Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP36CA
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP36CA
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP36CA.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 36VWM 58.1VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,238
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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP36CA 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 at ≤58.1 V under 310 A peak impulse current, and features a 36 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (40.0–44.2 V). It meets RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 and IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 secondary lightning protection requirements.
For engineers reviewing the MPLAD18KP36CA datasheet, MPLAD18KP36CA pinout, MPLAD18KP36CA application, or MPLAD18KP36CA equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, low thermal resistance (RθJC = 0.7 °C/W), RoHS-compliant e3 plating, 1 g mass, and qualification to AEC-Q101 and MIL-PRF-19500 screening levels.
Technical Context
The MPLAD18KP36CA employs an avalanche diode structure optimized for multi-stroke lightning transients per RTCA DO-160 Section 22 and IEC 61000-4-5 with 2 Ω, 12 Ω, and 42 Ω source impedances. Its metal-base cathode construction enables direct thermal coupling to heatsinks, supporting sustained operation at TC = 100°C with 71 W steady-state dissipation.
It operates across –55°C to +150°C junction temperature range and exhibits a temperature coefficient of breakdown voltage (αV(BR)) of +40 mV/°C. Standby current ID is ≤10 μA at 36 V VWM, and clamping response time is <5 ns - critical for protecting sensitive avionics and engine control units from fast-rising EFT and ESD events.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 36 V maximum working standoff voltage - sets upper limit for continuous system bus voltage before conduction begins |
| V(BR) min/max | 40.0–44.2 V breakdown range at I(BR) - ensures reliable turn-on margin above VWM under temperature variation |
| VC @ IPP | ≤58.1 V clamping voltage at 310 A peak pulse - defines worst-case overvoltage seen by protected ICs during surge |
| PPP | 18,000 W peak pulse power @ 10/1000 μs - supports multi-stroke lightning compliance without degradation |
| RθJC | 0.7 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance - enables efficient heat transfer to external heatsink or copper plane |
| ID @ VWM | ≤10 μA standby leakage - minimizes quiescent power loss in battery-backed or low-power systems |
| Package | Surface-mount PLAD package with metal base - provides mechanical robustness and low-inductance path for surge current |
Pinout & Package
The MPLAD18KP36CA uses a 2-terminal surface-mount PLAD package with exposed metal base acting as the cathode terminal for bidirectional operation. The device has no internal leads; both terminals are soldered directly to PCB pads - one via metallized top surface (anode), the other via the thermally conductive metal base (cathode).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Top Surface Pad | Anode (bidirectional) | Primary surge current entry point; connects to protected line (e.g., aircraft 28 V DC bus) |
| Metal Base (Bottom) | Cathode (bidirectional) | Thermal and electrical return path; must be soldered to large copper pour or heatsink for RθJC = 0.7 °C/W performance |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional surge suppression | Protects AC-coupled or floating lines (e.g., RS-485, CAN FD buses) without polarity sensitivity |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive under-hood environments including thermal cycling, humidity, and mechanical shock |
| RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 compliance | Withstands 6.4/69 μs pin-injection transients up to 36 V VWM devices - essential for flight-critical avionics |
| IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 support (42 Ω source) | Enables single-device secondary lightning protection across all severity levels in telecom and rail infrastructure |
| e3 RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating | Ensures solderability and long-term reliability in lead-free reflow processes without tin whisker risk |
Applications
| Aerospace Avionics Power Bus Protection | Automotive Load Dump Suppression |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 28 V DC power distribution networks in commercial aircraft against lightning-induced surges per DO-160 Section 22. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed at PDU input to clamp transients before they reach downstream DC-DC converters and flight control modules. Use Value: Withstands ≥100 multi-stroke lightning events at 18 kW without parameter shift, ensuring 30-year airframe service life. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding engine control units (ECUs) during alternator load dump events in 12 V/24 V vehicle electrical systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge shunt located at ECU power entry, activated within <5 ns to limit bus voltage to ≤58.1 V. Use Value: Eliminates need for series resistors or additional filtering - reduces BOM count while meeting ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b requirements. |
| Industrial 48 V DC Telecom Power | Railway Signaling Interface Protection |
Use Scenario: Securing 48 V DC backup power feeds in 5G base station remote radio units exposed to induced lightning surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary protection stage after gas discharge tube (GDT), clamping residual energy before it reaches PoE controllers and FPGAs. Use Value: 310 A IPP rating allows coordination with upstream GDTs having >1 kA rating - achieves staged protection per IEC 61643-21. | Use Scenario: Shielding track-side signaling interfaces (e.g., ETCS Level 1 balise readers) from traction current transients and electromagnetic coupling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS on RS-422/RS-485 data lines, mounted directly at connector to minimize stub inductance. Use Value: <5 ns response time prevents bit errors during 10/1000 μs surges up to 18 kW - maintains SIL-4 functional safety integrity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ36CA | 600 W PPP rating, 3.5 mm × 6.2 mm SMB package, RθJC ≈ 25 °C/W | Limited to single-stroke surges; unsuitable for DO-160 multi-stroke or IEC 61000-4-5 Class 4/5 | Select only for cost-sensitive consumer-grade 36 V bus protection where multi-event reliability is not required. |
