Microchip Technology MPLAD18KP43CA
- Part No.:
- MPLAD18KP43CA
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- Nonstandard SMD
- Datasheet:
-
MPLAD18KP43CA.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 43VWM 69.4VC PLAD
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,887
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Product details
Overview
MPLAD18KP43CA from Microsemi is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for high-energy surge protection in aerospace and automotive systems. It delivers 18,000 W peak pulse power at 10/1000 μs, clamps transients to ≤69.4 V at 260 A, and features a 43 V reverse standoff voltage (VWM) with ±5% breakdown tolerance (47.8–52.8 V). 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 MPLAD18KP43CA datasheet, MPLAD18KP43CA pinout, MPLAD18KP43CA application, or MPLAD18KP43CA equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability DC bus protection in avionics power distribution units, engine control modules, and rail-mounted industrial controllers where multi-stroke lightning immunity and low thermal resistance are critical.
Technical Context
The MPLAD18KP43CA operates as a silicon avalanche diode-based TVS, leveraging controlled breakdown behavior to shunt surge current away from sensitive circuitry. Its bidirectional construction enables symmetrical clamping for AC-coupled or floating signal lines, and its metal-base package provides direct thermal path to PCB copper, achieving RθJC = 0.7 °C/W.
It is rated for 100% surge testing per lot, supports IEC 61000-4-2 ESD (±30 kV contact), IEC 61000-4-4 EFT (4 kV), and passes RTCA DO-160F pin injection tests up to Level 4 (6.4/69 μs) - all verified under controlled case temperature conditions with derated PPP above 100°C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (PPP) | 18,000 W @ 10/1000 μs - sustains full-rated surge energy without degradation in single-event or low-duty-cycle (<0.05%) applications |
| Reverse Standoff Voltage (VWM) | 43 V - maximum continuous DC or peak AC voltage the device blocks before entering avalanche conduction |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | ≤69.4 V @ IPP = 260 A - limits downstream voltage stress during worst-case surge, enabling 75 V-rated ICs to survive |
| Breakdown Voltage (V(BR)) | 47.8–52.8 V @ I(BR) - tight 5% tolerance ensures predictable turn-on across production lots and temperature |
| Thermal Resistance (RθJC) | 0.7 °C/W - enables efficient heat transfer from junction to PCB copper pad, critical for sustained multi-pulse operation |
| Standby Current (ID) | ≤10 μA @ VWM - negligible leakage at operating voltage, preserving battery life and signal integrity in always-on systems |
| Surge Rating | IEC 61000-4-5 Class 1–5 (42 Ω source) - certified for secondary lightning protection in aircraft and rail infrastructure |
Pinout & Package
Package: Surface-mount PLAD (Power Low-profile Avalanche Diode), void-free UL94V-0 epoxy body with metal baseplate for thermal conduction. Dimensions: 12.32 × 10.54 × 3.68 mm (L × W × H), weight ≈1 g. Cathode terminal is the exposed metal base (bottom side); anode is top-side metallization.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Baseplate | Cathode (Bidirectional) | Primary thermal path and current return node; must be soldered to large copper pour for RθJC = 0.7 °C/W performance |
| Top-Side Metallization | Anode (Bidirectional) | High-current surge entry point; connects to protected line via short trace to minimize inductance |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping symmetry | Enables protection of AC signals, differential buses, or floating supplies without polarity constraints |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validates robustness for automotive powertrain and chassis electronics under temperature cycling, humidity, and mechanical shock |
| RTCA DO-160F Waveform 4 Level 4 compliance | Guarantees survivability against 6.4/69 μs pin-injection surges in airborne equipment up to 25°C ambient |
| 3σ lot norm screening on ID | Ensures <10 μA standby current across full production batch, eliminating outliers that could cause system leakage faults |
| MIL-PRF-19500 upscreening option | Supports high-reliability programs requiring hermeticity, extended temperature range, or radiation tolerance |
Applications
| Avionics Power Distribution Unit | Automotive Engine Control Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects 28 V DC bus inputs in airborne power management systems against lightning-induced transients per DO-160 Section 22. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge shunt device placed at board edge, clamping induced surges before they reach DC-DC converters and microcontrollers. Use Value: Enables compliance with RTCA DO-160F Level 4 pin injection and Class 5 lightning (42 Ω source), reducing need for redundant protection stages. | Use Scenario: Shields 12 V/24 V power rails in diesel engine control units from load dump and alternator transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-power TVS placed directly across battery input, absorbing >18 kW pulses without failure or parameter shift. Use Value: Achieves AEC-Q101 qualification and withstands 1500 A forward surge (IFSM), eliminating fuse coordination issues in harsh under-hood environments. |
| Railway Signaling Interface | Industrial Motor Drive DC Link |
