must be kept short and wide to minimize inductance, and the device must not be placed over split planes. The MPLAD18KP33AE3 datasheet specifies exact pad dimensions to ensure mechanical reliability and thermal efficiency.
Is MPLAD18KP33AE3 suitable for bidirectional transient protection?
No, MPLAD18KP33AE3 is a unidirectional TVS diode, intended for DC or polarity-defined AC circuits where the protected line remains positive relative to ground. For bidirectional protection, the functionally equivalent part is MPLAD18KP33CA (with 'CA' suffix). Using MPLAD18KP33AE3 in a bidirectional application risks forward conduction during negative transients, potentially damaging the device or failing to clamp. Always verify polarity alignment before placing MPLAD18KP33AE3 in the schematic.
What certifications and standards does MPLAD18KP33AE3 meet?
MPLAD18KP33AE3 is AEC-Q101 qualified and validated for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 multi-stroke lightning (Waveforms 4 and 5A), IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD), IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT), and IEC 61000-4-5 (surge) with 2–42 Ω source impedance. It also meets MIL-PRF-19500 screening options when upscreened. These certifications are documented in Microsemi's RF01215 Rev B datasheet and supported by lot-level surge testing and 3σ standby current screening.
Can MPLAD18KP33AE3 replace older PLAD-series TVS diodes in existing designs?
Yes, MPLAD18KP33AE3 is a direct replacement for earlier PLAD18KP33A variants with identical electrical specs, package outline, and thermal characteristics. The 'E3' suffix confirms RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating per J-STD-020B Level 1, eliminating dry-pack requirements. No PCB layout changes are needed, and the MPLAD18KP33AE3 maintains full compatibility with legacy PLAD18KP33A footprints, thermal pads, and test procedures - provided the original design accounted for its 33 V VWM and 53.3 V VC.
MPLAD18KP33AE3 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):
- 33V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 36.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 53.3V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 338A
- 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
MPLAD18KP33AE3 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP33AE3 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP33AE3 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 MPLAD18KP33AE3 reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP33AE3 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP33AE3 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP33AE3?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP33AE3 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP33AE3?
MPLAD18KP33AE3 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP33AE3 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 MPLAD18KP33AE3?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP33AE3 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP33AE3 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP33AE3 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP33AE3 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 MPLAD18KP33AE3 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP33AE3?
All MPLAD18KP33AE3 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP33AE3, 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 MPLAD18KP33AE3 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP33AE3:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP33AE3 Tags

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