| SMCJ36CA | 1500 W PPP rating, 7.1 mm × 6.2 mm SMC package, RθJC ≈ 12 °C/W | Supports moderate repetition rates but lacks AEC-Q101 qualification and DO-160 certification data | Use for industrial PLC I/O modules needing higher energy handling than SMBJ but without aerospace certification mandates. |
Compared with SMBJ36CA and SMCJ36CA, the MPLAD18KP36CA delivers 30× higher peak pulse power, 17× lower thermal resistance, and documented compliance with aviation and rail surge standards - making it the sole option for certified multi-stroke lightning protection in safety-critical platforms.
Availability
MPLAD18KP36CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aerospace avionics, automotive ECU power systems, and industrial 48 V telecom infrastructure requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and certified surge immunity.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP36CA 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 MPLAD18KP36CA belongs to Microsemi's high-power PLAD TVS family, engineered specifically for certified multi-stroke lightning protection in mission-critical platforms where failure is not an option.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of MPLAD18KP36CA at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP36CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 58.1 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current (IPP) of 310 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is measured at the device terminals and represents the worst-case overvoltage imposed on downstream circuitry during surge events. The MPLAD18KP36CA maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range of –55°C to +150°C.
Is MPLAD18KP36CA qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP36CA is qualified to AEC-Q101 for stress testing including temperature cycling, humidity, and mechanical shock - confirming suitability for under-hood automotive environments. It is explicitly rated for load dump protection in 12 V/24 V systems and supports ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b compliance when used with appropriate layout practices. The MPLAD18KP36CA also offers optional MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening for extended reliability validation.
Does MPLAD18KP36CA meet RTCA DO-160F lightning protection requirements?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP36CA is certified for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 lightning-induced transient testing, specifically Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) at Level 4. Its bidirectional architecture, <5 ns response time, and 18,000 W peak pulse power enable compliance with multi-stroke lightning standards required for commercial aircraft avionics. The MPLAD18KP36CA is listed in the official Microsemi DO-160 qualification matrix for devices up to 36 V VWM.
What is the thermal resistance and how should MPLAD18KP36CA be mounted for optimal cooling?
The MPLAD18KP36CA has a junction-to-case thermal resistance (RθJC) of 0.7 °C/W, achieved only when the metal base is soldered to a minimum 10 cm² copper pour or attached to an external heatsink using thermal interface material. Mounting must follow the recommended pad layout in RF01215 Rev B - insufficient copper area increases RθJA to 50 °C/W and risks thermal runaway during repetitive surges. The MPLAD18KP36CA's thermal design enables 71 W steady-state dissipation at TC = 100°C.
How does the bidirectional construction of MPLAD18KP36CA affect its circuit implementation?
The bidirectional construction of MPLAD18KP36CA allows symmetric surge suppression on AC-coupled or floating signal/power lines without regard to polarity - ideal for RS-485, CAN FD, or dual-polarity 28 V aircraft buses. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes, the MPLAD18KP36CA conducts equally in both directions once V(BR) is exceeded, eliminating the need for orientation verification during placement. Its cathode is the metal base, and the top surface serves as the anode terminal in either conduction mode.
MPLAD18KP36CA 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):
- 36V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 40V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 58.1V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 310A
- 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
MPLAD18KP36CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP36CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP36CA 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 MPLAD18KP36CA reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP36CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP36CA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPLAD18KP36CA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPLAD18KP36CA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP36CA?
MPLAD18KP36CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP36CA 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 MPLAD18KP36CA?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP36CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP36CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP36CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP36CA 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 MPLAD18KP36CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP36CA?
All MPLAD18KP36CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP36CA, 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 MPLAD18KP36CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP36CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MPLAD18KP36CA Tags

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