Use Scenario: Safeguards Ethernet and RS-485 communication ports on trackside signaling controllers exposed to induced surges from nearby traction currents. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS on data lines, providing symmetrical clamping for ±15 V common-mode transients. Use Value: Meets IEC 61000-4-5 Class 3 (42 Ω) and ESD immunity per IEC 61000-4-2 (±30 kV), ensuring uptime in electromagnetic-heavy rail corridors. | Use Scenario: Protects IGBT gate drivers and bus voltage monitors in variable-frequency drives subjected to regenerative braking spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary clamp on 400–800 V DC link, limiting overvoltage during fast-switching events and fault clearing. Use Value: Delivers 69.4 V clamping at 260 A with <5 ns response, preventing false triggering of overvoltage protection circuits. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ43CA | 600 W PPP rating, 5.0 mm × 4.5 mm SMB package, RθJC ≈ 25 °C/W | Lower energy handling; suitable only for single-stroke, non-aviation-grade protection | Select when cost and board space constrain design, and surge duty cycle is strictly limited to <0.001% |
| SMCJ43CA | 1500 W PPP rating, 7.2 mm × 6.2 mm SMC package, RθJC ≈ 12 °C/W | Lacks RTCA DO-160F certification and AEC-Q101 qualification; not rated for multi-stroke lightning | Use for industrial controls where IEC 61000-4-5 Class 3 suffices and thermal budget allows higher junction temperature rise |
Compared with SMBJ43CA and SMCJ43CA, the MPLAD18KP43CA provides 30× and 12× higher peak pulse power respectively, validated multi-stroke capability per DO-160, and a thermally optimized metal-base package enabling reliable operation in high-temperature, high-duty-cycle environments typical of aerospace and heavy-duty automotive systems.
Availability
MPLAD18KP43CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for avionics power distribution, automotive engine control, and railway signaling applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and certified surge immunity.
Supply support for MPLAD18KP43CA 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, mixed-signal, and power solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The MPLAD18KP43CA belongs to Microsemi's PLAD family of high-power surface-mount TVS diodes, engineered specifically for multi-stroke lightning protection and automotive load dump suppression in mission-critical platforms.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the MPLAD18KP43CA at its rated peak pulse current?
The MPLAD18KP43CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 69.4 V at its rated peak impulse current (IPP) of 260 A under 10/1000 μs waveform conditions. This value is guaranteed across temperature and production lots, and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during a full-rated surge event. The low clamping ratio (VC/VWM ≈ 1.61) reflects optimized avalanche dynamics for minimal overvoltage stress.
Is the MPLAD18KP43CA qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP43CA is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its reliability for automotive powertrain and chassis electronics. It meets stringent requirements for temperature cycling, mechanical shock, and humidity exposure. Its 1500 A forward surge rating (IFSM) and 43 V standoff voltage make it suitable for 24 V system load dump protection in engine control modules and battery management systems.
Does the MPLAD18KP43CA meet RTCA DO-160 lightning standards?
Yes, the MPLAD18KP43CA is explicitly certified for RTCA DO-160F Section 22 lightning-induced transient testing. It achieves Level 4 for Waveform 4 (6.4/69 μs) and supports multi-stroke compliance per DO-160, making it appropriate for primary and secondary lightning protection in commercial and military aircraft power and signal interfaces.
How is thermal management implemented for the MPLAD18KP43CA?
The MPLAD18KP43CA uses a metal-base PLAD package where the cathode forms the exposed bottom plate, serving as the primary thermal conduction path. With a junction-to-case thermal resistance (RθJC) of 0.7 °C/W, effective heat dissipation requires soldering the baseplate to a minimum 25 mm² copper area on FR4 PCB using the recommended pad layout. This configuration maintains junction temperature within safe limits during repetitive surge events.
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in MPLAD18KP43CA?
The "CA" suffix in MPLAD18KP43CA denotes bidirectional construction - meaning the device provides symmetrical clamping for both positive and negative polarity transients. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., MPLAD18KP43A), the CA version has no polarity-sensitive mounting orientation and is used on AC-coupled lines, differential buses, or floating references where voltage reversals occur.
MPLAD18KP43CA 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):
- 43V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 47.8V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 69.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 260A
- 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
MPLAD18KP43CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPLAD18KP43CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPLAD18KP43CA 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 MPLAD18KP43CA reliable?
The price and inventory of MPLAD18KP43CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPLAD18KP43CA is usually 5 days.
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4.How is shipping managed for MPLAD18KP43CA?
MPLAD18KP43CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPLAD18KP43CA 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 MPLAD18KP43CA?
For technical support, including MPLAD18KP43CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPLAD18KP43CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPLAD18KP43CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPLAD18KP43CA 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 MPLAD18KP43CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPLAD18KP43CA?
All MPLAD18KP43CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPLAD18KP43CA, 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 MPLAD18KP43CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPLAD18KP43CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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